The building at 517 State Street in Belle Fourche has a story to tell.
Built in 1905, the structure is typical of the style of small town department stores in the western region. In fact, the one and a half story building housed an early J.C. Penney’s department store.
The structure is welcoming with its center entry flanked by two plate glass windows. The building with its various original features also provides a glimpse of what life might have been like at the beginning of the twentieth century in Belle Fourche.
Although not on the historic register, it seems fitting that the building, a historic artifact itself, should be home to The Black Hills Curio Company.
According to the store’s proprietor, Thomas Coronato, the store offers distinctive high-quality memorabilia, antiques and antiquities.
Antique Navajo jewelry, Native American beadwork, western collectibles, fossils, rocks, and vintage western wear are among a few of the treasures that visitors to the store are likely to discover.
Fine art, boutique and other gift items are also available. Coronato comes from a family of collectors and experts in western antiques and memorabilia.
He came to the business as a child and demonstrates an appreciation for both art and history.
He is easy to meet and enjoys conversation especially as it pertains to the significance of antiques.
The store is open from 9 to 5, Tuesday to Saturday and on Mondays by appointment only. The store is closed on Sundays.
