WV Living takes you on a tour of regional treasures and the local businesses that are curating them for you.
written by Laney Eichelberger & Devin Lacy
photographed by Nikki Bowman Mills & Carla Witt Ford
Living in a mass-market world means items are built quickly and for cheap—trends are moving faster, purchases are made on impulse, and craftsmanship often leaves much to be desired. Goods are losing character and resilience, tossed out when the latest look goes viral. So how are savvy homeowners and intrepid eco-warriors choosing to fix this? They’re going back to the basics that are anything but.
You’ve seen it, we’re sure, on sites like TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest: Antiques are finding second lives in the homes of millennials and other young adults who are looking to bring personality to their homes as future-thinking, environmentally conscious consumers. It’s all about sustainability, buying things that are made to last, and, ultimately, creating spaces we love to spend time in—permance and longevity in a world that’s focused on the next new thing.
Thankfully, it’s easy in West Virginia to build a life surrounded by beautiful, storied pieces, because we’re storytellers in our bones, rooted to the past and to the things that remind us of home. An “antique shop” can be found almost anywhere—in a home basement that a handmade yard sign up the holler points you to or at a high-end Main Street boutique. The experiences are different, but they have this in common: They both offer carefully curated selections of once-adored items that are looking for new spaces to enliven and new memories to be a part of.
Our Antique Tool Bag
There are a few things you’ll want to have with you.
➸ Bring a tape measure—and some measurements! Make sure that chest of drawers you’re so excited about will fit in your car and your room.
➸ A magnet is a must. True brass and silver are nonmagnetic, while plated metal—typically over steel or copper—will stick.
➸ UV black light flashlights are your new best friend. They’re popular for hunting down uranium glass and checking for unwanted stains on rugs and upholstery that may not be visible in standard light.
➸ Throw some blankets in the car. Most stores have paper and tissue to wrap delicate items in, but blankets will protect larger pieces of furniture from getting banged up in transit.
➸ You’ll want a way to magnify items. Whether it’s a Sherlock classic, a jeweler’s loupe, or even the camera on your smartphone, magnifying glasses are great for getting a closer look.
BOLO (Be On the Look Out)
In 2026, storage options will be the high prize items for antiquarians. From wooden travel trunks to mid-century sideboards to well-loved bureaus, these lasting pieces are functional showstoppers that will become the centerpiece of your antiques focused space.
NEW RIVER/GREENBRIER VALLEY
Look Around Lewisburg
Lewisburg conceals countless treasures proofed by time, if you know where to look.
Hop on over to The Golden Rabbit, where you’re guaranteed to unearth a priceless piece of history. Peruse antiques, jewelry, and fine art from around the world curated by a master—owner Adrienne French is a second-generation art dealer who values the ethical preservation and appreciation of historic items. Meander over to the oldest commercial building in Lewisburg, a two-story 1815 home turned antique store, and explore Brick House Antiques’ nine rooms tastefully stocked with glassware, silver, linens, fine jewelry, and regional heirlooms bursting with stories to tell. Speaking of stories, The Very Thing is wellloved by locals and visitors alike for its old-fashioned Appalachian hospitality. While you find the very thing you need to fill that empty space on your wall or expand your glass collection, you’ll feel like family. For a truly sophisticated shopping experience, try Robert’s Antiques & Wine Shop. Explore 10,000 square feet of period furniture, porcelain, rugs, and more. Plus, a museum of medical antiques, a historic guillotine, and one of the largest wine selections in the state.
Alderson’s is the OG
It’s not often that an antique store holds a history as legendary as the heirlooms it houses, but Alderson’s Store isn’t any old antique store—it’s one of the oldest stores in West Virginia. It was founded in 1887 as J.M. Alderson General Merchandise, supplying the town with everyday necessities. The store was rebuilt following a 1930 fire and continues to stand today as a testament to the iconic Art Deco architectural style. You might spot echoes of the West Virginia Governor’s Mansion and The Ruffner (see page 52 in this issue) in Charleston—all were designed by architect Walter F. Martens. Today, with the fourth generation of the Alderson family—descendants of the town’s founder—at the helm, the shop remains one of a kind. It honors its general store roots with a mixed bag of clothing, jewelry, books, and most importantly, vintage finds. 320 Monroe Street South, Alderson, @aldersonsstore on FB
Core Values
Aesthetics are what you make them.
