Borough antique center celebrates first anniversary

HAMBURG-Celebrating its first anniversary, the Hamburg Antique Center is not your typical antique establishment. Located in a landmark building that was erected in the 1850s, the center is extremely organized and well lit, with gleaming wood floors and counters that are original to the structure. Situated just down from the intersection of Routes 94 and 23 at One Main Street, co-owner George Howell said he believed it originally was a grain and feed store but has been a hardware store most of its recent life. Howell has more than 35 years in the antique business. His partners and co-owners are Richard and Rachael Travis. All had previously worked the antique show circuit in Pennsylvania and New Jersey before deciding to open the Hamburg store. The owners say they build their reputation by providing superior merchandise. At the Hamburg location, they sell antiques from more than 50 dealers on consignment, with no merchandise of more recent origin than the 1950s. "Show promoters know when you have really good stuff, and they seek you out," said Travis. "We have always been known to have good quality merchandise and have received complements on our offerings." "We present a great layout where you can see everything, and it is not cluttered. There is no junk, no crafts, and no reproductions," said Howell. The two-story building contains approximately 8,000 square feet of space, ample room to display items that may be functional, decorative or both. Because of the diverse tastes and needs of antique collectors, the selection of items is extremely varied. Travis noted that there are three jewelry dealers with a large inventory, a fine collection of toys, and other collectibles displayed for easy access and viewing in showcases, room settings, and decorating the walls. A variety of furniture in a number of different woods, including mahogany, walnut, pine, and oak representing different tastes and decades is on display. "We never know what anyone's looking for when they walk through the doors," said Howell. "Customers like the fact that it is so clean and spacious, nothing is piled in top of one another, and we are reasonably priced." Travis said, "We are pleased to be in one of the best locations in Sussex County. It's the perfect place for antiques, and it's only going to get better." Dealer space is available and antique consignments are welcome. For information, call 973-823-9700