Heritage, history and thrifting at Cookstown Antique Market

Tradition is at the heart of this second-generation business. For more than 30 years, the Cookstown Antique Market has been a place dedicated to keeping pieces of history alive.

“We love the beauty, quality, and functionality of antique pieces. Most antiques were handcrafted, an art that is not so common today,” said market owner Diana Robinson.

Celebrating its 31st anniversary last month, the market has become a well-known community hub for antique enthusiasts.

Diana, who co-owns and operates the business with her husband, Bill Robinson, feels excited every time she sees the look on new customers’ faces when they first enter the store.

“A lot of the time it is, quite literally, a jaw-dropping moment for them, as it is a most unexpected experience,” she said. “The second-most exciting part is having customers return again and again to the point of watching children grow up and become customers.”

As always, she says, an ever-changing inventory is what keeps customers coming back.

“We never know what treasurers our antique dealers are going to bring into the store,” she said.

The Cookstown Antique Market traces its roots to 1991, when Bill’s parents opened the antique store in a 1,000-square-foot barn that was built in the mid-’80s. One year later, the store was expanded using two late-1800s barns that were taken down piece by piece, and rebuilt into the current design. This expanded the store to 6,000 square feet.

Diana still has vivid memories of those early days, when she ran the store, mostly on weekends, while Bill helped his parents construct the buildings into what they are today.

“There was no social media back then, so we literally handed out flyers and attended trade shows to let folks know where we were,” she recalled.

Working full-time at the market for the past six years, Diana continues to be amazed by the experience of connecting with the antique community in the region.

“We have met many antique dealers who are a wonderfully eclectic group that all share an amazing passion for preserving history,” she said.

She finds antique dealers work hard and are passionate about what they do.

“They are always looking for unique and interesting items, as well as following trends for home decor. As well, they are constantly cleaning, repairing, and bringing merchandise into the store for our customers,” she said.

Diana is optimistic about the outlook for antiques in Innisfil and the region.

“There is a lot of new growth in Innisfil. We believe that antiques are here to stay.”

The market currently has 30 antique dealers, and each one purchases, displays, and sells their own items throughout the store.

“Each little area in the market actually has its own style and personality. Some will draw you in; some won’t. That’s what makes it awesome, as there is something for everyone,” she noted.

As for Diana herself, it’s hard to pick a single favourite piece or category of antique.

“It’s probably everything. I have purchased jewellery, furniture, tools, fabric, glassware, etc. My mom was a thrifter. We didn’t really ever purchase anything new. I suppose it’s just in my blood,” she said.

For people who love the look and feel of antiques, the market also provides a large event space for social meetings or private celebrations.

“We recently hosted a high tea brunch, with two sold-out seatings, which everyone really enjoyed. Bring your own food or have it catered,” Diana said.

The Cookstown Antique Market is open 362 days per year, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.