In my humble Black-local Chicagoan opinion, and in honor of Juneteenth, I would like to say a few things… I believe that any antique dealer who houses, buys, or sells Black Americana in 2025 without properly researching and acknowledging their history should be ashamed of themselves. These objects are a nauseating reminder of how white Americans taunted and made light of the dehumanization, torture, and oppression of African Americans for the last 400+ years. Not taking the time to research the impact these relics have on your fellow community members, handle them with compassion for said community members, nor making an effort to educate patrons on the weight of their existence is what is so shameful. No matter how sweet, relatively well meaning, or perceivably honest of a business owner you may be, your unwillingness to take a rightly offended patron’s criticism via review to heart is deplorable. Take a step back, reflect on how you would feel if YOU were a Black person stumbling upon racist caricatures with clown-like exaggerated features who’s only purpose was to add insult to immense injury by humiliating their great great grandparents while they suffered. How would you feel, ma’am? In a world where apathy and selfishness prevails, strive to be the difference. I pray that after you read this review you decide to take the time to care about this issue. Take the time to listen and learn. Take the time to change. Take the time to find empathy for your neighbors and...
Read moreChicago Antique Hidden Gem!!!!
I came across Beyond Grandma's House while exploring the area's shops and was pleasantly surprised. Nestled inconspicuously downstairs in a warehouse type building, its basement locale makes the experience fun The owners welcomed my dad, sister, and I warmly and offered free coffee while showing us around the impressively curated 8,000 sq ft space. They come across as true antiquing enthusiasts, offering little histories behind meaningful finds as we browsed the varying collections.
There’s simply an astounding diversity spanning furniture, glassware, clothing, jewelry - you name it. Items appear thoughtfully staged almost transporting you back through time rather than just a static display. Makes perusing feel akin to raiding Grandma’s packed attic vs walking through an uptight museum, if your grandma had impeccable taste.
Beyond the sheer scope, prices felt surprisingly reasonable and inviting considering the uniqueness many pieces offer. I fully intend on returning to uncover a coveted conversation-starting addition for my own space after becoming smitten with an era-appropriate accessory.
If you appreciate vintage goods from both aesthetic and historical perspectives, Beyond Grandma’s House deserves a visit. Just don't be surprised when you lose track of time once transported into their curatorial grandmother's attic passion project! It's an effortless...
Read moreAs an avid antique collector, always on the lookout for unique pieces with a story to tell. So when I stumbled upon a hidden treasure shop called Beyond Grandmas House Vintage, i knew I had hit the jackpot.
Upon entering the shop, I was greeted by the warm smile of the owner, Mary Jo. As she browsed the eclectic selection of antiques, i struck up a conversation with Mary Jo about the history behind some of the items.
Mary Jo was a wealth of knowledge about the past, regaling me with stories about the people who once owned the items in the shop. I was mesmerized by the tales of the lives of those who had come before her and the rich history behind each piece.
As I perused the shop, i stumbled upon a beautiful antique vase that caught my eye. Mary Jo saw my interest and shared the fascinating history behind the vase, which had been passed down through several generations of a wealthy family.
With my newfound knowledge and appreciation for the past, I left the shop with my new treasure and a newfound respect for the beauty and richness of history. I knew that Beyond Grandmas House Vintage and Mary Jo would be my new go-to destination for all my...
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