DECEMBER 2011

A New Antiques Gallery in Historic Little Falls, New York

As you may already know, we have been in the antiques business for over 40 years. We have tried our hand in many venues, shows and shops in numerous areas of the Northeast, most successful, some not! Given the state of the present economy and also our "advancing age" we have decided to associate with Joani Kovacik, proprietor of a new shop in Little Falls, New York: Ravenswatch Antiques and Art Gallery.

Joani has been a friend and fellow dealer for a number of years. Her husband, John Kovacik is a skilled clock, watch and furniture conservation specialist and we have used his services many times.

Several years ago, we shared a little shop with Joani in Canajoharie, New York and was surprised how successful we were selling antiques in all categories. Joani is very knowledgeable and has a great personality for sales. Additionally, her reputation in upstate New York is solid.

A few years ago, the Kovaciks made the move to Little Falls, NY and just recently in August, Joani decided to open a shop on Canal Place and she asked us to join her. Of course, we readily agreed to participate.

A Short History of Little Falls, New York

Little Falls, with a population of 5,900, is a charming small city on the Erie Canal, a National Heritage Corridor, in the Mohawk River Valley.

The canal, built in 1817-25, stretches 363 navigable miles in upstate New York from Albany (Hudson River) to Buffalo (Lake Erie) and is operated and maintained by the state of New York. This 19th Century engineering marvel has a fascinating history and its use today makes it a major attraction for boaters.

Little Falls owes its existence to the falls and rapids which facilitated river trade and commerce in the 19th century and also provided water power for industry. None of the grist mills, saw mills and foundries exist today, but in Canal Place there are multi-storied limestone, brick and wood structures from that era, renovated over time to provide housing and retail businesses.

A little know fact is that in 1853-75 the city, then a village was a major cheese producer for the nation. It still takes pride in its current production of cheese and dairy products. Regional farm production is the basis for an annual "Garlic Festival" at Canal Place in September. There is also a popular "Canal Celebration" attended by thousands in August.

Little Falls and the surrounding area is a welcome destination for those interested in historical and cultural programs.

For the naturalist, there are many geological features, including unique quartz crystal mining, public parks, trails and bikeways.

In short, Little Falls is a wonderful spot for a day's outing or for a longer vacation.

Visit

We are very pleased to be a part of this new gallery and hope that our friends and clients will travel up the New York Thruway to exit 29A and come visit us at: 411 Canal Place (South Ann St. on Map) Little Falls, NY 315-823-1800 OPEN: Open Tuesday-Saturday and by appointment.

It is also our intention to maintain an inventory of items on our website and to participate in select shows during each year.

More information on Little Falls and the surrounding area can be obtained at www.littlefallsny.com.

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