BARRY’S BAY – A lot can happen in three generations. Styles come and go and traditions are passed down to the next generation.
Collin Burke has seen it all during his time as a local jeweller. As wedding season fast approaches, he has some useful tips and hints for brides – and grooms – to be.
P. Burke and Son Jewellers started in 1923 by Daniel and George Burke. George ventured off to pursue optometry, so Daniel took over and started up his own shop in Killaloe. He sold and repaired jewellery, watches and clocks.
Daniel’s son Paul, who attended watch-making school at George Brown College, bought the business in 1971. Paul and his wife Doris Burke continued the tradition and in 1996, their son Collin came on board. That was around the same time the store moved to Barry’s Bay.
Three years ago, Collin and his wife Lara bought the business and have been operating it ever since.
“We are a family oriented business,” Collin said.
His aunt and uncle run the Bancroft store, which is independent from the one in Barry’s Bay.
Advancements in technology have changed drastically over the years. New equipment makes the job more efficient, too.
Get your January 27, 2016 edition of The Valley Gazette to read the full story.