Portage Park's Ecclection Keeps the Spirit of a Northwest Side Legend Alive — With a Quirky New Twist

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Portage Park · April 2, 2026

There's a one-of-a-kind treasure hunt happening on Irving Park Road, and Portage Park neighbors are in for a treat. Ecclection, the funky resale shop at 6059 W. Irving Park Road run by owner Julie Alleyne, has been quietly filling its shelves with a remarkable collection: inventory sourced directly from the closing warehouse sale of American Science & Surplus, the beloved novelty shop that was a Northwest Side institution for decades before closing its Park Ridge location last fall. Alleyne, a Belmont Cragin resident who used to bring her own kids to American Science & Surplus, made trip after trip to the warehouse — even renting a mini U-Haul at one point — to rescue as much of the iconic shop's quirky merchandise as she could. Now, that same spirit of wonder lives on at Ecclection.

But Alleyne isn't stopping there. She's rolling out hand-drawn signs in the style American Science & Surplus was known for, and has announced monthly Artist Appreciation Nights every third Thursday from 6–9 p.m., featuring local artists who sell their work at the shop, plus snacks and wine. She's even reserving shelf space for local students to sell their art — making Ecclection not just a shop, but a genuine community hub. The store, which opened in 2023, already offers a spin-the-wheel prize for shoppers spending over $25, making every visit an experience.

Head over to Ecclection at 6059 W. Irving Park Road — open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. — and keep an eye out for the next Artist Appreciation Night. Portage Park's creative spirit has found a new home!

Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/02/24/miss-american-science-surplus-portage-park-vintage-shop-is-selling-its-inventory/