Celebrate your birthday party in a provo utah wedding event venue
Celebrate your birthday in our Provo, Utah Event Venue at Sparks Museum and Event Center
Sparks Museum and Event Center
Embrace the Golden Age for Your Birthday Bash at Sparks Museum & Event Center in Provo, Utah.
Looking for a unique venue to celebrate an adult birthday? The Sparks Museum & Event Center in Provo, Utah, offers a memorable experience that won’t dissapoint. This venue is more than just a space; it's a "golden era time capsule". With the many different wedding venues in Provo we know that choosing one can be overwhelming. At Sparks Museum and Event Center we focus on being more unique than all other wedding and event venues by our Petroliana museum that decorates the space.
Sparks Museum and Event Center
A Nostalgic Backdrop
Instead of a typical party, transport your guests to a "lively, nostalgic ride" surrounded by unique petroleum memorabilia. The museum's collection, a testament to Americana's golden age, provides a distinctive elegance with hundreds of Porcelain gas signs hung throughout. Three different antique cars are there for the car buffs, if you like planes we have one of those too.
Sparks Museum and Event Center
More Than Just a Museum
The Sparks Museum & Event Center isn't just for museum tours; it's a place to host various events. While known for weddings and quinceaneras, it's also an ideal location for birthday parties and corporate events and reunions.
Sparks Museum and Event Center
Sparky's Collection
Sparky, a passionate collector, has filled the museum with vintage signs, classic cars, and antique gas pumps. His love for preserving pieces of Americana is evident throughout the space, offering a "tangible link to a bygone era" You and your guests can enjoy the neon glow and nostalgic hum of these artifacts while celebrating your special day.
Sparks Museum and Event Venue
Creating Memories
The Sparks Museum & Event Center aims to turn special moments into joyous journeys. The venue encourages you to "embrace the past, fuel the present, and drive your dreams".
Sparks Museum and Event Center
Highlights of the Venue
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Unique Memorabilia: Petroleum memorabilia adds a distinctive elegance
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Diverse Collection: Antique cars, vintage signs, and gas pumps.
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P-51 Airplane: A museum favorite sits across the street on our outdoor building.
Sparks Museum and Event Center
Consider booking your adult birthday party at the Sparks Museum & Event Center for a celebration that blends history with festive fun. Inquire about booking your event to create a memorable birthday celebration.
Thank you for stopping by our blog! We hope that you will consider hiring a locally owned wedding venue for your big celebration. Locally owned wedding venues provide the best wedding experience, they tend to have little to no turnover, they support the local economy and they are part of the community. Choosing a locally owned wedding venue means the world to our small owned wedding venues. In an effort to support locally owned wedding venues, we will feature five small business wedding venues in each of our blogs. Find locally owned wedding venues in the wedding venue map on WeddingVenueOwners.com
Love Grove Estate,Catawba Falls Events,CHÂTEAU JOLI,All 4 One Farms,Mayberry Meadows,Blueberry Hill Wedding VenueLone Star Oaks,Topeka Social,Chapman Hill,The Ma Maison
10 stunning centerpiece ideas for your Utah County wedding
Creative Weddings start with you!
Choosing the perfect wedding centerpieces for your Utah County Wedding plays a crucial role in setting the tone and atmosphere of your reception. Whether you’re going for classic elegance, rustic charm, or a modern aesthetic, there are countless ways to make your tables shine. Here are 10 unique centerpiece ideas to inspire your wedding decor when planning for your Utah County Wedding.
1. Classic Floral Arrangements
The classic wedding flower arrangement
You can never go wrong with fresh flowers. Choose blooms that complement your wedding colors and season, arranged in elegant vases or low-profile bowls for a timeless and romantic look. Get flowers from local markets supporting the local farms that grow them you will find the flowers to be much fresher and last longer.
