Owensboro Antiques and More — formerly operating as Owensboro Antiques Mall — will open the doors of its new home on Frederica Street on Wednesday. Owner Samuel Rafferty said one of the biggest benefits of the new location is being able to better showcase all their items.
The Owensboro Antique Mall was started in 1983 by Nashville businesswoman Eleanor Meade Waller. In 2003, Rafferty purchased the business, which was located at 500 West 3rd Street.
Rafferty closed that location — which will be the future site of an indoor sports facility for the City of Owensboro — in February 2023.
However, by the time he shut those doors, Rafferty already knew he’d be opening Owensboro Antiques and More at 2119 Frederica Street (roughly halfway between the library and Jimmy John’s, but on the east side of the road).
Rafferty is excited for customers to experience the new store.
“One thing we like about this property is the things show better in here — more like they would in a home — than they did in that storefront downtown,” Rafferty said.
Renovations to get the new location — a former house — into shape for commercial business included handicap-accessible installations along with other detailing and placements for the business.
“We’re happy that this has happened. We weren’t bitter about the move. We were ready for change. It’s a little bit different than what we had down there,” Rafferty said.
However, with less square footage, there’s less room for vendors. Despite only 8 vendors now, Rafferty said the store will still have the variety that it has been known for. With vendors specializing in quilt making, glassware, home decor, kitchen products, and more, Rafferty hopes the store can be a perfect option as people head into the holiday season and beyond.
The store will continue to host the annual Christmas Open House, which is currently slated for the weekend of November 18.
Rafferty said many customers are antique shoppers on day trips to explore the Owensboro scene. He often points them in the direction of other antique stores and local restaurants, saying they complement his business.
“In my opinion, in business it’s not a competition, it’s complementary. That draws more people here, and then they’ll go back and tell their friends there’s a lot of nice shops in Owensboro,” Rafferty said.
The store will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, but Rafferty said if they get busy they will adjust their hours as needed.
