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Native American art and community spirit at newly opened location

 

COLUMBUS—The town of Columbus has a new option for its eclectic shopping needs with the opening of Bears Den Trading Post downtown.

Jennifer English and her husband, originally from Startex, S.C., opened Bears Den Trading Post in mid-December, bringing with them “quality products at a lower price” and Native American-themed art and gifts. English and her husband are of Shawnee, Blackfoot and Cherokee heritage. 

English spent most of her career in management for large companies and decided she wanted to do something more creative. “ I’ve always been artistic,” she said. “Bears Den was always a dream.”

“I chose Columbus for several reasons. One was location. I love the history of old small towns,” English explained. “I want to give back to the community because they don’t have a local Walmart to drive to get home goods.”

Bears Den Trading Post offers several different services and products, including local honey and jams, handmade jewelry and crafts, and liquidated merchandise. 

“I want to teach young and older people how to teach each other beading, quilting and painting.   I love learning and teaching,” English said. “We want to preserve the history of the town; to teach the younger youth the older ways. We also try to support the local safety services.” 

Bears Den Trading Post is located at 222 East Mills Street in downtown Columbus. It is open Monday and Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call (864) 478-4212.