2. Vintage Lanterns
vintage lantern
For a touch of old-world charm, use decorative lanterns with LED candles or fairy lights inside. You can also surround them with greenery, flowers, or vintage books for added elegance. Sparks Museum and Event Center in Utah County is the perfect retro/ vintage space that has this asthetic and goes perfectly with the theme.
3. Floating Candles and Florals
A simple yet sophisticated idea is to place floating candles in glass vases filled with water and flower petals. This creates a dreamy, soft glow that enhances the ambiance.
4. Rustic Wooden Elements
Wooden base with a soft touch
Incorporate wooden slabs or crates as bases for your centerpieces. Pair them with mason jars, wildflowers, or eucalyptus for a rustic and nature-inspired look.
5. Geometric Terrariums
A Terrarium Taste
Modern and stylish, geometric terrariums filled with succulents, moss, or small floral arrangements make for unique and contemporary centerpieces.
6. Books and Vintage Decor
vintage bliss
For book lovers or a vintage-inspired wedding, stack classic novels and top them with candles, flowers, or decorative trinkets to create an intellectual and charming centerpiece. Add some vintage photos of family making not only a great centerpiece but a perfect conversation starter. Sparks Museum and Event Center is just the place to show off the vintage style while celebrating in this vintage venue.
7. Seasonal Fruit Displays
Citrus Centerpiece
Add a pop of color and freshness by incorporating fruits like lemons, oranges, or pomegranates into your centerpieces. These work beautifully for summer and fall weddings. Get an array of colors and place in a beautiful bowl making the table not only look beautiful but smell amazing too.
8. Personalized Photo Frames
Place framed photos of you and your partner on each table. You can include engagement photos, childhood pictures, or even fun facts about your relationship to make guests feel connected.
9. Hanging Greenery and Floral Hoops
green tree hanging
Instead of traditional tabletop centerpieces, opt for hanging floral hoops or greenery chandeliers above your tables. This adds a dramatic and elegant touch without cluttering the table.
10. Candlestick Clusters
Candlestick clusters
Mix and match different heights of candlesticks with elegant taper candles for a romantic and intimate setting. Use gold, silver, or rustic wood holders to match your theme.
Your wedding centerpieces should reflect your personality, style, and theme. Whether you go for timeless florals or modern geometric designs, these ideas will help create a breathtaking tablescape that your guests will love.
As advocates for small business wedding venue owners around the world, we sincerely hope that if you are searching for a wedding venue, you will choose local! In every article we publish, we shout out the best small business wedding venues.
How to start planning your wedding in Provo, utah
Celebrate with Marylin and Elvis at your wedding party!
Planning a Dream Wedding in Provo, Utah
Provo, Utah, with its stunning mountain views, historic charm, and vibrant community, is an incredible place to say "I do." Whether you're looking for a venue filled with character, top-tier catering, or excellent entertainment, Provo has it all. If you're planning a wedding in this beautiful city, here’s everything you need to know to create a truly unforgettable celebration.
Choosing the Perfect Venue: Sparks Museum and Event Center
Have your party on the inside of Sparks Museum
Finding the right venue is one of the most important parts of wedding planning. The Sparks Museum and Event Center offers a unique and historic setting that sets your wedding apart from traditional banquet halls. With its adaptable space, rich character, and customizable options, Sparks Museum allows you to bring your vision to life, whether you're going for a classic, vintage, or modern wedding theme. Unlike other venues, it gives you the flexibility to choose your own vendors, ensuring your wedding feels completely personal and tailored to your style. It has an indoor and outdoor option making it a great place to get wed outside and party inside.
Have your wedding on the outiside
Delicious Dining: The Best Caterers in Provo
Food is a major highlight of any wedding, and Provo has some outstanding catering options to ensure your guests have an unforgettable culinary experience.
summer salad
Marvelous Catering – Known for their diverse menu options and impeccable presentation, Marvelous Catering delivers high-quality dishes tailored to your wedding theme and guest preferences.
