Mini Thrift Dispatch from Maine

Greetings from Deer Isle, a small island located in Maine’s Penobscot Bay. I’m writing this from a wooden picnic table overlooking Mill Pond, typing around several brave ants as they dance across my computer keyboard in search of the last remaining crumbs of banana sesame cake. If you’re ever in need of a creative retreat, check out The Ark in Deer Isle — it’s an absolute oasis and would be the perfect spot to write the next great American novel (or the next gripping Romantasy series, for that matter!)

We’ve been soaking in the glory of Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island (FYI: I just learned from two locals its pronounced DESSERT… mind blown) the past four days. While the island is abundant with beautiful hikes, incredible food, and opportunities for relaxation, it is sadly lacking in thrift stores. SO when I saw a small thrift store bursting at the seams with good finds in what looked to be an old house along the road between MDI and Deer Isle, I screeched at Jake to turn the car around.

The Ark Pope Memorial Animal Shelter Thrift Shop is one of those secondhand stores I dream about — not part of a large chain, so pricing still feels extremely affordable, and located near an affluent area, so the donations are top tier. The first piece I found when I walked in the door was an antique blue and white Wedgwood piece for a whopping ONE DOLLAR.

The shop is organized by category and each category has its own room. Art is located in the room on the left when you walk in the front door, the lamps and other home decor are located on the right. The tableware section was especially impressive and featured antique English transferware pieces starting at $3 and brand new Spode Blue Italian pieces for $8 each. I snagged a vintage enamelware funnel from Sweden for $2 and a vintage ceramic citrus squeezer made in France for $3.

Upstairs, you’ll find curtains, bed linens, and as many crafting materials as your heart desires. I ended up purchasing a set of custom pinch pleated drapes in a lovely yellow Schumacher chintz for $50. There was a whole room dedicated to Christmas decorations stacked from floor to ceiling. Wish I would have had more time to explore!

Finally, an antiques dealer is liquidating her collection of Folk and Americana pieces on the far left part of the shop. Prices were understandably a bit higher over here, generally ranging between $25 and $195. I loved her collection of handmade Shaker boxes made in Canterbury, NH and handwoven antique baskets of all shapes and sizes.

The shop is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10am - 4pm. The very kind volunteer working the register mentioned they are hoping to incorporate a flea market on Saturday mornings as well. All proceeds go to benefit The Ark Pope Memorial Animal Shelter’s low-cost spay/neuter program that serves Hancock County and The Blue Hill Peninsula, so your shopping will help to fund a good cause.

Bookmark this thrift store for your trip to Maine this summer.

Happy hunting!

Xx Abby