New Portsmouth Business Offers a Bit of the Past and 'Presents'

A new business on East Main Road is offering a bit of the past and "presents."

Cory Farms Past and Presents celebrated its grand opening during the Fourth of July weekend before a crowd of friends, supporters, shoppers and curiosity seekers.

"A lot of locals stopped by to see what was going on here," said proprietor Denys Eftekhar. "Many were happy to see the place had survived, and not as condos."

The historic two-acre property, dated from 1849, with its farmhouse and three barns, was purchased in 2010 by Eftekhar and her husband before the year-long renovation process began.

"This was a phenomenal opportunity to save a property from potential tear down and realize a dream I have had for nearly 20 years," she said.

"When something is gone, it is gone, and this property lent itself perfectly to the concept and vision I had for a retail space."

Working alongside creative designer Jennifer McIntosh, the two have scoured much of New England for attractive, unusual and high-quality items and have created an "exquisite environment" showcasing their hand-picked gifts and antiques. 

The store will sell antiques and gifts for home, garden and self, and each item has been thoughtfully chosen to reflect the owner's style.

As customers shopped, looked around and relaxed on the back patio with cooling glasses of Del's lemonade, Eftekhar said she enjoyed the atmosphere and and energy of the people.

"This place has a great vibe," she said. "We have surrounded ourselves with the things we love."

When asked if she had reservations about a new business opening in a questionable economy, Eftekhar replied, "we can't afford to have reservations."

Future plans are underway for a possible café in one of the out buildings and a garden for growing vegetables and flowers, rounding out the vision Eftekhar has for the space.

Cory Farms, located at 3124 East Main Road, is open Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sundays, noon to 4 p.m.; and by appointment.

For more information, visit www.coryfarmsri.com or call (401) 683-3124.