Magleby’s – A long-time favorite in Utah, Magleby’s offers elegant, flavorful dishes, from gourmet entrees to delicious desserts, making them a fantastic choice for an upscale wedding.
Brown Brothers Catering – Whether you're looking for classic comfort food or a refined dining experience, Brown Brothers provides customized catering to match your wedding style and guest expectations.
Don Juaquin- For a fun Mexican flavor a great option is Don Juaquin with authentic taste of Mexican street tacos
Pork tacos
Elevate the Celebration with Exceptional Bar Services
A great wedding celebration isn’t complete without a well-stocked bar and talented mixologists. Consider these top bar service providers in Provo:
Cheers and Swizzles – Experts in crafting signature cocktails that reflect your personal taste and wedding theme.
DRNK by Lux– Offers premium bar services with high-end cocktails, mocktails, and a sophisticated experience for your guests.
Copa – Known for their fun and creative drink selections, Copa’s bar service adds an extra layer of excitement to your wedding reception.
Mixed drinks make the party
Unforgettable Entertainment: DJ & Music Services
Music sets the tone for the entire evening, and a great DJ keeps the energy high while ensuring seamless transitions throughout your event. Randy from Rock the Mic is a top choice in Provo, bringing years of experience, an amazing playlist, and a knack for keeping guests entertained and on the dance floor. Looking for a fun Karaoke experience, they do that too!
Capturing the Moment: Wedding Photography
Your wedding day is filled with precious moments that deserve to be beautifully captured. Visual Storytelling is an exceptional choice for wedding photography in Provo, offering a documentary-style approach that captures genuine emotions, intimate moments, and stunning portraits that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Forever together
Planning a wedding in Provo, Utah, is an exciting journey, and with the right venue, catering, bar services, entertainment, and photography, your big day will be nothing short of magical. Whether you choose the Sparks Museum and Event Center for its historic charm or any of Provo’s top vendors for an unforgettable experience, your wedding will be a beautifully curated event filled with love, joy, and celebration.
Did you know…when you choose a locally owned wedding venue you are helping to develop and improve the local economy? It’s true, your locally owned wedding venues are small business owners who not only create hundreds of jobs for the local wedding industry every year, we actively support our local economy. Consider selecting a locally owned venue for your special day. Here's a shout out to our fellow locally owned wedding venues nationwide!
Harris Glen,Butler’s Courtyard,The 1860 Schulhaus, The 1860 Schulhaus Blog, The 1860 Schulhaus Contact,The Ironwood Barn at Von Erich Ranch, The Ironwood Barn at Von Erich Ranch Blog, The Ironwood Barn at Von Erich Ranch Contact,Heartland Farms Event Center, Heartland Farms Articles, Heartland Farms Contact Us
OUr space …Your experience in provo, Utah
sparks museum and event center retro/vintage space. Filled with nostalgic decor of petroliana and gas pumps from the past.
Fast Cars at Sparks Event Center
Have you ever dreamed of hosting an event that transports guests to another era? Whether it's the roaring '20s, the swinging '60s, or the funky '80s, creating a unique vintage and retro event can be a magical experience filled with nostalgia. The key to making your event truly special lies in the details—curating the right venue, such as Sparks Museum and Event Center in Provo, Utah. Décor, music, and activities that capture the essence of the past. Here’s how you can bring your retro dream to life.
1. Choosing the Perfect Vintage Venue
The right setting can make or break the vibe of your event. Look for spaces with historical charm—perhaps a speakeasy-style bar, an old movie theater, a retro diner, or a historic mansion. If an authentic vintage space isn’t available, choose a blank canvas venue and transform it with vintage furniture, signage, and props to set the tone. Sparks Museum and Event Center in Provo, Utah is filled with decor from the past. They have classic cars on display, gas pumps and petroliana signs throughout the space making it a perfect choice.
