Our Story

Welcome to Burns & Co—a family story that’s been unfolding since 1893! It all started with Johnny Magee, who opened a humble boot shop that quickly became a staple in Draperstown. When Johnny’s daughter Vera and her husband Eddie Burns took over, they added a dash of style and transformed it into a bustling drapery store. Vera was a force to be reckoned with, and legend has it that no one left her shop empty-handed!

The 1950s brought change, and the family transitioned into shirt manufacturing, operating three busy factories. But as times changed and imports became easier, the factories had to close their doors. Not ones to be defeated, the family reopened their beloved clothes shop right on the corner
as you enter Draperstown.

Unfortunately, the shop faced a fiery end during the troubles in 1975. That’s when Pat, fresh from university, was called back to the family fold. He didn’t just pick up the pieces—he expanded the business, opening a new store in Coleraine. And here’s where the story
gets romantic: Pat interviewed Terese McKenna, who was so determined to work there that she quit her secretarial course. A whirlwind romance followed, with Pat joking to his friends that he couldn’t afford her commission, so naturally, he married her! They’ve been a dynamic duo ever since, celebrating 44 years of marriage.

Now, the next generation—Patrick, Jamie, and Katie—have joined the business, making Burns & Co a proud seven-generation family affair. We’re more than just a shop; we’re a piece of history, a love story, and a community tradition.

Pop in and say hello—you’re always welcome here!