Byline: Clayton Hensley

Oct. 2--Clinton's commercial history is rooted in the pearl trade, but in recent years, the downtown area's shimmering past has been somewhat dulled. Now merchants are hoping relics from the past will provide the key to a brighter future for the city.

At the beginning of the 21st century only a handful of businesses lined Market Street, the historic center of commerce in Clinton. Move forward to 2007. Clinton is now home to more than a dozen antique stores representing more than 70 antique vendors. Most are in the downtown area and are proving when it comes to antiques and collectibles there is strength in numbers.

"It really has evolved ...