Flapper dress and beaded purse
2. Setting the Scene with Décor
Once you’ve secured the venue, it’s time to decorate! Think era-appropriate furniture, neon signs, vinyl records, antique mirrors, and nostalgic posters. Vintage suitcases, typewriters, rotary phones, and jukeboxes can add to the ambiance. Layering textures like velvet, lace, or leather will enhance the retro feel, while a color palette inspired by the era will bring everything together.
3. Dressing the Part
Encourage guests to dress according to the era you’ve chosen. Whether it’s flapper dresses and suspenders for a Gatsby-style gathering, leather jackets and poodle skirts for a ’50s rock ‘n’ roll party, or bold neon outfits for an ’80s throwback, attire plays a big role in immersing guests in the experience.
4. Curating the Ultimate Playlist
Music is the heartbeat of any retro event. Create a playlist that reflects the chosen decade—jazz and swing for the ’20s, rock ‘n’ roll for the ’50s, disco for the ’70s, or synth-pop for the ’80s. If possible, hire a live band or a DJ who specializes in vintage tunes to keep the energy alive.
Wurlitzer antique jute box
5. Offering Classic Food & Drinks
A vintage event isn’t complete without a menu that matches the theme. Classic cocktails like old fashioneds, sidecars, or martinis pair beautifully with retro-inspired appetizers. Think of dishes like deviled eggs, shrimp cocktails, or diner-style milkshakes to add authenticity.
diner style milkshake
6. Incorporating Nostalgic Activities
To make your event interactive and unforgettable, add activities that reflect the era. Consider a swing dance competition, a classic movie screening, a vinyl listening station, or even a vintage photo booth with era-specific props. If your event has a ‘70s or ‘80s theme, arcade games and karaoke can be a big hit.
7. Capturing the Moment
To preserve the nostalgia, hire a photographer or use vintage-inspired Polaroid cameras to let guests take home memories. A retro-themed event hashtag can also encourage guests to share their experiences on social media.
Instant photographs
8. Sending Guests Home with a Retro Memento
As a final touch, give your guests a small keepsake to remember the night—personalized vinyl records, mini jukebox keychains, custom matchboxes, or vintage postcards make great parting gifts that align with your event’s theme. With many venues to choose from look for something that sets your event apart from the rest. Sparks Museum and Event Center in Provo has done that for you.
The gift of a vinyl record
Special thanks to these locally owned wedding venues from around the country who continue to inspire us and support us daily!
Ballenger Bridge Palafax Wharf Waterfront-polebarnchic.com-Madison Green Country Club-Island View Waterfront
Choosing the Perfect Vendors for Your Spring Event at Sparks museum and event center in provo, Utah
Dare to Dream with the red ferrari and the 2025 lamborgini. Lights and people partying and enjoying Sparks Museum and Event Center.
Spring is a magical time to host an event at Sparks Museum and Event Center! With the trees filled with leaves, warmer weather, and longer daylight hours, spring events are all about having a great party. However, selecting the right vendors is crucial to bringing your vision to life. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best vendors for a seamless and unforgettable event.
1. Caterers: Fresh, Seasonal, and Crowd-Pleasing
Food is one of the highlights of any event, and spring is the perfect time to incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients into your menu. When selecting a caterer:
Look for licensed and insured vendors who can meet our venue requirements.
Opt for light, refreshing, and seasonal dishes like garden-fresh salads, fruit platters, and grilled proteins. Magelby’s catering is a great choice when looking for fresh.
If alcohol will be served, ensure your caterer is familiar with our no outside alcohol policy and works with a bartender from our preferred vendor list. Sparks works with many options some of these are local in Utah County such as Cheers and Swizzels
Request tasting sessions to ensure their menu fits your event theme. Try out Browns Brothers Catering.
garden deliciousness
2. Floral & Décor: Enhancing the Spring Aesthetic
Spring provides a naturally beautiful setting, and the right florist can enhance your event’s aesthetic with:
Seasonal flowers like tulips, peonies, and hydrangeas that thrive in spring weather.
