Our story
Two generations of odd, rare, and wonderful things
What started as one man's passion for antique music machines has grown into Powell's oldest and largest antique mall.
The duke of the antique music machines
The story of the Liberty Antique Mall began in 1968, when Harold Freiheit opened a small shop called Musik Mecanique in Columbus's Clintonville neighborhood. Driven by his passion for unusual antiques — and especially antique music machines — Harold spent decades buying, selling, restoring, and sharing the remarkable machines he loved.
Local publications dubbed Harold "the duke of the antique music machines." His shop was filled with nickelodeons, orchestrions, player pianos, band organs, and other mechanical musical wonders, drawing visitors from across central Ohio who came just to see and hear them play.
From small shop to antique mall
Over the years, the business grew and eventually moved to Powell. There, through a partnership with his son, Harold's little Musik Mecanique evolved into what became the Powell Liberty Antique Mall — carrying forward his love of unusual finds, fascinating objects, and antiques with a story to tell.
"The more unique and odd, the better!"
The mall today
Today the mall fills a red-sided landmark on North Liberty Street in downtown Powell. Dozens of independent dealers rent booths, wall space, and showcases, and together they stock one of the most varied selections of antiques, vintage, retro, mid-century, everyday, and holiday items in central Ohio.
Whether you are expanding a collection, starting one, or simply want to add some outrageous flavor to your home, we can help. And if you are looking for something specific, let us know — chances are we have it, or we can help you track it down.

Milestones
A timeline
- 1968
Harold Freiheit opens Musik Mecanique in Clintonville, specializing in antique music machines.
- 1991
Harold partners with his son Chris, re-locates to historic downtown Powell, re-names the business and grows into a multi-dealer antique mall.
- Today
Chris Freiheit runs the mall with dozens of dealers, new inventory every week, and booth rental rates that are still among the most competitive anywhere.
Do you have a story or photo from the mall's early days? We'd love to hear it — get in touch.
Take a look around
Video tour of the mall
Get a feel for the rooms, the booths, and the showcases before you visit.
