'We're a museum basically.' Backroad Gypsy offers quirky items at downtown Massillon shop
MASSILLON – If you're looking for some quirky items to add to your collection, a downtown gift shop might be a treasure trove worth checking out.
The Backroad Gypsy Oddities & Collectibles opened last fall at 109 Lincoln Way W and has between 20,000 and 30,000 items available for sale. Much of the stock includes clothing, jewelry, artwork, bobbleheads, lamps clothing, sports memorabilia, and mugs and glasses.
"We're that bright, shiny object. We're a museum, basically," said part-owner Dave Hale, who shares much of the day-to-day business duties with co-owner Shelly Daniel.
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"It's about the variety and giving people something to do in downtown Massillon," he added.
Hale and Daniel brought their knack for unique gifts and memorabilia from the Majestic Turnaround antiques store in Canton.
Tarot readings, handmade jewelry, Tiger gear available at Backroad Gypsy
The Backroad Gypsy works with about 40 vendors, offering tarot readings, handmade jewelry and art, as well as Massillon Tiger wear. Ownership is split among five equal partners that include Hale and Daniel.
Neon and old business signs, books, dime novels, vintage furniture and tables are other items offered. Hale said prices range from 20 cents to probably $3,000 per piece.
"We have stuff that was in China two weeks ago," said Hale, adding that much of the store's merchandise also comes from estate sales in Ohio and nearby states.
Daniel operated Ultimate Illusion beauty shop from 1993 to about 2013 in Perry Township. She always had an affinity for timeless things.
"I'm really into the antiques and the old," she said.
Backroad Gypsy is in the former home of EpaTHeKeri and Root 2 Rise Studio and located just east of Golden Tiger Tea, 115 Lincoln Way W.
"There was an opening in Massillon, and we took it," said Hale.
The gift shop is open from noon to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday; as well as noon to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The shop is closed on Mondays.
Reach Steven at steven.grazier@indeonline.com. On Twitter: @sgrazierINDE
This article originally appeared on The Independent: Backroad Gypsy Oddities & Collectibles has thousands of unique items