Soft, natural color palettes that match the freshness of the season.
Sustainable and local florists who can provide eco-friendly décor solutions.
Compliance with our no open flames, confetti, or loose glitter policies to ensure easy cleanup.
Splash of spring
3. Music & Entertainment: Setting the Mood
Whether you’re hosting a wedding, corporate gathering, or special celebration, music plays a major role in setting the tone. When hiring a DJ or live band:
Choose a vendor that you trust and has good reviews to avoid last-minute complications.
Ensure they understand our music end-time policy, as all music must end before the cleanup begins.
For a more intimate ambiance, consider acoustic musicians or string quartets, perfect for a spring event.
4. Photography & Videography: Capturing the Moment
Your spring event will be filled with picturesque moments that deserve to be captured professionally. When selecting a photographer or videographer:
Make sure they have experience with natural light photography, as spring daylight offers great opportunities for outdoor shots.
Choose a vendor who is comfortable working with our event center’s unique backdrop and lighting setup such as Visual Storytelling.
Check if they allow the venue to use selected event photos for marketing purposes, unless you opt out in writing.
Ensure they comply with venue policies, such as no boudoir or nude photography.
5. Bar Service: Licensed & Responsible
If alcohol is part of your celebration, selecting a qualified bar service is essential. At Sparks Museum and Event Center:
shaken not stirred
Bar services must be selected from our preferred vendor list, ensuring they have proper liquor liability insurance.
No outside alcohol is allowed, and all alcohol must be served from behind the bar.
All bartenders must follow our no shots and no underage drinking policies to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.
Some of our preferred vendors are DRNK ,COPA , and Cheers and Swizzels.
6. Event Planners & Coordinators: Stress-Free Planning
A great event planner or coordinator can make a world of difference in keeping everything on track.
Choose a seasoned professional with experience in organizing spring events such as Kenzie Events.
Ensure they are familiar with our venue’s policies, including vendor access times and cleanup responsibilities.
Opt for someone who can coordinate vendor setup and breakdown while keeping your timeline on schedule.
Final Tips for a Seamless Event
Book vendors early – Spring is a popular season, and top vendors fill their schedules quickly.
Communicate clearly – Ensure all vendors understand Sparks Museum and Event Center’s rules on setup, cleanup, and prohibited items.
Check for insurance – Every vendor should provide proof of insurance to protect your event from liability issues.
Enjoy the day! – Once your vendors are in place, relax and enjoy your beautiful spring event.
Thank you for stopping by our blog! We hope that you will consider hiring a locally owned wedding venue for your big celebration. Locally owned wedding venues provide the best wedding experience, they tend to have little to no turnover, they support the local economy and they are part of the community. Choosing a locally owned wedding venue means the world to our small owned wedding venues. In an effort to support locally owned wedding venues, we will feature five small business wedding venues in each of our blogs.
Cornerstone Ranch Events Center, SpringHaus Farm, Adler Ranch,Cakes ROCK, The Venue @ 112,Vista West Ranch
What to consider before writing a review for your wedding and event venue in utah county
Creating a google review
Typing your google review
There is more that goes into a review than we often think. A quick 1 star or 5 star review does not tell the business what they could improve upon nor what they are doing great. Here are some things to think about when you go to give that review.
Does your review make a difference?
Have you considered who you are actually reviewing when you review a wedding event space?
Do you know if the event center is separate from the vendors they may be using or are those vendors the choice of the person who rented the space such as the wedding party?
Reviews are what can make a company thrive. If a wedding event space or any venue is up for your review take the time to understand what the venue has control of. Often like in the case of Sparks Museum and Event Center the venue allows the wedding couple to choose vendors of their choice. Those vendors might be caterers, a flower company, bands, DJs, or a bar service. The venue is not to be reviewed based upon how well you like the food or if the the DJ played the kind of music you jive with. Those reviews should be given to each individual vendor. The venue should be strictly rated on venue service, and the space itself. Did the venue do what they agreed to?
