Our storefront, the 1874 Williams Building, on historic Third Street Southwest, Rochester, MN. We carry a general line of antiques, specializing in lighting, estate jewelry, historic documents and photos, and "the unusual." We provide appraisals, marketing advice, a complete auction/estate sale service and consultation on historic lighting restoration projects.
Services
We buy, restore and sell vintage lighting of all styles and periods: whale oil table lamps, gas ceiling fixtures and wall sconces, combination gas and electric ceiling fixtures and wall sconces, kerosene ceiling fixtures and table lamps, railroad lighting and a variety of lighting from the Arts and Crafts/Mission and Art Deco periods.
Note: This multi-party auction could be the most historically-important auction yet in this Mayo Clinic community, offering many personal articles from the families of Dr. William J. Mayo (1861-1939), his son-in-law Dr. Donald C. Balfour (1882-1963) and grandson-in-law Dr. H.F. "Fred" Helmholz (1911-2012), including works of art, furniture, silver and books (incl. 2 volumes w/ bookplates from the Mayo paddlewheeler S.S. Oronoco); also offered are original works of art by Dr. Hugh Butt (1910-2008), the last surviving physician to have worked with the Mayo brothers, as well as pieces of contemporary art from his personal collection, items from the lifetime collection of Mr. & Mrs. Ken Doty of West Concord, MN., & the estate of Roy Watson of Rochester.
Reviews (8)
April Moran
Apr 20, 2022
Mr. Nelson
May 03, 2021
Sue Newshutz
Jan 31, 2021
MJLanzend
Jun 14, 2018
Reviewers who have given John Kruesel's a low rating appear to value efficiency and standardization over a unique, eclectic, and enlightening shopping experience. The regular staff members at John Kruesel's are thoughtful and big-hearted. Those who approach them with an inquisitive mind and a sense of humor will leave richer than they entered. Philosophical conversations arise frequently on these grounds, and open-minded first-time visitors become regular customers and friends. John Kruesel's also features hard-to-find lighting paraphernalia and sundries at reasonable prices. There are few stores like this left, and I strongly suggest a visit when you are in town.
Becca Nelson
Apr 24, 2018
Please don't pay any attention to the previous negative comments. The owner of this store is a wealth of knowledge, plus he has a wonderful sense of humor. If you're looking for a specific piece, just ask, he just might have it for you. (He has a lot of inventory that isn't displayed in the store) His hours are a bit unconventional, but just give him a call and he will work with you. If you're looking for period lighting or "old house stuff, " this is a place that you need to visit!
Drew LittleMountain
Apr 13, 2017
Kyle Craig
Dec 28, 2016
So far I'm 0 for 2 on even being able to go in the store. Went on a Sunday and they were closed which is nothing out of the ordinary in downtown Rochester. Went the very next day to find they are closed on Mondays as well. Took a closer look to find they are in fact only open for a grand total of 20 hours per week. Oh yeah, and also they might be open "by chance" if you get lucky as it says in the front window. This must be more of a hobby for whomever owns the store.
Dad Davis
Mar 14, 2016
