Independent Shops Mark Milestones, Ownership Changes

Longstanding independent shops are sustaining their place in local communities through distinctive products, personal service and family ties. In Jeffersonville, Indiana, Schimpff’s Confectionery is a beloved 130-plus-year-old candy-making institution, while Tulsa’s Margo’s Gift Shop is entering a new chapter under owner Susan Shrewder, who plans to preserve customer favorites and add new merchandise. In Dawsonville, Georgia, Fancy Flea gives an old bank building a new life as an antique and gift shop, with its original vault still inside. Warwick’s antique bookshop, founded by Duncan Allsop in 1966, is marking its 60th anniversary; his wife Veronica now runs the business, which also sells books online. Ipswich’s Maud’s Attic is celebrating 30 years after evolving from an antiques business into a gift, fashion and homeware shop, still run as part of a family cluster of neighboring businesses.