A new chapter for Truro businessman
‘It’s time not to have to worry about having to be at work every day at nine o’clock’
For a number of years, Uneeda Sewing Machines & Custom Framing has been a popular
Truro business. What’s been unique is that customers visiting 628 Prince Street could have picture framing done, a sewing machine repaired – or both. But, recently a RE/Max for sale sign appeared out front of the business.
“I decided I would sell the house and the framing business,” said Frank Organ, 65, of Truro.
“After 31 years of working nine to five – six days a week and being a one-man show – I decided it was time to cut back.”
Planning to sell the house and the framing business separately, Organ will continue specializing in the sewing machine service work.
“The way I see it unfolding, I will have the same telephone number and a Facebook page,” the former 10-year Singer Sewing Machine Company dealer, said. “I’ll service machines by chance or appointments; I’ll offer in-home service or pick up and delivery. Because the population is getting older, customers won’t have to struggle to bring their sewing machines in to me, I’ll go to their homes and possibly service their machines on sight.”
Organ plans to operate the down-sized business from a house he and his wife Bev own located on Highway 2 in Lower Onslow.
“Since I purchased Uneeda Hobby in 1986, being in business has been a way of life. It was an enjoyable career but also a daily commitment. Like a farmer, I had to show up for work every day or I was out of business. In some ways it wasn’t like a job but for 31 years I had to be available every day.”
Organ had a real passion for picture framing.
“I looked forward to helping customers choose their colours regarding framing and mats complimenting the pictures, prints and art work. I had good customers; having something framed was very personal to them. When a customer puts a photo on the wall, it’s something they look at every day, it is
something that is very important to them.”
There are several renowned local artists Organ framed for.
“I had the honour to frame for Alan Syliboy, Robb Scott and other artists who are well known around the local area.”
In servicing sewing machines, Organ found similarities to the picture framing business.
“People again depended on me for service. When they needed their sewing machines, they wanted to be able to use them confidently without any problems. The sewing machine service involves many area homesewers, dry cleaners, suit stores, schools and tailors. I’ve been to many schools within an hour of Truro servicing machines.”
Organ met many accommodating customers.
“I’ve met some of the nicest people in the world. Customers never appeared concerned
with the price being too high, it seemed to be all about receiving a good product. Both services worked out well; I really enjoyed my career. ”
Organ appeared thrilled as he explained that he is approaching the future with free time being available to him like never before.
“It’s time not to have to worry about being to work every day at nine o’clock. I’ll have time free to have coffee with friends. I’m looking forward to my day being freed up considerably. I will be answering the telephone but things will be by chance or appointment.”
Organ has played guitar for more than 50 years as a hobby.
“I play in a local band called ‘Flashback.’ Duncan MacLeod and I play guitars, Pete Goguan plays bass and Stanley Foote is our drummer. We play for benefits, we practise one night
a week and we jam one night a week. I’m certainly looking forward to having more time for my music.”
Organ said with family living in Western Canada, semi-retirement will probably include more travel.
A native of North Sydney, Organ attended Acadia University followed by four years working in Richmond, B.C. Arriving in Truro in 1976, he was the dairy herdsman at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College in Bible Hill from 1980 to 1992. During his first six years in business, Organ continued his job as dairy herdsman.
Organ and his wife Bev have six grown children and three grandchildren.