Persimmon Ridge opens in Washington County

By: 
Monika Spaulding, Digital Editor

Persimmon Ridge Primitive and Collectables is appropriately named nestled in the countryside just off the road between Salem and Scottsburg.

Tia Juana (TJ) Wynstra and her husband, Yan, are going on their third year of ownership of the store. Originally they opened it in Scottsburg, but the cost of the store in that location was not worth all the effort.

Because she loved the business so much and it had become a hobby of hers more than a business, Yan suggested they build a store on their property and she could move it there. And that’s what they did.

She closed the Scottsburg location at the end of August and had hopes of opening soon after. Unfortunately, she was in a bad car accident where she was hit head on. While she did not have any major injuries, she was sore and it set her opening date back further than she had hoped.

However, the Wynstras are excited to have their new location at 10341 East Old State Rd 56 officially open and ready for business.

“My husband said, ‘If they come, great! If not, we’ll sit on porch!’” she laughed.

The couple built their new store with the help of Amish neighbors and are excited for customers to come see it. TJ is especially fond of the front porch and said many of her visitors so far have enjoyed just sitting and rocking on the porch and enjoying the atmosphere.

Persimmon Ridge is full of antiques, collectables, primitive items and farm house furniture. There are candles, signs, wreaths and Amish baked goods as well.

“It’s a very relaxed atmosphere!” she said.

Her friends, Debby and Mike Wooten, often help and Debby makes items for sale in the shop.

TJ said she works on repurposing furniture and making signs herself.

“It’s a hobby more than a business,” she said. “I just love doing it!”

TJ said she works to find unusual primitive and farm house furniture. In fact, when customers come in looking for specific pieces she writes it down and looks for it when she is out shopping for the store at antique malls, estate sales and yard sales. 

“When I find it, I give them a call and let them know it’s ready!” she said.

TJ said the store’s inventory changes daily. 

“Every day I put something new out!”

Persimmon Ridge is closed Monday and Tuesday and open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday 12 to 5 p.m.

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