Due to health reasons, Jacqueline Castleman is closing her shop About Antiques after 24 years.
By Samantha SLAYBACK
The foothills community has long been a community that values previous decades and all they had to offer. For this reason, antique stores have always had a place in the area. One particular shop has graced Montrose for the past 24 years.
About Antiques, located at 3533 Ocean View Blvd., has been run by Jacqueline Castleman since the early ’90s. After the passing of her husband in 1990, Castleman knew she wanted to open a shop in order to support herself.
“The whole business has been good to me,” said Castleman. “I’ve met really nice people and I’ve always felt safe – nothing bad happened in all 24 years.”
Unfortunately, due to a specific health issue, Castleman has no choice but to close her doors. As a result of a genetic and age-related condition known as macular degeneration, Castleman is losing her sight. The condition is very common, but sadly has no cure.
“The store closing is due entirely to my vision,” explained Castleman. “Business has been wonderful and if it weren’t for my condition I’d stay open for another five to 10 years.”
The store is currently up for sale, though Castleman is unsure of exactly when it will close. Until that day comes, the shop will be up and running with the help of friends. Open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., About Antiques is still welcoming customers and companions.
Every antiques boutique has something unique to offer patrons. About Antiques has always specialized in vintage textiles, but also carries a general line of dolls, toys and more.
“It has always been a really interesting store,” said Castleman.
Looking forward, Castleman intends to return to her usual spot (S-18) at the Rose Bowl Flea Market as long as a friend is willing to take her. Castleman has set up her antique stand on the second Sunday of every month to attract more customers to her shop since it opened. Now that she can no longer run the shop, she will be relying solely on her earnings from the flea market. Knowing that her customers who became friends over the years can still find her is comforting to Castleman.
“I want to say thank you to all the fine people who have come in over the past 24 years,” said Castleman. “I will miss the people as much as I will miss the business.”
Montrose Antiques Store to Close Its Doors added by CV Weekly on
View all posts by CV Weekly →