About Us

Much of Peter's life has been involved in the mineral industry. Peter is a fifth generation member of the Barton family, owners of Barton Mines, in North River, NY. Barton Mines is the longest standing continually operating mine in the United States and quarries Garnet; used for industrial abrasives. Peter grew up in the mines and worked in the family business for 22 years. Peter's endeavors then took him on some exciting diamond and gold mining expeditions in different parts of the world before he settled back in the States. After a short time operating an Outfitters' shop in Lake Placid, NY, Peter again became involved in the mineral business, this time with granite used as dimensional stone, that is to say, he was the first to take the family's Garnet and produce it into block form, cut it into slabs and use it for kitchen counter tops and vanities. Peter settled in Ballston Spa, NY and in August of 2007, Granites of North America was formed.