Antique Dealers Association gives ideas

LAFAYETTE-With the goal of creating a quality center that will rival better known antique hubs, the antique dealers at Lafayette Crossing formed an association in June to further establish their district as an antiquing destination. After several meetings, the group developed a "wish list" of suggestions for both the beautification and safety of the center. Carol Cona of Cona's Antiques, etc., acting as representative for the Lafayette Crossing Antique Dealers Association, appeared at a recent town meeting to present these suggestions to the council. Among the ideas submitted for consideration were new sidewalks, gas street lamps, a new "Historic Lafayette" sign, banners on telephone poles, toilet facilities in municipal parking lots, renaming the area as "Lafayette Crossing," crosswalks and pedestrian crossing cones, and horse crossing signs on the trail. The Council expressed a willingness to cooperate, saying it will consider and investigate the feasibility of the proposals. With more than 90 dealers concentrated at the busy junction of Route 15 and Morris Farm/Meadow Roads, there remains a rustic air about the area comparable to a small New England town. The Antiques at Lafayette Crossing, as the locale has come to be identified, is comprised of several old buildings, including a beautiful stone building that is The Chocolate Goat Gift Shoppe; the Lafayette Mill, a 19th-century grist mill housing 60 merchants; Cona's Antiques, etc., situated on the Paulinskill River; and The Millside Café, a 19th-century general store. Other business includes Whitney House Antiques, Herb's Antiques, Olde Lafayette Emporium, and Black Pony Antiques, soon to double in size. As an antiquing destination, the center has become known for its authenticity, as reproductions are not generally permitted. The owners regularly review the merchandise to ensure that no item made late than the 1930s is displayed. If a quality reproduction is shown, it must be clearly labeled. The area was once a stop on the Lackawanna Railroad known as Lafayette Crossing. The railroad bed now serves as a trail for bicycling, hiking, and horseback riding, and a picnic area and covered bridge contribute to the country ambiance. Several convenient parking areas allow for "park and walk" proximity to over 90 antique dealers. The Conas, Carol and Paul, have great pride in the district and maintain the blossoming potted plants that welcome the visitor at every venue. They also invite their patrons to tour the magnificent gardens adjacent to the shop bordering the Paulinskill River. The association has scheduled a Specialty Antiques Outdoor Sale on October 2-3 to "Celebrate Autumn," featuring primitive, sporting items, baskets, trunks, and other items.