Shop Talk : Westward ho
By Katryn Yerdon
Published: August 20, 2009
It's time to head off the beaten path. There are so many shopping opportunities in Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, and Vineyard Haven, we might forget the many other shopping options we have up-Island. While they might take a little time to get to, they are definitely worth it.
Find a bit of everything at Alley's General Store in West Tisbury, from aprons to apricot jam. Photo by Katryn YerdonIf you haven't done so in awhile, take a trip to Aquinnah, reacquaint yourself with the view of the Gay Head Cliffs, and browse the shops there. Yes, they have the assorted tourist trinkets, but they also carry some treasures. The shops feature an assortment of wonderful jewelry like silver jeweled bracelets and earrings starting at $24. You can also discover some Island made, traditional jewelry like the Wampanoag sailors rope bracelet ($5), or jewelry made with local wampum or sea glass. While there, peruse the wonderful assortment of items designed to spruce up your summer garden and porch.
Then swing over to Menemsha and stop in The Copper Works or Menemsha Blues. The Copper Works offers low relief models of fish and old whaling ships by Capt. Scott McDowell, and olive oil lamps made from recycled material by Laurisa Rich, wife of the former Chilmark police chief.
Menemsha Blues carries a variety of their own logo clothes and currently has a selection of polo shirts at half price. Ask about their item of the week for a super discount.
Heading back down-Island, visit Alley's General Store in West Tisbury - a wonderful catchall place with everything including Boogie Boards ($20), toys, paint, nails and household goods, a summer hat ( $18.99), penny candy, and a butterfly/fish net ($4.79). Having a barbeque, but forgot a few groceries and charcoal? No problem, they have that too. It is fun for the whole family with all the unusual kitchen wares like the unique doll-shaped grater ($27.19), utilitarian tools, and toys like the Tootin' Turtle Kickball ($9.99).
Finish up the trip with a visit to Martha's Vineyard Glass Works on State Road in West Tisbury. All their items are handmade, versatile, and unique. You can pick up a vase starting at $60, a bouquet basket, or a papoose pitcher. Glassworks is currently featuring a wonderful new glassware series called Frut Lup, which starts at $48. Make it a point to visit the second floor to see their museum style pieces, and if possible, stop by Monday through Saturday between 10 am and 12 noon or 1 to 5 pm to see glass blowers in action.
If you are like most of us this week, you will be heading to West Tisbury for the annual Agricultural Fair, which places you in a prime spot to continue exploring. Enjoy.
