“100 Years of The Little Traveler”
An exhibition celebrating Geneva’s most iconic destination.
Kate Howard grew up with a love of travel and adventure through her experience with her father’s Howard Shipyards. Kate and Edmond Raftery came to Geneva in 1915 and later purchased 404 South Third Street. Kate had several connections with counts and ambassadors who brought her rare and unique items from all over the world. She displayed these items on her grand piano and invited friends over to purchase them. On September 29, 1922, it was announced in The Geneva Republican newspaper that “The Raftery cottage will hereafter be the home of the Geneva Gift Shop, under the supervision of Mrs. Edmond Raftery.”
At the age of 52 and with no previous business experience, Kate Howard Raftery started Geneva’s Little Traveler. The Little Traveler was the first residence turned business on South Third Street and Kate encouraged others to start their own businesses, including the famous Mill Race Inn, Robin’s Book Shop and Marian Michael’s Children’s Clothing Shop.
Come explore the story of this 100-year-old business that put Geneva on the map as a high fashion, antique mecca and artsy town. View Kate’s going-away wedding coat, puppets used to entertain children, and hand-painted dressing room doors by world-renown artist, William Moulis.
This exhibition will be on display through December 23, 2022.