Shops in Central are hidden away from the normal buzz of Black Hawk casinos, sometimes forgotten in the day-to-day travels. There is a another shop that should be recognized along the Central City Main Street. It is the biggest gift shop in Gilpin County.

This shop is four floors high and absolutely packed with unique gifts. You never know what you might find at the Hawley Mercantile. Though originally it was known as Hawleys Merchandise it is now known as Hawley Mercantile. The original name and building dates back to the 1800’s. Around 40 vendors display their wares, some old, some new, some borrowed...you get the picture. With vendor merchandise covering the walls and floor space you are bound to find something that sparks your fancy.

I had the pleasure of speaking to one of the owners, who was more than willing to give me information on the shop. The staff were very helpful to me as well as to other customers in the store.

There are many handmade items that lie within this gem of a store. It would be a great place to stop in for gifts for any occasion.

There is much history in the building as well as in the business. The business had been around since the 1800s and has changed buildings multiple times. The original scale and elevator still reside in the building. Many idioms within the store have their own history. Most have to be guessed.

Stepping into Hawley Mercantile is like stepping back into time and is a fun place to shop.

Hawley Mercantile is located at 121 Main Street, Central City, Colorado. They can be reached at 303-228- 6926. For additional information check out their Facebook page at Hawleymercantileofcentralcity. To gain more information try talking to the workers within the shop, and find your own piece of history.