Ramblin’ Roads and Rusty Treasures
If you take a cruise down South Brooks Street in Brazoria, you might just hear the cheerful sound of laughter, the clinking of vintage glass, and the unmistakable charm of Ramblin Rose Antiques. Behind it all stands Romelle Turner, known by locals as the Junkin’ Queen — or, as some affectionately call her, the Junkin’ Jewel.
This November marks 12 years in business for Ramblin Rose Antiques — and a special personal celebration, too. November 16th, the store’s anniversary, also happens to be Romelle’s birthday. Something that started small has grown into not just a local business, but a must-stop destination in Brazoria; it’s an experience to be had.
A Love Story in Junk and Jewels
Romelle’s story is as charming as the pieces she sells. Before she was the queen of antiques, she was a diamond consultant. “I used to sell diamonds, so I was a Zale’s diamond consultant,” she said. “I was their number one for many years, but I left to start antiques and I’ve loved it ever since,”
But everything changed when she met her husband, a fellow treasure hunter with a knack for fixing up old finds.
She always had a love for the unique and antique.
“It all came about when I married my husband, who happened to be selling junk and jewels,” Turner said. “I met him and fell into selling antiques, and that became my niche.”
For over 30 years, together, they discovered that love and “junkin’” make a perfect match.
From garage sales to estate sales, they’re always on the hunt for the next lost treasure.
Junkin Journeys
This fall, the couple took their passion on the road — a three-week junkin’ adventure through seven different states. From dusty barns and estate sales to ziplining in Arkansas and packing and stacking in Pennsylvania. Their journey was all about discovering the unique and bringing it back home to their loyal customers.
Their truck returned to Brazoria overflowing with vintage finds, farmhouse treasures, and timeless pieces. They have plenty of new finds to be revealed soon at all of their locations. In addition to their storefront in Brazoria, they have a growing presence at The Hoard Antique Market, located inside the Brazos Mall in Lake Jackson. The Ramblin Rose Antiques now boasts two vendor booths at The Hoard, each brimming with the same warmth, charm, and ever-changing inventory that customers have come to love.
The Man Behind the Magic
While Romelle curates the front-of-house charm, Ray Turner brings a touch of rugged nostalgia to the mix. Known as the muscle and the mechanic of the operation, Ray is the one who fixes, restores, and hauls in the many pieces that fill Ramblin Rose Antiques and their vendor booths. “People also call me Mr. Romelle,” he laughed.
But Ray doesn’t just work behind the scenes; he’s carved out his own space in the world of antiques with his man cave–inspired booth, featuring vintage signs, gas station memorabilia, and industrial relics that catch the eye of collectors and casual shoppers alike.
It’s a space that reflects Ray’s personality: practical, hardworking, and full of character. His knack for restoration and his dedication to keeping things moving — literally and figuratively — have become essential to the Ramblin Rose story.
Always Something New — and a Whole Lot of Heart
Step inside Ramblin Rose Antiques, and you’ll find a space that’s constantly changing. One week it might be farmhouse primitives and enamelware, the next week, vintage holiday décor and shabby chic furniture.
“Nothing stays the same for long,” Romelle says with a laugh. “That’s what makes it fun — you can come in every week and see something completely new.”
This holiday season, shoppers can also look forward to Romelle’s Ball Draw Game, a beloved tradition where customers draw for discounts and prizes. “It’s just a fun way to give back and spread some cheer,” she says.
The Turners will also be part of Angleton Market Days on November 15th and 16th at the Brazoria County Fairgrounds, where they will share their finds and connect with fellow vendors and antique lovers.
After 12 years of hard work, laughter, and countless road miles, Romelle and Ray are still doing what they love most: traveling, junkin’, and bringing the joy of discovery to their customers.
In a world where trends come and go, Ramblin Rose Antiques stands as a testament to the power of passion, partnership, and small-town spirit — a true jewel in Brazoria’s crown.
Ramblin Rose Antiques
1019 South Brooks St., Brazoria, TX
Open Thursday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Facebook: @RamblinRose.RomelleTurner