A Discover France Article tells about the old history that could be related to the origins of Flea Markets. The article states that the real beginnings of this type of merchandising dates back several centuries ago.
Rag-and-bone men are responsible for reselling old objects that have been thrown out along with trash outside the fortifications surrounding the city of Paris.
They then resell their finds on the local markets.
More on the full article, link below
Link: History of the Saint-Ouen Flea Market
