Midwestern Mentone

by Haiden Hibbert | photos by Sue Pais

Mentone was founded in 1882 and is a place that offers a splash of urban amenities among loads of rural charm. Known as “The Egg Basket of the Midwest,” Mentone has a long history (140 years!) of commercially-produced eggs distributed throughout the country. To celebrate that history, in downtown Mentone stands a 3,000-pound concrete egg. The concrete statue is just one way Mentone celebrates its legacy of commercial egg production; they also host the annual Mentone Egg Festival every summer. This year's family-friendly event took place on June 3-5, and featured lots of entertainment including a car, truck, motorcycle, and tractor show. There was also a parade, flea market, and activities for kids. From the ‘cutest baby’ contests to the Miss Mentone Pageant, there are big celebrations in the small Mentone community.

Mentone may be home to only a few banks, doctors, and churches, but they’ve got some must-visit local businesses, including Java Jacks, Pete & Freddy’s, Teels Family Restaurant, Little Shop in the Woods, and the Lawrence D. Bell Aircraft Museum.

Java Jacks Coffee House, 111 E. Main St. - This quaint coffee shop is exactly what you’d want out of a small town, family-owned business. Java Jacks was started by a man named Jack, who runs the shop with his wife. They’ve got all the classic coffees, teas,

Lawrence D. Bell Aircraft Museum

and bakery treats, as well as a full menu of breakfast and lunch options— from biscuits and gravy to grilled cheese. If you swing by, make sure to bring cash. Lawrence D. Bell Aircraft Museum, 210 S. Oak St. - This local museum is a must-visit spot in Mentone. It's open on Sundays throughout the summer from June to September, from 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. It's named after Mentone resident, American industrialist, and founder of Bell Aircraft Corporation. Bell provided extraordinary contributions to the science of flight. The museum shares about these contributions and showcases a variety of aircraft including artifacts from World War II.

Pete & Freddy’s Pages Aplenty Bookstore, 109 E. Main St. - This charming, women-led bookstore sells gently used and new books. It was opened by two sisters back in 2009, and has been a local favorite ever since.

Teels Family Restaurant, 108 N. Main St. - Teels is a family-style restaurant that serves generous portions. It’s beloved by Mentone residents and visitors alike, and busily serves both breakfast and lunch. Their current hours are from 6 a.m.-3 p.m. Little Shop in the Woods, 10003 W. 200 S. - This Mentone staple is an antique store that sells beautiful vintage goods. From jewelry to dolls to clothing to glassware, there’s a little something for everyone at Little Shop in the Woods.

This small town is full of history and charm. From tree-lined residential streets, a wall mural depicting the town’s roots, its annual festival, local shops, and close-knit community, there are hidden gems ready to be experienced throughout the rural town of Mentone.