Photo story and text by Jessica Blahut
In a nondescript barn down a long drive off of one of Greensboro, Georgia’s scenic small-town roads lies Pinch of the Past, an architectural antiques shop owned and operated by Noreene Parker. While antique shops are a hallmark of America’s rural landscapes, Pinch of the Past elevates the tradition by offering salvaged architectural elements of historical and architectural significance taken from condemned homes and buildings across the state of Georgia. Parker’s road to this line of business is a long one.
“I’m from a family of American craftsmen,” said Parker.
Growing up, Parker was influenced by both of her grandfathers and father as each had a hand in building, construction, or hardware supply in some capacity. She spent her summers on work sites with her family, learning all about the work and craftsmanship that goes in to designing and constructing homes, churches and other buildings. When it came time to go to university, Parker chose to get a formal education in architecture and design. Eventually, she established her own architecture firm. Her attention to detail set her apart from her competitors. However, a few years after opening her successful firm, she was involved in a serious car accident. She was left with many significant injuries including the loss of part of a finger and partial paralyzation. Not knowing if she would ever reach full recovery, she sold her firm to a larger architecture company. After spending a few years in and out of hospital, receiving physical therapy, surgery, and convalescing she was able to gain full mobility. It was then that she was faced with the decision of how to move on with her career.
“What I thought I would really like to do,” said Parker, “would be go into the architectural restoration business, and more of a hands on than just design.”
And thus Pinch of the Past was established. Drawing on her love of the old architectural traditions of the South, Parker was inspired to salvage what she could from homes and buildings that had not been kept in working order, even renovating historic homes in Savannah, Georgia, in the beginning of this pursuit. Parker realized that though not all buildings of historical significance could be saved, architectural elements big and small could. She started collecting doors, mantelpieces, ironwork, nobs, and any other household object one could imagine. Her love for the well crafted furnishings of an earlier time inspired her to recycle and reuse what others were willing to cast aside. Parker’s extensive knowledge of history and design inspires her to share her passions with customers.
“I thoroughly enjoy finding all these old pieces, and the challenge of trying to enlighten other people as to what these things are.” said Parker, “I do like to pass along a little history lesson with them when they go.”
Jessica Blahut
I am passionate about storytelling whether it’s through design, photography, a fashion designer’s collection or between the covers of a book. Over the past couple of years I’ve studied and practiced photography skills through my classes at UofSC and am excited to have this opportunity to learn more and improve my skills as a visual storyteller.