E. Newcomer and Son Jewelry

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Enos Newcomer started his jewelry store in Nappanee in 1880. He purchased his stock from Mr. Stahly for $100. It is unsure if this was for the entire stock or just a down payment.

Enos was a watchmaker and bench worker. He was also a carpenter. He helped build the original B&O Depot and the Napanee House (Nappanee’s first hotel). Enos thought $8 was too much to pay for a watch.

In 1919, his son John joined the business and it went from being Newcomer’s Jewelry to E. Newcomer and Son. John was a watchmaker and an optician to repair glasses and watches.

John had two sons Reed and James. It was said that Reed always carried around a pocket full of diamonds. Reed added sewing machines and thimble to the store. James was the Mayor of Nappanee from 1972-1975. James added a variety of stemware, silver, housewares, and gifts to the store.

James’ son Brad joined the business in 1977 and he is a trained watch maker and jeweler. There has never been a day that a Newcomer hasn’t been in the building running it.