Central Ave’s Iron Pelican Offers Unique Antiques

ST. PETERSBURG – When a space opened up in the Grand Central District a few months back, Daniel McCoy’s first thought was: “We’re going to do this.”

So, they did.

McCoy owns and operates the Iron Pelican with his wife, Hillary.

Daniel had envisioned opening a place of his own, and with Hillary’s business savvy, it seemed like destiny.

They set up shop at 2454 Central Ave., next door to .

After serving in the Marines, Daniel went to the University of Tampa, where he graduated with a degree in History.

Bartending had been his income before and during college, so he decided to stick with it for a bit longer. 

At 36, Daniel says that he’s about 70 in the world of bartending. He decided to start transitioning into a different lifestyle, one where he would be home for dinner and in bed before 5 a.m.

“Bartending is fun, but it’s not fulfilling,” said Daniel. “But doing something like this is fulfilling.”

The McCoys frequent garage and estate sales, auctions and wherever else they might find a possible deal. Sometimes they find objects in good condition, but a lot of the time the product is in bad shape.

Daniel and Hillary then purchase and restore it, to produce a modernized antique furnishing. 

What’s more is that the prices are affordable, considering that people sometimes pay extra just for the status of owning an antique. From dressers to desks to trunks, the prices range from $89 to $300 at the Iron Pelican.

The Iron Pelican also has vintage decor: license plates, cameras and framed artwork are some of the other offerings. 

Although the success of their first business together is exciting, the McCoys are keeping their bases covered.

Daniel still tends bar four nights a week, and Hillary is a dental hygienist.

“With any new business, you have to make sure you have a backup plan,” Daniel explained.

Work consumes a lot of their time, but the McCoys are happy to be in their current position.

“I feel like I’m where I should be, and I feel very comfortable,” said Daniel. “I’m very, very content.”

In light of the holiday season, the McCoys are running a donation drive for . Bring in something for the kitties and pups and receive 10 percent off your purchase at the Iron Pelican.