Antique Capital of Colorado

On the Road . . . 

 As you enter Main Street, Florence, Colorado, you'd think you were on an old 

western movie set, rich with 1900-period details, gorgeous architecture and tall store fronts.

But this little town in south central Colorado calls itself 

"The Antique Capital of Colorado" and it's aptly named. 

Main Street, with diagonal parking and brick buildings, is lined with about a dozen antique stores. 

The city was named after Florence, daughter of local settler James McCandless. 

It was incorporated in 1887 but its history goes back to the 1860s when oil was discovered. 

We couldn't wait to check out the shops but the yummy architecture kept getting in the way. 

The stores were crammed with antiques, collectibles, gifts, art and welcoming shopkeepers. 

I found two treasures. 

An old book with torn binding, just the kind I love, called "Reddy Woodpecker," 

a "Tuck-me-in Tale." How sweet is that?

My other find was a large vintage breadboard. The sales clerk thought it was probably from the 40s
or 50s. The wood is over an inch thick and the surface has been carved with a sheaf of wheat and
the words "Give us this day our daily bread." 

I imagine a young boy might have carved it for his mother. Love it. 

But it was sticky and icky. 

A quick cure: dump Kosher salt all over the surface, mix in enough lemon juice to make a paste, smear it all over and scour with a rough sponge. Let sit for 30-60 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Dry with a paper towel. Better than new!

Remember, when visiting these old towns, be sure to leave Main Street and check out the neighborhood. There are some delicious old houses not to be missed. 

This is why we live in Colorado. It's full of these magical little towns.
(I want this house!)

Sharing with: Dwellings, Rustic & Refined, Between Naps on the Porch, Coastal Charm,
Cedar Hill Farmhouse, A Stroll Thru Life, Kathe with an E, Bella Rosa Antiques,
Savvy Southern Style, Maison de Pax, Knick of Time, Ivy & Elephants, The Vintage Nest,
From My Front Porch to Yours, Rooted in Thyme, Charm of Home, French Country Cottage,
Shabby Art Boutique, Thoughts from Alice, Creative Country Mom,
Have a Daily Cup of Mrs. Olson, A Delightsome Life, Meadow Lake Road, Adirondack Girl at Heart,
Shabby fufu