Black Cat Antiques – Good Luck for Antique Collectors

Antique collectors of twenty years, Karen and Barry Shaw retired to pursue their love of antiques. To this end, they renovated a barn and opened Black Cat Antiques at its current location at 774 Peru Road (Rte 38), Groton, NY in July, 2012, where they strive to stock the unusual.

Their love of antiques began when they built a house for their 25th wedding anniversary and were in need of furnishings. They started going to auctions to purchase furniture, and as they attended the auctions, they gained an appreciation for history.

“The auctions hooked us when we discovered a wonderful world of local history,” Karen Shaw says.

“I was never interested in history in school, but now I have many local maps dating as far back as the 1800s, and I’ve collected a number of local history books,” Barry Shaw says. “The maps are very interesting because they show what the area around us looked like before the current homes and structures were built, as well as detailing the names of the residents of the homes that were here previously. I also really like the antique tools, of which I have an extensive collection; I have actually used them.”

Aside from the tools, Black Cat Antiques carries Primitives, Cornell memorabilia, and Rail Road, in addition to a wide variety of glass, such as Early American Pattern Glass, cut glass, Depression glass, and Fenton and Heisey glass. They also carry such items as kerosene lamps, Noritaki China, scales, oil and water color paintings and prints, and jewelry, as well as miniature teacup sets, salt and pepper shaker sets, and Salesman’s Samples. A great selection of unique gifts for all occasions is available at Black Cat Antiques in a wide price range.

The Shaws will also do their best to locate various items upon request.

“We still have many categories of items that aren’t in the shop yet,” Karen says.  “We plan to finish the renovation and expand our shop space this year.” The Shaws expect to use their new addition to display larger items, such as furniture.

Whether you’re an avid antique collector or looking for the perfect gift for someone who has a love of antiques, you are bound to find the right item that fits your budget at Black Cat Antiques. Stop in and visit Karen and Barry Shaw and browse their shop or visit them on the web at BlackCatAntiques.webs.com. You may also contact them with any questions by calling (607) 898-2048 or by e-mailing them at BlackCatAntiques@CentralNY.twcbc.com. Black Cat Antiques is open Friday and Saturday, 10:00 to 5:30, or by chance or appointment.

By Shannon R. Myers