FARMINGTON — Two Broadway storefronts have ceased operations and a third has closed its shop but will offer products through other venues.
SugarWood Gallery closed Dec. 24. Located at Broadway and High Street, it opened in 2001 as a collaboration of 15 Maine WoodNet member businesses. The gallery featured wood-based products made in western Maine.
Janice and Dan Maxham, owners of SugarWood Gallery, which closed Dec. 24. Dee Menear/Franklin Journal
Dan and Janice Maxham acquired the gallery in 2008. Under their ownership, the gallery became a place for a variety of artisans to showcase their work.
The couple instituted an Artist of the Month series which gave locals an opportunity to exhibit their talents.
“Local artists got a lot of first-time exposure with Artist of the Month,” Dan said. “It allowed them to get their feet wet. Over 100 different artists were introduced through the series.”
Over the years, more than 120 artisans have sold their goods at the gallery.
“I will miss working with people,” Janice said. “I recognize the majority of the people who come through the doors.”
Gail Rucker, the only employee, has been an integral part of the success of the gallery, Janice said.
“It’s been great fun,” Rucker said. “Janice and Dan have been wonderful people to work for.”
“It has been a great way to keep a finger on the pulse of the community,” Dan added. “I am really going to miss it.
The Maxhams will continue operating their other business, W.A. Mitchell Fine Furniture, 710 Wilton Rd.
The Chickadee’s Nest ceased sales at its downtown shop Dec. 24. The herb farm store, owned by Julia Staples, has been in business in the downtown area for nearly 12 years. It offered handmade herbal soaps, natural bath products, dried flower wreaths and other flower and herb creations.
“I will continue to make products at my farm and offer them for sale at The Mercantile, Better Living Center and on my website, thechickadeesnest.com.” Staples said.
In September, Emily Hartung of Calico Patch announced her retirement. The gift and consignment shop, which has been a mainstay on Broadway for 37 years, closed Dec. 21.
Emily Hartung, owner of Calico Patch in Farmington, closed the shop Dec. 21. File photo
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