The concept of “-core” aesthetics caught major traction in 2010s pop culture, becoming a way we talk about fashion, lifestyle, and even home decor. Most people fall in between multiple styles—a touch of retro-chic here, a little minimalist there—while others find themselves curating their life to one look they love.
Antique and vintage goods lend themselves well to many cores, but we have a few favorites:
Cottagecore
Inspired by rural life with a more romanticized, nature-focused approach, cottagecore is all things soft, whimsical, and light. Think natural textures with subtle rural imagery and floral or gingham patterns. Vintage and antique items fit well into this aesthetic—wicker baskets, floral china, earthy tones, and brass elements.
Farmcore
Farmcore also celebrates rural life, but it’s more inspired by things found around the farm. Reclaimed wood—particularly in furniture—is the star here, along with the natural coloring and animal motifs. Antique farm tools, washboards, and kitchenware often find new purpose as wall decor, and pewter, brass, and other aged or distressed metals add to the rustic atmosphere.
Grandmacore
Also known as “granny chic,” this aesthetic might hit close to home—probably because you’ve seen it in one. Textiles are huge here: handmade quilts, framed needlepoint pieces, and intricate lace are must-haves. Floral patterns abound for furniture and decor, as well as delicate figurines and other kitschy knickknacks.
EASTERN PANHANDLE
A Store to Crow About
There’s lots to say about Two Crows Antique Mall. At this Ranson shop, birds of a feather flock together—more than 60 antique vendors come together to curate booths packed with antique toys, dollhouse miniatures, nostalgic seasonal decor, and plenty of treasures straight out of the Mountain State, like Fiesta dinnerware and accessories. Once you’ve gathered the antiques of your dreams, nab some greenhouse-grown botanicals and stop by the Two Crows Primitive Country Market for salsa, hot sauce, jam, and more. 1212 North Mildred Street, Ranson, “Two Crows Antique Mall” on FB
The Wooden Shoe Antiques can’t be outshined. In addition to quintessential antique trinkets, it’s also home to hundreds of lamps in every shape, size, and color imaginable. Table, floor, or hanging, kerosene or electric—the options are endless. 222 West Washington Street, Charles Town, woodenshoeantiques.com, “Wooden Shoe Antiques & Lighting” on FB
SPRING BACK IN TIME
This 7,000-square-foot Berkeley Springs antique mall invites you to embrace the role of a treasure hunter of yore. Inspect gleaming cabochons and strings of pearls, delight in the nostalgic charm of vintage cartoon collectibles, and admire the finer details of furnishings from decades past. Across the way, Berkeley Springs State Park upholds the historic atmosphere with vestiges of the town’s colonial mountain spa community background. Soak in the storied spring, then bring home your own piece of history. 7 Fairfax Street, Berkeley Springs, @berkeleyspringsantiquemall on FB
A Tour of Eras
They really aren’t interchangeable!
Antique
Treasures at least 100 years old, carrying the history, imagination, and craftsmanship of times long past. Antiques are often handmade and sport some sign of wear or age.
Vintage
Items that are much more recent, falling between 20 and 99 years old. Yes, that does make items from the ’80s and ’90s— and even early 2000s—”vintage.”
Retro
Finds with little to no actual age but made to mimic the look of vintage and antique goods, occasionally well enough to land among the authentic.
