Why build a she-shed? “I come out here and … make a big mess, and then close the doors and go inside and make dinner, and it’s all just in here. It’s nice to be able to have a space that’s just mine.”  

According to the Centers for Disease Control, on most days, 16 percent of women aged 18 to 44 reported feeling “very tired” or “exhausted.” Additionally, 37 percent of women said they feel tense or stressed out at work. A she-shed can give a woman a space to be creative and/or just to get away from it all.  

Author Erika Kotite, who will be at the Midtown Mercantile Mall this Thursday, Friday and Saturday greeting fans and signing her book (Nov. 9, 10, 11) wrote a book on the movement: “She Sheds: A Room of Your Own.”  

The book talks about different styles of sheds and then looking at different sheds created for different purposes by various women. There are sheds for gardeners, artists, back yard sanctuaries, etc. They are truly wonderful and fun to see.

Here at The Mercantile we love Ms. Kotite’s book and we have created our own she-shed. Come on in, meet the author, see our she-shed and then you can look around the mall at our thousands of vintage items. Perhaps you’ll find the bits you like so you can personalize your own space. Your very own she-shed!

Carol Fenn 11-2017

Who doesn’t love a cowgirl? A cowgirl collectible that is! Fun to collect, but not that easy to find. It can be a challenge filling out a collection, especially if you’re looking for truly vintage. Reproductions abound, but vintage is better!

The popularity of the American cowgirl most likely began with Annie Oakley (August 13, 1860 – November 3, 1926). Annie was an American sharpshooter and exhibition shooter. Her amazing talent first came to light when she was a mere 15 year old girl, winning a shooting match against a traveling-show marksman. Oakley joined Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show. She became a renowned international star, performing before royalty and heads of state.

One thing I’ll say about cowgirl related collecting is that there is a lot of variety. For example, the vintage and antique cowgirl art and advertising. Some of it surprisingly sexy!  Some of it just plain awesome.

There are cowgirl figurines. Salt and pepper shakers, etc.  Also look for paper dolls and playing cards.  You never know where you might find one of these gals!

And of course Coca Cola got into the act with some great cowgirl depictions!

Some cowgirl stuff is collectible AND wearable. Like this wonderful cowgirl dress that is in the Midtown Mercantile Antique Mall right now. She’s in booth #1118 for only $30!

So put on your cowgirl boots and come on in to the mall and roundup some cowgirl collectibles!

Carol Fenn 11-2017