Hidden Gem: Unique Holiday Gifts are at the Maine Prison Showroom

It's on my shopping list every year to stop by the Maine State Prison Showroom in Thomaston for beautiful and unique gifts.

Maine's Prison System Has a Store But Many Have Never Heard of It

I'm constantly amazed at how many people don't realize that the showroom exists. As a kid, I remember going for weekend drives with my family and exploring interesting destinations. More than one of those trips included shopping at the Maine State Prison Showroom, where we looked at handmade products made of wood. I had a jewelry box for years made of cedar and lined in red felt that I loved.

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A Variety of Products are For Sale, With Something for Everyone

When you walk into the showroom on Route 1 in Thomaston, the smell of the wood hits you immediately. Shelves at the front of the store are lined with smaller gifts, like unique cutting boards, boxes of all sizes, and knickknacks.

There's a toy section in the back, with wooden boats, cars, and even cribbage boards in various shapes and sizes. Plus innovations on the traditional rocking horse, like a rocking lobster boat or motorcycle.

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I fell in love with a wooden dollhouse with two fireplaces inside. I mean, how adorable is this?

And if you know someone looking for furniture, they have plenty. Unlike some pasteboard pieces you find these days, all the shelves, desks, and other furniture are great quality, sturdy, and beautiful.

Maine's Prison Showroom is Part of a Program to Help Teach Valuable Skills

Maybe the coolest part of the Maine State Prison Showroom is what it represents for the people who produce the merchandise. The Maine Correctional Industries Program not only produces quality items but also provides residents with the opportunity to learn marketable job skills. It teaches work ethics and responsibility, qualities that will serve them well once they're released.