Business Spotlight: Penelope's Western Emporium
 

   Penny Leigh and Tony Tedaldi moved to the area over a year ago from Miami Beach, Florida with the idea of opening an antique shop in La Veta. What has been their dream for several years has now become a reality - Penelope's Western Emporium. "We feel we've been in training for this most of our lives," joked Penny. "Tony's background and experience come from the auction business. He's sold everything from jet engine parts to live ostriches." Penny's passion has been garage sales, estate liquidations and art auctions. With her degree in Interior Architecture and their cumulative experience, the partners developed a keen eye for the authentic, unique, or exceptional artifact. "As exciting as the thrill of the hunt can be, selling these treasures is even more fun. We always love sharing the stories that go along with some items."

Penny Leigh and Tony Tedaldi

   Penelope's Western Emporium specializes in antiques, collectibles, gifts, jewelry, art, lighting and home accessories. The couple has worked hard on their buying trips to secure the very best prices, then pass the savings on to local shoppers. Open year around, they strive to offer fascinating merchandise at fair prices, not just aimed at the tourist trade. They suggest residents stop by frequently to see their ever-changing inventory rather than traveling to Pueblo for a special wedding present, birthday or Christmas gift.

   Even the building at 203 Main holds a rich, enduring history of La Veta's past. Guiseppe Micheletti, an active member of the United Mine Workers Union, built the stone building in 1913. Originally, the property had an old 1870's frame building on it, which housed among others J.W. Culler's Restaurant & Confectionary and Mitchell Mill's Saloon, but the building was razed in 1899.

   Micheletti moved to La Veta from Italy in January, 1913, and soon began construction on the 20 by 100 foot building which opened for business in June of 1913. The front section was used by the Star Bar and the back was a restaurant. By October, Micheletti had left. The coal strike that led to the Ludlow Massacre had begun, and Micheletti was fighting alongside the other miners. He sold the building, but with unemployed miners and little money in town, the saloon didn't survive. Then in 1914 La Veta went dry! The Star Restaurant struggled for a short time, but closed. Since 1921 the building changed hands several times because most businesses only lasted a year or two. These included The Home Dairy Restaurant, a rooming house, The Tourist Cafe, The KK Cafe (who quickly changed their name to The Vienna Cafe), The Silver Dollar Beer Parlour & Grill, The Branding Iron Restaurant, a floral shop, The Shoe Man, and now Penelope's Western Emporium.

   Penny and Tony invite you to stop by, have a refreshing lemonade, and take a look around.