Mountaineer Country
Arts & Antiques Marketplace
A stately figure nestled in the heart of Fairmont’s Downtown Historic District, this threestory antique mall is one of the largest in the state. Explore more than 40 booths arranged throughout the historic Jacobs-Hutchinson Block building. 205 Adams
Street, Fairmont, @artsantiqueswv on FB
Bruceton Antique Mall
A uranium glassware statement piece, an elegant cameo with a story to tell, or even a charismatic reindeer mount—one-of-a-kind pieces are anything but singular at this countryside must-stop shop. Local vendors curate booths with trained eyes and a stylish touch. 15041 North Preston Highway, Bruceton Mills, @brucetonantiquemall on FB
Eloquence Antiques & Artisans
From oddities to artistries to upcycles, this hidden gem has plenty of diamonds in the rough. Keep an eye out for year-round pop-up vintage markets featuring dozens of vendors. 5000 Green Bag Road, Morgantown, @eloquencewv on FB
Masontown School Antique Mall
Stepping through the doors of this former middle school gymnasium building is like stepping back in time. Explore 16,000 square feet of classroom after classroom— it’s antiquing like you’ve never experienced before. 167 South Main Street, Masontown, “Masontown School Antique Mall” on FB
Nonna’s Antiques
No matter how niche your collection might be, Nonna’s has a nifty new addition in stock: military memorabilia, quilts, fine jewelry, and more. Be sure to appraise each and every booth—you might spot a sale. 3100 Earl Core Road, Morgantown, “Nonna’s Antiques” on FB
Mountain Lakes
Sister’s Antique Mall
There’s no better way to spend your day than lost in the enchanting aisles of a 10,000-square-foot antique store. Weave between boxes of vintage records and stacks of aged ephemera and explore shelves packed with classic glassware and quirky collectables. 3766 Sutton Lane, Sutton, “Sister’s Antique Mall in Flatwoods, WV” on FB
Main Street Antiques and Collectibles
Antiquing is an art that requires patience and an appreciation for the finer details—so take your time in this store. Once you’ve made your way through well-crafted furnishings and shelves equipped with cast iron pans, charming figurines, quaint clocks, and more, take a breather while you browse a selection of specialty beers and wines. 15 East Main Street, Buckhannon, “Main Street Antiques” on FB
Buckhannon Antique Mall
This antique mall has stood the test of time since 1991—long enough to be considered vintage itself. Need we say more? For the antique snob in us all, this store has a strict policy: no reproductions, crafts, or anything that leans closer to trash than treasure. You’re guaranteed to get your money’s worth. 2743 Clarksburg Road, Buckhannon, buckhannonantiquemall.com
Metro Valley
History Comes to Life at Heritage Farm
Step back in time to early West Virginia living.
Progress Museum sets the stage of an 1850s Appalachian home, showcasing the everyday lives of early settlers.
Transportation Museum transports you to the first frontier, when horse-drawn wagons allowed for travel between colonial settlements, and leads you through the ages, as steamboats, automobiles, and airplanes revolutionized transportation.
Industry Museum further illustrates pillars of West Virginia that spurred the state’s growth: salt mining, coal mining, and glass production, to name a few.
Children’s Activity Museum offers an opportunity to get hands-on with history. Kids can live like a pioneer for a day through simulated chores—pumping water, churning butter, collecting eggs, and milking a model cow.
HUNTINGTON TREASURES
On the hunt in Central City Antiques District along 14th Street West in Huntington—the antiques capital of West Virginia.
Hattie & Nan’s Antiques & Books
Antiques and books go together like coffee and cream—especially when the books are rare and collectible. Skim storied pages, furniture, lighting, and more curated from estate auctions and private sellers. @joannahattieantiques on FB
Huntington Peddlers Mall
This indoor flea market might be one of 19 regional locations, but it’s one of a kind. Stop by any day of the week to shop from more than 200 local vendors. @huntingtonpeddlersmall on FB
Sue’s Junk & Antique Mall
With more than 250 vendors, this popular antique mall is full of treasures. Fairy lamps, Fenton glass masterpieces, and presidential memorabilia are just a few of the recent additions to the shelves. @suesjunk on FB
Village Antiques & Art
Antiquing is magical by itself, but add to your trip with ventures in history and creativity at the Central City Museum and Gallery 610, both located inside Village Antiques & Art. @villageantiqueswv on FB
Capital Discoveries
Charleston and its neighboring communities allow for an all-day antique hunt.
