Story by Jessie VerStraete & Kathryn Retzler
Photos © Kathryn Retzler

WESTERN COLORADO is an historic journey in itself; it wasn’t that long ago that courageous settlers arrived here bearing all of their household belongings stacked in the back of a wagon. We’re talking everything from fine china to a pedal piano, a four poster bed to a butter churn—and all of it carted over harsh terrain, often in bad weather, and through treacherous Indian territory. Most of it made it, and much of it is still here today—treasures, if you will, wonderful finds in the regional antique stores.

If you love antiques, or maybe just love a good bargain, this is a great place to find both. Plan to make a day or two of it, or, better yet, plan a whole weekend with a leisurely lunch, sumptuous dinner and an overnight stop in Montrose or Ridgway. Antiquing is more fun if you’re not in a hurry.

If you’re starting in Montrose, you will encounter many fine antique outlets, both inside of town and on the outskirts. Pick up a brochure at one of them for a complete list and map of the area. Thirty minutes south, in Ridgway, you’ll find seven great shops and plenty of good spots for lunch. You might want to extend your tour north to Cedaredge or Grand Junction. And to the south, there are antique shops in Ouray, Silverton and the Durango area.

MONTROSE

RIDGWAY

EXOTICS FINE IMPORTS
Ridgway, Colorado • 970-626-3775 exoticsfineimports.com
Open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Daily
It is a true sensory adventure—swirls of high color and intricate pattern, sumptuous scents of old wool and beeswax, the sensual feel of fine wood and elegant weavings. You’ll think you’ve stepped into a sophisticated shop in old Morocco or perhaps an antique rug barn in London or a mysterious cave of worldly treasures and world-class antiques found only after a protracted and truly satisfactory hunt for the unique and unusual.  Look for an unparalleled selection of exquisite rugs from the Orient and Mid-east, divine old clay pots from Turkey and Greece, and one-of-a-kind antique pieces. Owner Brahim Ilahiane presents a fabulous collection of antique oriental rugs, imported furniture and decorative items, everything from museum quality to the highly affordable and all of it fabulous!

SOUTHWEST SPIRIT ANTIQUES southwestspiritantiques.com
631 W. Sherman (Hwy 62)
Ridgway, Colorado • 970-626-5629
Call for hours or appointment.
The display windows promise quality antiques, and you won’t be disappointed. Inside, you’ll find period furniture, antique lighting and an extensive collection of railroadiana and collectibles—all in beautiful condition. Owners John and Debbie VerStraete pride themselves in providing their customers with the best possible selection of high-end antiques. Their specialty is Victorian-era pieces and railroad memorabilia including lanterns, footstools, hat badges and keys and locks from many now extinct railroads. The outstanding selection of antique furniture includes corner cupboards, dining room tables, chair sets, bedroom furniture, antique gaming tables and more.

RB HORSE TRADERS
631 W. Sherman (Hwy 62)
Ridgway, Colorado • 970-626-9883
Open Daily
Just inside is the area’s most comprehensive collection of framed and antique prints, many by notably collectible artists such as Maxfield Parrish and Fox. You’ll find plenty of other wonderful vintage prints, many in original frames, along with vintage newspaper and magazine stories and advertising, prints of classic cars and various print memorabilia. Owners Dick and Brenda Engdahl also carry Russian icons, books, collectible glass items and an impressive selection of miscellaneous loose-leaf paper prints. Be sure to check out the prints in the back room and 
original art by Derek and Dick Engdahl.