Too often wedding venues are rated on vendors which they have no control over. That is not the venues choice. Just a good reminder to understand who is in charge of what when that review goes out.
Reviews do make a big difference when others are looking at the wedding venues reviews. Make sure you understand this and not only fill in those magic stars but write what the wedding venue did well and what you liked inside the space or outside the space. Be specific as this makes it much easier for others reading to see if they may want or not want to check out the space and decide for themselves if they want to book.
Wedding Venues love reviews and would love to have yours!
Thank you for stopping by our blog! We hope that you will consider hiring a locally owned wedding venue for your big celebration. Locally owned wedding venues provide the best wedding experience, they tend to have little to no turnover, they support the local economy and they are part of the community. Choosing a locally owned wedding venue means the world to our small owned wedding venues. In an effort to support locally owned wedding venues, we will feature five small business wedding venues in each of our blogs.
Main Street Wedding and Event Venue
how to choose the Perfect venue for your quinceanera: a perfect guide
Glitter high heal shoes for quinceanera with a beaded and sequin dress
A quinceañera is more than just a celebration; it’s a milestone event that honors a young girl’s transition into womanhood. This special occasion is often filled with family, friends, and meaningful traditions. Choosing the right venue is crucial in creating an unforgettable experience that reflects your vision and accommodates your guests. Some things you should consider when selecting a venue for your quinceañera.
1. Guest Capacity
One of the first things to consider is the number of guests. Quinceañeras typically range from a small intimate gatherings all the way to a large celebrations. Before hand make a list of everyone you’d like to invite, including family, friends, and any special guests. Make sure that the venue can comfortably accommodate your expected number of guests, with enough space for mingling, dining, and dancing.
2. Alcohol Laws
If you plan to serve alcohol at your quinceañera, familiarize yourself with local alcohol laws. Some venues may have restrictions or may require you to obtain a special permit. Additionally, consider whether you want to hire a bartender or if the venue has an alcohol service included. It’s also important o ensure that all guests are of legal drinking age and that there are safe transportation options available for those who may indulge.
3. Facilities: Bathrooms, Tables, and Chairs
Check the availability and cleanliness of restrooms in the venue. This is an often-overlooked aspect that can significantly affect your guests’ comfort. More bathrooms means less lines and more time to celebrate.
Additionally, determine if the venue provides tables and chairs. Some venues offer these as part of their package, while others may require you to rent or bring your own. Consider the layout of the tables to facilitate the best use of your space to eat and mingle as well as leaving plenty of space for the dance floor. You also want to consider if the venue supplies the linens.
4. Audio-Visual System
A great AV system is vital. Whether you’re hiring a DJ, a live band, or plan to use a microphone for speeches, ensure the venue provides the necessary sound system. Ask about the technical capabilities of the venue and do a soundcheck prior to your event to avoid any last-minute issues.
5. Ample Parking
Convenient parking can be a significant advantage for your guests. Ensure the venue has a sizable parking lot or is located near public transportation options. If parking is limited, consider arrangements for nearby parking or shuttle services to make it easy for everyone to attend.
6. Decor and Ambiance
The venue's decor and overall ambiance can set the tone for your celebration. Consider whether the venue matches your desired theme and color scheme. Some venues may offer packages that include decorations, while others may allow you to bring your own. Think about how you can personalize the space to make it uniquely yours while staying within budget.
7. Cost Considerations
When searching for the ideal venue, keep your budget in mind. Venue costs can vary widely based on location, capacity, and amenities. Consider what’s included in the rental fee—some venues may offer all-inclusive packages that cover everything from catering to decor, while others may charge separately for each component.
Why Choosing the Right Venue is Important
A quinceañera is a celebration of culture, family, and personal growth, making the venue an important part of this special occasion. The right venue will not only accommodate your needs and preferences but also enhance the overall experience for you and your guests. Carefully selecting a venue helps create lasting memories and will ensure that your celebration reflects your unique personality and style.
