Perhaps you’ve noticed the mammoth vintage sign or the antique gas pump in their pebbled Main Road parking lot but never stopped in. Make it a point to visit this truly unique shop and its most welcoming owner, Howie Waldman. The Jamesport Country Store has been in the Waldman family for 50 years and if you ask Howie, he still loves running it. A visit there presents a special blend of vintage, repurposed and new.
1) Blackberry Sage Candle, $17.95
Made especially for the shop, these soy candles come in a variety of scents but my favorite is definitely the blackberry sage. It’s the best mix of sweet and savory notes.
2) Wool Sweater Blanket, $175
We all have that one worn-out sweater that we just love anyway. This oversized blanket is made from all those old favorite sweaters and perfect for North Fork winters by the fire.
3) Sea Glass Jewelry, $45
Local jewelry maker Holly L’Hommedieu enjoys the therapeutic benefits of finding sea glass and creating art from it. Her multicolored sea glass and sterling silver pieces line incorporate local sea glass as well as some from foreign shores.
4) Retro Snowman Lawn Decor, $58
Blow mold holiday décor is making a comeback. Howie’s selection includes this white, red and green lawn snowman at a very fair price.
5) 1980s Penzoil Sign, $395
Jamesport Country Store’s vintage sign selection is eclectic but well curated. This yellow oval Penzoil sign from the 1980s can be a fun addition to a North Fork breakfast nook.
6) Old-Fashioned Candy, priced by weight
I haven’t seen root beer barrel candy since I was a kid growing up near a candy shop in Brooklyn. Howie’s selection rivals that of any classic sweet shop and he’s happy to tell you about each delectable variety.
7) Jamesport Hats, $14.95
Represent the small hamlet of Jamesport with one of the country store’s navy hats. They celebrate Jamesport’s heritage and founding in 1833.
8) Grumman T-shirts, starting at $18.95
Howie notes that native Long Islanders can’t get enough of his vintage Grumman logo T-shirts. These soft cotton shirts are cool enough to gift or keep for yourself.
