Old School

This store, selling art materials, has been in these premises since May 1894. Originally a decorators merchants and fine art suppliers. Much of the facade, including a mosiac on the step which was designed by the founder, is original. Inside are beautiful bare wooden floorboards, deep drawers which held the paint pigments and the original counters and shelves.

The store is still owned and run by the Allen family and we were served today by a lady who is the great-grand daughter of Edwin Allen. She told us, with great pride, about the history of the store. They are still managing to cling on but, sadly, the next generation may not be as interested in continuing the family business.