With all of that in mind, we at Sparks Musuem and Event Center will take the time to consider all aspects of a of what you need to plan a seamless and joyous quinceañera celebration. From guest capacity to ambiance, every detail matters. By choosing a venue thoughtfully, you set the stage for an unforgettable experience that honors this significant moment in a young girl’s life. These are some of the things to consider when choosing your venue for your Quinceanera. Happy planning!
Fast Cars in our Retro Space right in Provo, utah
Lamborghini on display donated by Lamborghini for the evening.
Cars parked outside Sparks Museum and Event Center
Beautiful Cars on display for our Charity Auction held for CIRF (Children’s International RescueFoundation) was a huge success. Everyone loved looking at these beautiful cars under the lights of Sparks Museum in Provo , Utah. This foundation does amazing works to rescue children who have been trafficked. We are so grateful for the team who does work to save these children.
the sparks sign
Sparks
This sign was made in 1965 to go on a 48 unit apartment building in Provo that Sparky and his father built. This sign was on there along with the name Roman Gardens. When the building was sold they kept the Sparks sign and hung it in the garage. We, of course had to add the sign (since it is our name) to the collection.
sparkys hamburger (Copy)
Sparkys Hamburger Sign
Sparky’s Hamburger sign came from a picker friend in Joplin who saw it while pickin and knew Sparky had to have it. He bought it for him and let him figure out where to put it. Thats the thing about making friends that are “pickers” they look out for each other when those friendships are made and stay in contact seeing how each other are doing. I as the daughter of Sparky have been in the car many times as he will call up a “picker” friend to just see how they are doing and how they are feeling. What is happening whats new and what is the recent hot item out in the collectors world of oil and gas.
Its all about the story
Sparky loves his family and loves his signs:)
Sparky learned a long time ago it is not often about the currency. Many collectors start off saying the do not want to sell the wanted treasure until…. the right thing is offered and then game on. Many collections are priceless to the owner and are thought of as a treasure not to be bought. This is where the fun begins and negotiations take place. Most owners don’t even know there is something other than cash that will entice them so creativity is a huge part of the fun. Unfortunately auction houses entered the game and almost gone are the days of negotiating or trading . Makes it so the stories are gone and it is not as fun as it once was. Sparky is all about the hunt, the game, the stories, the new friends and yes about finally getting the sign.
The man behind the Mue
It all begins with an idea.
The seeds of the collection at Sparks Museum and Event Center were sewn in the Summer of 1957 as Sparky (the creator) went with his friend Todd Roberts, on a trip thru old ghost towns in Nevada and found a very nice original 1929 Model A Ford pickup that he bought for $25 . They tied it to the back bumper of his 49 oldsmobile and towed it all the way over the mountains back to Bel Air where he lived and began restoration on it while still in high school. He sold it before he finished and has always been sorry. Always a dreamer and creator even int the 50s he had the eye to collect and to restore. He loved old things then and loves them even more now.
In 1979 he bought an Erskine in Helper, Utah and that spouted those seeds again . That car he restored when I was a child about 10 years old. I remember him spending hours upon hours on it. He was in need of the parts to get it all back together and would drive all over, becoming what now days is called a “picker” as that was the only way to find parts. There was no internet only your car and lots of farmland with what to many would deem as junk piles. However he would see that so called junk and find the treasure part he had been in search of. Picking was the very best source.
He was a super picker and hauled huge loads of awesome stuff home from every trip he took. Back then the signs and gas pumps he saw he thought of as “junk” The exception was the old visible gas pumps. He did haul a few of those home and restored one as a Texaco and put it in front our home when I was young. We now have that pump in our collection at Sparks Museum and Event Center . This pump is located outside across the street in front of Lakeside Storage along with two signs he picked up. The Gargoil Mobile sign and the Willis Knight sign.