SOUTH CHARLESTON ANTIQUE MALL
SOUTH CHARLESTON
Since 2005, this multi-dealer shop has been a haven for antique-minded shoppers looking to spend a day browsing the tastefully stocked shelves. The sellers on the roster cover a wide variety of items, from home goods and decor to stoneware, jewelry, signage, collectibles, and so much more. 617 D Street, South Charleston, southcharlestonantique.com, “South Charleston Antique Mall” on FB
VINTAGE AND VINE MERCANTILE
SOUTH CHARLESTON
Tucked among the shops right near the Criel Mound, this collection of vendors boasts 10,000 square feet of treasures waiting for their new homes. Sustainability is at the forefront of its mission, items carefully curated to cover a broad range of interests and aesthetics. 609 D Street, South Charleston, vintageandvinesmercantile.com, @vintageandvines.wv on FB
MCM Showcase
Mid-century modern style is timeless, clean and simple in a way that fits well into modern spaces while providing a touch of classic, functional warmth. It dates to the years leading up to World War II and well into the 1960s and ’70s, as homes became more functional and “lived in.” This style is experiencing a renaissance, and antique stores around the state are seeing an influx of shoppers looking for the perfect MCM pieces to round out their homes.
The Purple Moon, found on Quarrier Street in Charleston, specializes in 20th century finds in furniture, art, and more. It also offers services in managing estate sales, handling the pricing and staging of items and drawing buyers in from its own network. Keep an eye on its Facebook page for upcoming sales and the latest items found in-store. 817 Quarrier Street, Charleston, @thepurplemoon on FB
STRAY DOG ANTIQUES
CHARLESTON
This long-standing Charleston shop is a treasure trove of goods filled with new stories to uncover—sometimes literally. Books, artwork, and newspapers can be found displayed alongside jewelry, home decor, and kitchenware. Get lost among the shelves, but find something new-to-you. 219 Hale Street, Charleston, @straydogantiques on FB
The Search Continues
Brown’s Antique Mall
3502 1st Avenue, Nitro, brownsantiquemall.com, @brownsantiquemall on FB
The Old Timey Shop
1029 North Main Street, Milton, @oldtimeyshop on FB
Somewhere in Time Antiques
307 21st Street, Nitro, @somewhereintimeantiqueswv on FB
SPEAK ANTIQUE
We’re here to translate.
Art deco: A decorative, early 1900s art style featuring bold, stylized shapes and colors—like the Mountain State’s beloved Fiesta Dinnerware.
Curio: An especially quirky trinket for those with eccentric taste. Think “potentially haunted porcelain doll.”
Ephemera: Collectible paper scraps like vintage post cards, advertisements, and flyers coveted by scrapbookers.
Maker’s mark: A symbol or inscription that indicates the manufacturer or artist, like the iconic sandblasted Blenko mark.
Primitive: A folk art style characterized by simple, rustic designs—perfect for farmhouse chic.
MID-OHIO VALLEY SHOPS
Everywhere you look in the Mid-Ohio Valley, there are signs of eras past. But the stroll down memory lane doesn’t end at regal hotels and museums—area antique shops are brimming with treasures of a bygone time. In Parkersburg, peruse the many treasures of shops like Smith & Company Vintage Market, where you can expand—or start—your Fiesta Dinnerware collection, or Sanford & Wife Antiques and Museum, with its plentiful military memorabilia and Civil War exhibit. There’s also The Rustic House Antique Mall, containing 5,000 square feet of glassware, furniture, clothing, and more. Travel south to Ravenswood, where Yesterday’s Antiques, Coins & Collectibles offers an eclectic selection of rare coins and collectable Fenton and Blenko glassware. At LML Riverbend Antique Mall, you’re sure to find eccentric oddities and practical furnishings alike.
LEAVE NO PLATE UNTURNED
Ohio River Valley Antiques
212 Main Street, Ravenswood, “Ohio River Valley Antiques” on FB
The Sistersville Emporium
701 Wells Street, Sistersville
READ MORE ARTICLES FROM WV LIVING’S SPRING 2026 ISSUE
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