Curio Cottage: The Little Fundraising Shop That Could

From the outside, it doesn’t look like much.

It doesn’t advertise. Even the name — Curio Cottage — seems musty and old-fashioned. Better suited to rural New Hampshire than dynamic Westport, perhaps.

But the Curio Cottage — the little thrift shop next to the Westport Woman’s Club, perched on the Imperial Avenue hill not far from Jesup Road — is filled with wonderful curios merchandise like glassware, tableware, frames, jewelry, furniture, clothing and books.

The Curio Cottage looks small. But wait till you see what’s inside.

And it’s all for a good cause. Over the past 15 years, the shop has raised nearly $400,000. The funds go directly to local charities and need-based scholarships.

That’s fantastic work for any organization. It’s particularly impressive for an all-volunteer, low-key (but very energetic) group like the Woman’s Club.

And it’s even more noteworthy because the prices are so reasonable.

Those prices go even lower from February 8-13. Everything is half off.

The Curio Cottage women — an amazing bunch, led by Karen Eickhoff — call this “a sweetheart of a sale.” They suggest buying something for Valentine’s Day. And then — always thinking of the town — they hope you’ll purchase something from a local merchant, to fill it with. For example, a Curio Cottage bowl, which you’ll then fill with chocolates. A vase (and roses). A pair of wine glasses (duh).

Curio Cottage director Karen Eickhoff, among a few of her many treasures.

The merchandise always changes. The volunteers always know what’s new and interesting.

And the charities and students who benefit from the Curio Cottage sales are always very, very grateful for its patrons.

(Curio Cottage special sale hours are Monday, February 8 through Saturday, February 13, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, non-sale hours, and details on how you can donate your own items, click here.)

Westport Woman’s Club member (and frequent “06880” commenter) Bobbie Herman shops in the Curio Cottage.