Has been family-run for last 85 years
Cowan’s Jewelers of New Windsor was recently bestowed the unique honor of being Assemblyman Colin Schmitt’s inaugural nominee to the State Historic Business Preservation Registry. The 85-year Orange County business joins about 100 others that have been formally inducted into the exclusive state program.
“I think it’s so fabulous,” owner Jeff Cowan said. “We’ve been dedicated to the community for 85 years and it’s very much appreciated to be acknowledged. The length we’ve been in business is something we’re very proud of.”
The 99th Assembly District representative visited the jewelry store recently and was joined by other local dignitaries to present Cowan with a plaque.
“It was an easy decision to make my inaugural nomination and induction into the exclusive State Historic Business Preservation Registry, Cowan’s Jewelers,” Schmitt said. “Cowan’s will now be forever enshrined in the state registry and be part of the amazing history of the state for all of the time.”
In order to be eligible for the honor, a business had to be nominated by a state official and have been in business for a minimum of 50 years. The program was created two years ago.
Cowan’s is a third-generation business founded in 1937 by Nathaniel Cowan.
“He had a business background and always had a love for jewelry,” Cowan said of his grandfather.
Nathaniel was a resident of Balmville and never drove a day in his life. He walked to the business’ two locations in the City of Newburgh. He retired in 1975 when the jewelry store moved to New Windsor. In 1946, Cowan’s father joined the business and worked for the next 70 years, retiring at the age of 94. Cowan began working beside his father 46 years ago and continues to operate it with his brother, Bruce, and wife, Denise.
While Nathaniel was new to the jewelry business, his son brought his expertise as a gemologist, watchmaker, and diamond setter. Cowan described his grandfather as outgoing while his father was more reserved.
Cowan actually started his career as a radio and television broadcaster having earned a college degree in broadcasting and communications. His first radio job was working a 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. shift. With his entire day free, he decided to spend his time working the family business. He fell in love with it and for many years balanced both jobs. While he currently put his broadcast career on hold, Cowan said he hasn’t entirely given it up.
“When I came into the business, I had the personality of my grandfather and knowledge from my father,” Cowan said. “It was a good combination.”
Taking the education he obtained from his father, Cowan expanded the business by learning more about jewelry and increasing the inventory, and he improved the customer service by developing more of a rapport with his customers. Cowan said he’s proud to maintain a repeat customer base, as well as the over 100 positive reviews on Google.
“I make sure everyone leaves my store happy,” he said. I work everyday to make sure they’re satisfied.”
