Push For 'Connecticut Antiques Trail' Lands Next Door

There probably couldn't be a better place to promote a law that would create a "Connecticut Antiques Trail" than in the state's unofficial antiques capital.

That capital, Woodbury, also happens to be one of the town's represented by the state Senator who has proposed the law. 

To raise awareness about his proposal, Sen. Rob Kane will tour three local antiques dealers on Tuesday, Sept. 17. His tour in Woodbury is as follows:

• Mill House Antiques: 1068 Main St. North at 9:30 a.m. 
• Wayne Mattox Antiques: 82 Main St. North at 10 a.m.
• Abrash Galleries: 40 Main St. North at 10:30 a.m.

According to a press release from Kane's office, the new law aims to promote antiques shops throughout the state with road signs, notices and web advertisements. 

The statewide marketing campaign will be modeled after a trail already in existence in Woodbury. That trail was established in 2009 when Sen. Kane, at the request of a constituent, worked with the state Department of Transportation to erect signs on Interstate 84 to promote antiques shops off the highway, the release states. 

“The unofficial ‘Antiques Capital’ of Connecticut is Woodbury, but we have antiques dealers in all corners of our state,” Kane said. “It makes sense for us to promote these unique, small businesses and get them the attention they deserve.”

Kane, a Republican who represents the state's 32nd District, likens the “Connecticut Antiques Trail” to the Connecticut Wine Trail, which promotes vineyards with road signs.

“There are many ancillary businesses which can benefit from this new law,” Kane said. “Restaurants, museums and bed and breakfasts could all see an uptick in business. It’s a chance for residents and visitors to get to know our beautiful state and enjoy its wonderful history and culture. We have much to be proud of, so why not let the world know?”