We are happy to report that the Good As New Shop has reopened! If you have additional questions, please contact Dot Widmayer at alliance@uuac-sherborn.org.In 1962, the Women's Alliance determined to establish a church school using a Unitarian curriculum. This was particularly significant as the church had just withdrawn from federation with the neighboring Pilgrim church (UCC). To support the new Sunday School, a group of young mothers and the Alliance decided to open a consignment shop.
Originally located in a nearby barn, then in a neighboring home, and finally in Unity Hall after the Bothfeld sisters' generous gift of an addition to the church for offices, classrooms, and a large meeting room, they called it The Good As New Shop, or GANS, as it accepted only items for sale that were as good as new. Staffed by volunteers, the shop earned money by keeping a commission on every item sold. At least one customer from those days is still a regular visitor, and several customers recall first coming to the shop as children with their mothers.
With over 250 regular consignors from 36 Massachusetts towns, the Good As New Shop continues to offer coffee, tea, cookies and other goodies, a place to visit with friends, and great bargains every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Approximately every three months GANS holds a half-price sale — EVERYTHING in the shop is half price. Any remaining merchandise is donated to a variety of charities at the end of the sale.
Consigning
Membership for consignors is $8 per year. Consigners bring a variety of "good as new" quality items to sell, including antiques and collectibles, toys and games, books and videos, clothing and accessories, kitchen items and small appliances, baskets and seasonal items, and household goods and crafts. Not accepted: suitcases, duffels, shoes and boots, toiletries, bathing suits, and undergarments. Consignors set their own prices and receive back 75% of the selling price.GANS also accepts donations. A large basket in the elevator room off Unity Hall is clearly marked for that purpose. We invite you to come to shop, to visit, to consign, and to become part of UUAC's original small group ministry. You are always welcome.
GANS Hours
GANS hours are every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. except the day before Thanksgiving and the Wednesday of Christmas week. GANS will be closed for snow when the Sherborn Schools are closed.