Parker’s Imaginarium opens on downtown Broadway

1983

GREENVILLE – Friday afternoon community members gathered for the ribbon cutting of the newly opened and unique downtown Broadway store, Parker’s Imaginarium. 

“Thank you guys for investing in our community and bringing all of these fun memories back.,” said Rachel Neal, President of Darke County Chamber. 

Matthew and Stephanie Parker are the idea starters and owners behind this fun and nostalgic store. They shared their excitement about their new store and their anticipation of sharing pop culture history.

They moved back to Greenville where they previously lived in Xenia. Matthew shared that he was a collector of mostly monster and horror toys and has a big passion for them.

Route 68, is a known toy store in Xenia and is where Mattew began his collection. He started working at the shop as well and became friendly with the owners, Rob and Danielle Eldridge as they became mentors for him. 

He shared that there is a Toy Store Map, that the owners of Route 68, created. The map contains markings of all the toy stores in Ohio.  

“There’s a cluster in Dayton, Cincinnati, Columbus and Cleveland. But there’s nothing here in Greenville,” said the Parkers. “There’s nothing like that here and we wanted to bring the joy of collectibles here.”

Along with vintage and collectible toys that will bring back memories from your childhood, you will also come across beautiful handmade jewelry.

“I’ve been making jewelry ever since high school. I used to work in a shop and she taught me how to make it. I’ve always had a passion for making jewelry and art,” said Stephanie. 

The Parkers shared that they look forward to being involved in the community and being back in the community. They’re excited to share their joys with the community as well.