Tharpe Antiques and Decorative Arts, a consignment and retail shop operated by the Talbot Historical Society and staffed by a group of loyal volunteers, is undergoing major changes. Located in the historic Mary Jenkins House (circa 1780) and a retail fixture in Easton, Tharpe is moving in May to a new storefront location, directly across the street at 25 S. Washington Street. Tharpe will continue to accept items for consignment by appointment at its current location so the new shop will be well stocked when it opens.
The expanded retail space will give Tharpe an opportunity to offer customers a larger inventory of highly desirable items. According to volunteer Bettie Baer and board member, Janet Bascom, “we’ve had to pass on some beautiful items because our current space could not accommodate them. We’re very excited about moving across the street, and feel we can better serve our loyal clientele and attract new shoppers in this location.”
As part of Tharpe’s retail upgrade, potential consignors of large furniture items may call for an appointment to have their items previewed at home by a member of the Tharpe volunteer team. There is no cost for this value-added service.
After years in the consignment business, Tharpe’s volunteer staff knows their clientele. “There is an increase in requests for quality furniture that can be purchased at a reasonable price. People are more cost conscious than ever and they’re looking for good value. We want to educate potential buyers and explain which features to look for in a good piece of furniture,” said Jean McHale, a board member who is helping to spearhead the move.
Local history buffs may remember the 25 S. Washington Street location when it housed Cherbonnier’s Fabric Shop. Now the building’s large Victorian storefront display windows will be used to attract customers to Tharpe.
“This is the first step in a multi-stage process of revitalizing the Talbot Historical Society campus. Other plans to move services and programs are underway and will be made public at the annual meeting on May 12,” according to Joan Levy, the Society’s Executive Director.
Tharpe Antiques and Decorative Arts profits support the mission of the Talbot Historical Society, to preserve, communicate and celebrate the rich heritage of Talbot County. For more information visit the Tharpe Antiques Facebook page or call 410-822-0773.
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