In 1976, Roger and Catherina Faut opened a family-operated antique shop, in a prime location in Lancaster County. For them to maintain the quality and quantity of the merchandise, dealers were invited, one by one, to join the establishment by renting booths and showcases. To provide shoppers' the convenience of long hours, a new concept in Lancaster County was developed: the “Antique Co-op.” Each dealer contributed their time to the shop, assisting customers with all merchandise, irrespective of which dealer supplied the merchandise to the co-op. This concept made it possible for the business to stay open for extended periods of time, including weekend evenings.

Today, Lancaster County’s first co-op is still thriving, as it’s located right in the center of what is known as “Antiques Capital, USA!”

History