Diamond in the Rough: A Guide to Kirksville’s Thrift Stores
I consider myself a bit of an expert thrifter. I have been a Goodwill goer for many years of my life, and I firmly believe that finding a good score is probably up there with life’s greatest moments. I found a genuine red leather bag from the nineties for $2.50. I’m sure that’s going to be better than meeting my first child. Moreover, I would estimate that roughly 70% of my wardrobe, furniture, and decor in my apartment is secondhand. My perfect day includes a tea latte, a handful of garage sales, topped off with a thrift store rampage. That said, I have gone to many second hand stores in town when I need to scratch the thrifting itch, and I have compiled my favorites here.
Salvation Army 3/5 – Affordable but limited Selection
When I found out that the Salvation Army was opening next to Walmart, I was incredibly excited. I have had much luck at other Salvation Army’s previously, and anxiously awaited the opening. However, I haven’t been very impressed with the selection. As a disclaimer, I do understand that it is a thrift store, and they don’t have much say in what comes in; it just doesn’t contain as many quality items as other stores in the area. There is a lackluster selection in clothing and accessories, but does have a few good housewares.
I found a beautiful, large gold frame there for under $5, to which I turned into a display for my mementos, like postcards and polaroids. I do think it’s worthwhile to take a peek and see what new inventory they have, just in case something piques your interest.
The Crossing 4/5 – Little bit of everything
The Crossing thrift store is a big jump in quality when compared to Salvation Army. It has a wide array of selection, anything from glassware essentials to button downs to prom dresses. I think I could definitely spend some time here, as I do each time I pop in. I love the clothing selection, as many pieces of women’s clothing are right up my alley. Additionally, I would recommend this as a great place to find mid-tier pricing (for a thrift store), but a better selection.
I wouldn’t say this is your one-stop shop for shoes, as most are fairly worn out, but this store is a crafter’s dream. I bought a vintage cooking apron pattern from here, and my apron turned out beautifully. It was so fun to try something new for so affordable. They have great items for projects and DIY’s, and secondhand gifts. If you’re crafty, try The Crossing out.
Hidden Treasures 5/5 – Greater selection, greater price
As one may have realized, I am an old soul. I love anything a grandma might like. So I was delighted to find some detailed, flowery cloth napkins and some Christmas-themed dishes at this store. Hidden Treasures lived up to its name. If you are a big fan of antiques, little figurines, and variety, this is your store. Three floors of secondhand items always seem to call my name when I come by, and very rarely do I leave without finding something I like.
This is a great spot to find professional clothing and nicer blouses, even if it may require a little digging. Slacks, blazers, and shoes are one of this store’s greatest strengths. Need professional clothing? Between here and the Career Closet on campus, you’re sure to find something without breaking the bank.
However, one must keep in mind that Hidden Treasures is a consignment store, not just a thrift store, so the pricing is reflective of that. It’s a double edged sword: one is more likely to find something that is worth it since it is combed through, but at a greater price to secure it.
Community Mission 5/5 – Go for the experience
This is probably my favorite thrift store in Kirksville. Community Mission isn’t going to really have everything on your thrift list, but that’s not what I like about it. It has everything you wouldn’t think about getting. If you want to leave this store with something, you have to take your time and search through it. Wigs, jewelry, Truman merch, appliances, housewares. It’s not the most organized store, but it does have lots of variety. You don’t know the price on anything until you’re at the counter, and it’s always way less than you think.
My favorite kitchen glasses, a set of six, was 50 cents per glass. You can’t buy anything now for 50 cents. A whole $3 for an entire glassware matching set. Additionally, I found a brand new Truman T-Shirt, which would’ve been at least $17 new, that I cut off and turned into the perfect cropped T shirt for football games.
And last but not least, Deb and Ron are the sweetest people you will ever meet. Each purchase is sent off with a goodie bag, containing a thank you note and (possibly expired) Little Debbie treats. Go meet someone lovely at Community Mission.
Like most things, more is more. I believe that the true strength of the Kirksville thrift stores is that they are all better together. What one store lacks, the next makes up for it. All of them are best experienced one after the other. Grab your friends, get a fun drink at the new 7 Brew, and spend this Saturday at all your local thrift stores.
