Professor of kinesiology, retired tennis coach and flea market vendor David Elliott has operated space at Judsonia’s Thackerland Flea Market for the last 28 years.

Elliott initially decided to get involved with Thackerland by his interest in buying, selling and trading sports cars.

Thackerland has become a destination for many students looking for unique dorm decorations, gifts and other items for many years.

Thackerland is located in Judsonia, Ark., and is a cluster of buildings, trailers and outdoor areas where vendors rent out booth space to sell merchandise.

Organized and operated by the Thacker family, space is rented out by vendors who provide a welcoming atmosphere for people looking for antique gifts and other merchandise.

“It’s a big family,” Elliott said. “I started out and I didn’t know hardly anyone there … I’ve met literally hundreds of people from all over the country; Harding students from everywhere, foreign countries and people traveling from different states who stop by.”

The relationships Elliott has built with his fellow vendors and customers are one of the biggest reasons he continues his vending at Thackerland.

“Every week you always look forward to seeing all the friendly faces,” Elliott said. “Sometimes you only see somebody once a year. But usually there’s a bond, and you remember them.”

Junior Jake Wells enjoys going to Thackerland not only to shop, but to visit with the unique personalities that sell there, like Elliott.

“The vendors love to chat and are quite interesting people,” Wells said. “One guy was telling me to tell all my friends to come. He said we don’t care if you buy anything, we just want to talk. I thought that was really neat.”

Elliott currently operates eight booths, and some of his merchandise includes sports and hunting equipment, ammunition, clothing, camping equipment and the occasional gold or silver item. Elliott said that as long as it’s “wholesome,” chances are he has it.

“It has been a pleasant relief from the pressure of teaching and coaching,” Elliott said. “It was a means of relieving stress, and it’s something I always look forward to, going out and seeing all the friendly faces.”