Jenny’s opens in downtown Houlton

Pioneer Times photograph/Gloria Austin
READY FOR CHRISTMAS — Jenny’s located in Union Square in Houlton is a combination of local craft and antique vendors under one roof. The craftmen are ready for Christmas, as Jenny Williams, owner of Jenny’s, poses with homemade tree ornaments.
By Gloria Austin
Staff Writer
    HOULTON — A new business has opened in Union Square in Houlton. Jenny’s is eclectic in its nature, as several vendors have come together under one roof to display their goods.
    Owner Jenny Williams, a Houlton native, opened her store on Nov. 15 because she was retired and wanted something to do. Two years ago, she had a seasonal shop on the North Road prior to purchasing the former Infinity (Benn’s pool hall) building adjacent to Town and Country.  
    “It seemed to go pretty well seasonally,” said Williams. “This is the first time I will have everything in one place.”
    Jenny’s is located in 3 Union Square and is open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday noon to 4 p.m. After Christmas, Jenny’s will only be open five days a week.
    “This is just an extension of my hobby more or less,” Williams said.
    For this month, the crafters are concentrated on the Christmas season, as the seven rooms are filled with traditional to present-day items. Jenny’s has several rooms stocked with antiques, while others are filled with Christmas crafts.
Pioneer Times photograph/Gloria Austin
GLITTERING GLASS — Elaine Logie paints on glassware and is displaying her works of art at Jenny’s in Union Square in Houlton.
    After the holiday, Jenny’s crafters will carry more vintage items, with a few more antiques, while still concentrating on crafts.
    “There is a variety of people we represent, who have a diversity of skills and craftsmanship,” said Williams. “We have a lot of talent in the area.”
    Though Jenny’s is filled with specialty items, Williams doesn’t offer just one area of expertise. Among the range of local craftsmen and collectors who are showcasing their products at Jenny’s are: American Doll Clothes by Carol Hand; Framed Garden pressed flowers by Janet Murakami; Rocks Cry Out quilted pieces by Sharon Walker; colored glass and crocheted rag rugs and other items by Elaine Logie and her daughter; a variety of primitive and collectibles by Shelly and Vaughn Farrar; homemade soaps by Lorraine Springer; knitting by Sue Wilmot and Williams added vintage and antique items, as well.
    Also among those vendors, one local person has started an antiques room, carrying old-fashioned pieces of machinery, furniture and  more.
    “We have a cacophony of things here,” Williams added.
    Many of those displaying their craftsmanship are also participating in craft fairs locally and around the state. This November was the first time in 25 years that Williams did not participate in the Houlton Parks and Recreation Department’s Winter Craft Fair.
    “I wanted to provide a place for some of the local crafters to show their wares,” said Williams. “Eventually, I would like to offer some classes on crafting. A lot of girls would like to learn to sew.”
     Those girls will be lucky, as Williams is a former home economics teacher.
    “I like sharing what I do and what I know,” she said. “One night it may be making wool mittens, snowman or a feedbag tote.”
    Though personally, Williams has a passion for antiques, she is well-versed in sewing.
    “I would like to help people learn new skills and complete projects,” added Williams.
Pioneer Times photograph/Gloria Austin
OLD-FASHIONED — Jenny’s in Union Square in Houlton has a room filled with vintage farm-related items like this spinning wheel.