About Us
Market Crafts—A Bit of History
This little store selling quality Canadian handcrafts was opened in 1980 to provide a craft component to the historic Covent Garden Market. The founding partners were Mary Barr and Suzanne deClercq, a local potter who was involved only a short time. In 1982, five new partners joined Mary in the business, namely: Genet Hodder and Margery Cartwright, potters; Pam Samuels, a weaver; Darlene Abuda, textile artist; and Betty MacDougall. This six-pack of partners grew the business during the prosperous 80s in the old market building. As partners moved or changed direction, others joined the partnership: Cathy Chapin, a watercolour artist; Pat Zannier, a weaver; and Cathy Gibbons, a knitter.
During demolition and construction of a new market building, the store was moved to Dundas Street where Market Crafts opened a temporary market along with several other merchants. The current new Covent Garden Market building opened to great fanfare in 1999, and has been a tremendous boost to business, both within the market and in the downtown area.
Over the years the partners have changed, but loyalty to Market Crafts and our concept of great service and quality handcrafts is a strong and lasting bond.
Market Crafts is owned today by Genet Hodder, Cathy Gibbons and Pat Zannier.
Partners past and present celebrated the 25th anniversary of Market Crafts in 2005.
L to R: Betty Macdougall, Mary Barr, Genet Hodder, Pat Zannier, Cathy Gibbons, Pam Samuels.
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