For as long as anyone can remember, there has always been an "antiques" sign across from the I-84 Exit 10 westbound ramps in Sandy Hook.

The sign sat in front of a Colonial home that dates to the early 18th Century, making it one of the oldest in town. The home's history always pieced together a fitting picture for the prior owners, Karl Gulick and his daughter, Faith Gulick, as they were reputable dealers in quality country and Americana antiques.

Since the 1950s, they filled the home with their collection, preserving the property from ever knowing modernity.

Cue Cathy Schirmer, a Bethel resident who recently bought the property with her husband, Joe, making them only the fourth owners in more than 300 years. The Schirmers have renovated the barn into a fabulous space for Aunt Cappy's Uniques & Antiques, carrying on the tradition of selling antiques from 68 Church Hill Road.

"I really wanted to keep the authenticity of the barn," said Ms Schirmer on the renovation. She left the stalls intact and filled each of them with different genre-specific items. Furniture vignettes spread throughout the room, while art, clocks and other pieces fill the walls. Antique beams stretch across the ceiling and lights illuminate the collection from above. A gallery has been made.

Ms Schirmer had a joyful smile as she gave a tour of the shop; her friendly attitude makes for a perfect shopkeeper. Having just left the corporate world, she is excited to pursue a more relaxed lifestyle and focus on her interests.

Entering through a large glass door, visitors can expect to find an eclectic mix of antiques and unique gifts from furniture, lighting, artworks, ceramics, service settings, books, objects, collectibles and jewelry. The shop carries plenty of chic design styles, including country, Asian and Continental.

When asked what she looks for in an object, Ms Schirmer said, "I want people to say, 'Wow, I don't think I've ever seen something like that.'"

Visitors who had shopped the Gulick collection may recognize a thing or two in the shop, but Schirmer has brought in an entirely new mix of pieces to the space.

"We source most of our pieces from auctions and estate sales, anywhere we can; there's something for everyone," said Ms Schirmer.

Aunt Cappy's Uniques & Antiques is open Friday to Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm. For additional information, 203-743-1848 or facebook.com/auntcappys.

This feature originally appeared in Antiques and The Arts Weekly, the sister publication of .The Newtown Bee

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