Six Generations of History
Hello, my name is Kris Cornwell. My experience with jewelry started as soon as I was born. From the time I can remember, I spent countless hours at my grandfather, Pa’s, store. He had a desk in the back full of costume jewelry that I would search through and play with. My friends loved visiting the store because we would dress up and play pretend with all of my Pa’s treasures.
The history of Cornwell Jewelers began in 1832. In 1831, John Cornwell arrived in Athens, Ohio to attend Ohio University. John opened his jewelry shop in 1832 in the upstairs of Ten South Court Street.
With fortunes being made in the California Gold Rush, John locked his door in 1852 and headed west. No one is certain if John struck gold, but in 1856 he returned to Athens and reopened his shop. Cornwell Jewelers has not been closed since.
The second generation of the family to operate the business was D.C. Cornwell, who moved the store to the main level of the building in 1869. Cornwell Jewelers has remained in this space since 1869. Charles A. Cornwell became the third generation to run the store. Everyone knew Charlie, my great, great uncle, for he was often found sitting at his bench, eye loupe in place.
My Pa, Walter Cornwell, took over in 1948. Pa worked at several places in downtown Athens before taking over the store. Old timers remember him operating his snack bar called “Corny’s Corn Crib” in the Berry Hotel on North Court Street.
My Dad became active in the business in the late 1960’s. He and Pa often didn’t see eye-to-eye on how to run the business. With Pa’s approval he opened a second branch of the store called “Cornwell & Son Jewelers” on the corner of Court and Union Street. In 1987 the two stores merged, and the The South Court 
Street location was chosen for its long history.
I never thought I would find a career in the jewelry industry. I graduated from college, then went to graduate school planning on a career in education. One afternoon I was talking with my mom about my future (I would be graduating in a couple of months) and she began discussing a career in the jewelry store. I said that really was not of interest to me. Although I loved wearing jewelry, I didn’t think I would enjoy working at the store. She pulled at my heartstrings and said, “Your father and I want someone from the family to be involved with the jewelry store – and you are our only hope! Please, try it for six months and if you don’t like it then we’ll understand.” Reluctantly, I agreed and I’ve been working since 1994.
To carry on the tradition that began over 150 years ago has been the most rewarding aspect of working at Cornwell Jewelers. I work with people every day who are celebrating an occasion. My family’s store has been privileged to be a part of so many people’s memories.
In 2002 we moved to a freestanding store. It was a hard decision for us to leave a spot with such a history, but we are very happy to have a spacious show room and parking.
I hope you enjoy our web site. If you ever have a chance to come to Seventy Seven North Court Street, you can see our memorabilia of the past six generations on display in the store.
Inside Cornwell Jewelers
Here are some photos from inside our store. Stop by any time and have a look around!
