Music and antique shop to open in Milton with reception May 24

Frantic Frets Music and Antiques in Milton will host an opening reception from 5 to 9 p.m., Thursday, May 24.

Al and Mary Knight, proprietors, began antique collecting over 30 years ago, and have always had a passion for musical instruments and home décor. Now, the couple is ready to share their collections in their new Milton shop. Delaware’s newest vintage dealer, Frantic Frets specializes in rehoming and repurposing gently used household items and musical instruments.

Nearly 10 years ago, the Knights were searching for their retirement home. Far from retirement age, they realized they would like to relocate somewhere within an easy drive of their former hometown of Bloomingdale, N.J., and the beaches. Their search was also based on being able to house a business.

Exploring the Eastern Shore and Delmarva, the Knights, also known as “the Frantics,” stumbled upon Milton. “Maryland was really beautiful, but Milton, Delaware, spoke to us. The music scene, the people, the beaches – this is where we need to be,” said Mary.

Two years ago, they found their new home on Broadkill Road. The location offered an easy ride to the beaches and a place to open their dream shop. Still too young to retire, the Knights used their home to vacation while they retired in New Jersey.

During the winter, Mary came upon an employment opportunity at the Delaware Center for the Inland Bays. With her past volunteerism and work with Hackensack Riverkeeper, another clean water advocate, it seemed like it could be a natural fit for her. Al said, “When Mary showed me the job posting on the Lewes Chamber of Commerce website, I told her the job description was made for her.”  

 In February, Mary was hired as development coordinator for the CIB. Al, who was employed as an administrator by the Paterson Board of Education, was able to take early retirement.

The Frantics left two excellent jobs in New Jersey to pursue their dreams. After picking up and moving their entire existence to Milton, Mary said, “I will never turn back. I have a wonderful future with the CIB, and my work will make a difference for the environment. Between performing live music and running the business, I know Al will never be bored with retirement.”

“I am working harder now than ever before, but I intend to be productive, and a part of the community, not only of Milton, but also of Delaware,” said Al, who is also a musician. He is available for performances either as a soloist, or in a duo with Mary. With enough notice, he is also able to pull together a full band.

Al is happy to donate his talent for community events. In fact, he will be performing for Po’ Boys restaurant’s inaugural crawfish boil to benefit the SurfGimp Charitable Foundation, taking place Sunday, June 3, at Cape Henlopen State Park.

Anyone looking for a sailing ship’s rudder or a left-handed guitar should check out Frantic Frets. To sign up for the reception, go to www.eventbrite.com. Attendees who bring their tickets to the opening will be entered to win a special gift.