Yesterday's Treasures

There is an extraordinary shop in Southampton with an unexpected story called Yesterday’s Treasures. Sandra Murphy, who is involved in the daily logistics and management of the shop, shares with us a behind-the-scenes look at their intriguing international commerce. “We are a business that is unique to the world, not only the Hamptons.”

Carrying an array of themed, life-sized, animatronic and custom statues, Yesterday’s Treasures conducts 90% of their business online. The shop has been owned by Larry Schaeffer for over twenty years. Larry realized early on that the Internet sales demand was growing quickly, and soon after brought on custom artist Davis Murphy and his wife Sandra, to help accommodate this boom. The shop and websites (see below) boast items such as Marilyn Monroe, Elvis, chefs, sheep, cows, and dinosaurs, which are showing increased popularity. They even offer a President Obama replica! Beyond the options for online, phone, or in-store orders, these artistries are also available as party or seasonal rentals. The complete pirate ship set-up, equipped with an actual boat and pirates, is the buzz on the party scene. It was recently featured at a gala held at the Sands Point Castle in Port Washington.

The assortment of regular orders are from private collectors, film sets, restaurants, storefronts, and many large companies that you and I know very well. A glimpse into this corporate portfolio includes Ralph Lauren, Walt Disney, Busch Gardens, Ben & Jerry’s and one of the newest happy customers – Iron Chef Mark Forgione’s Revel.

Yesterday’s Treasures is located at 1547 County Road 39A, (631) 283-5591, lifesizedstatues.com or custom-statues.com.