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Forage and feed country-style

MICHELLE JONES
Published March 12, 2004

Shoppers come in droves to the tin-roofed building at the edge of a horse pasture in rural Polk County.

Ednamay Wales' dream of an antique haven became a reality in 1970, and now her sons continue the legacy.

Antiques, including furniture from the 1800s, fill two of the buildings.

Through the years the Wales family has become known for the antique treasures they purchase abroad and locally.

In the Barn are armoires, chairs, beds, dressers, couches, buffets and chests in oak, pine and cherry.

"I think the prices are reasonable," says Jo Ann Jones, who comes from Riverview several times a year.

The Stable is a home decor and gift shop with both trendy and traditional items. Seasonal decorations are available, with Easter items now sprouting up.

Displays include stained glass windows and antique cut glass and decorator pieces from an earlier era.

A dock stretches out over a pond for a respite from shopping.

Lunch can be eaten inside the air-conditioned Back Porch or on a covered deck. Served in a picnic basket, many of the recipes come from Wales family recipes.

Newly added to the conglomerate is a garden shop with decorative outdoor accessories.

The Barn, the Stable and the Backporch Tearoom

Where: Lake Alfred. Take Interstate 4 east to Exit 48 (Highway 557). Travel 3 miles south toward Winter Haven. Building is on the right.

When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Lunch served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Open from the first Saturday in October to the last Saturday in May.

Cost: Free admittance, lunch is $7.99 for soup or salad, sandwich, beverage and dessert.

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