If you’ve been to Maine in the summertime, you know that there’s certainly no shortage of gift shops. If you need a lobster Christmas ornament in July, a t-shirt with a lighthouse on the front or even a dozen whoopie pies for the folks back home, you’ll have no problem here in Vacationland. But, this shop is completely different and well worth a visit!
The Maine State Prison was built in Thomaston in 1824, but relocated to Warren in 2002.
Maine Department of Corrections / Facebook
But, it’s not the prison we’re telling you about today…
Alexandra S / Yelp
It’s the gift shop that sells hand crafted goods made by inmates!
Alexandra S / Yelp
The Maine State Prison Showroom has been around for over 50 years.
Maine State Prison Showroom / Facebook
Today it is located on Main Street in Thomaston.
Maine State Prison Showroom / Facebook
What began with pressing license plates and a few other small crafts has become a place to buy wonderful gifts at great prices.
Alexandra S / Yelp
While some items are simple, others are much more intricate.
Maine State Prison Showroom / Facebook
Many of the items are beautifully crafted and show the true talent that exists within the men and women who create them.
Maine State Prison Showroom / Facebook
Maine State Prison Showroom / Facebook
Many are crafted with a Maine maritime theme in mind.
Maine State Prison Showroom / Facebook
And while visiting the showroom makes for a fun day, over 60 vendors sell prison-made goods throughout Maine!
Maine State Prison Showroom / Facebook
The creative outlet is meant to help prepare for re-entry into the mainstream.
Alexandra S / Yelp
But for visitors, it offers a place to enjoy some wonderful handmade goods that can only be found in Maine.
Maine State Prison Showroom / Facebook
The best part? There’s a real sense of humor seen throughout the store!
Maine State Prison Showroom / Facebook
The Maine State Prison Showroom is located at 358 Main Street in Thomaston.
Devon D / Yelp They’re open from 9am to 5pm, 7 days a week! They can be reached at (207) 354-9237.
If you missed it, check out one of our favorite recent articles that provides a pretty accurate rundown of the things people think when they move away from Maine. Click here to read it!
Maine Department of Corrections / Facebook
Alexandra S / Yelp
Maine State Prison Showroom / Facebook
Devon D / Yelp
They’re open from 9am to 5pm, 7 days a week! They can be reached at (207) 354-9237.
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