One of the most historic businesses in Charlottetown is up for sale.
The Queen Street Meat Market on University Avenue is looking for a buyer.
Myron and Anna Turner are selling after operating the meat and seafood shop since March 1, 1973. But the business dates back well into the 1800s in Charlottetown.
Carol MacInnis of Charlottetown, a long-time customer at the meat market, said the business deserves to fall into good hands.
"It's the best place in town,'' MacInnis said matter-of-factly. "They have a great variety and great, great customer service. The (Turners) are going to be missed dearly.''
Myron said he and his wife are in their 60s and the time to move on has simply come.
"We've been at it, oh, it might be 39 years. I'm getting up there (in age),'' Myron Turner said. "I'm having a great time, though.''
City Coun. Mitchell Tweel, who represents area residents, said the Turners are phenomenal people.
"These people are very entrenched into the community, into this city,'' Tweel said. "They are great role models for people wanting to get into business and they are to be commended for supporting local farmers and fishermen.''
To walk into Queen Street Meat Market is to venture into the old-fashioned butcher shop. Sawdust covers the floor to protect feet from fat drippings and they still use butcher paper to wrap their meat, sealed with good old string.
"It kind of gives the place a nice, fresh smell,'' said Anna.
What really stands out is the old time-worn and tarnished cash register. They're not sure how old it is but one marking on it seems to indicate it was purchased in 1951. And, they still use it for all cash transactions.
Myron, 67, said he's entering the retirement years with mixed feelings.
"I'm scared,'' he said. "I might be crazy with nothing to do (but) I think it's time. Me and (Anna) might go on a honeymoon.''
Many people often ask why they still call it Queen Street Meat Market considering it's located on University Avenue.
Over the years, the business has been located on North River Road and Queen Street, where it was when the Turners took it over.
Myron said the name is tradition.
"The name was more important than the street (it was on).''
Anna said she was 23 years old and he was 27 when they bought the business. When asked how she feels to be leaving the business, she echoes her husband's sentiments.
"It's time to do something else. We're both in our 60s and you just never know. We're going to miss it so much, it's scary. We've had it as long as we've been married.''
Twitter.com/DveStewart
Congratulations Myron and Anna. This should give you more time for Maple Syrup production. Have a great retirement!!!!