There is a very popular saying: “One man’s garbage is another man’s treasure.”
If you’re looking for a rare find or something to add to your antiques and collectibles collection, a new James City store hopes to have just what you’re looking for.
The Treasure Trove has opened at 1201C US 70. The shop sells a range of second hand items, antiques and collectibles.
The store opened on April 7th and a grand opening ceremony was held on April 15th.
Owner Travis Ashbrook is an experienced home repair and remodeling professional who owned his own business for many years prior to his final venture.
“With the housing market as it is, the construction business is taking a leap,” he said. “I thought this was the right time to do something different.”
He said he believes James City is a prime location for his business as there aren’t many other thrift stores in the area.
Travis Ashbrook said the NC Department of Transportation has no plans for the site and the building is expected to remain in place during new freeway construction currently underway on US 70.
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“We wanted to keep our goods affordable for our customers,” said Travis Ashbrook. “Most of our kids’ clothes and shoes are $1, and everything else in the store is also reasonably priced.”
The store offers clothing, shoes, furniture, household items, toys, dolls, jewelry, coins and more.
The opening hours are Monday to 5 p.m., Tuesday to 8 p.m., Thursday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Affordable community options
Ashbrook and his wife April moved to the area from California. After a few years in Jacksonville, they moved to New Bern after purchasing a home in the James City community.
“California got very expensive,” said Travis Ashbrook. “It also became a very dangerous place to live and I wanted my children to live in a safer place.”
The Ashbrooks have two sons who are currently serving in the United States Air Force and a daughter who is now a graduate of Hofstra University and lives in New York.
The couple recently celebrated their 25th anniversary with a renewal of vows at The Garage, located next door to the shop.
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April Ashbrook, who is disabled, said the cost of living gets so high given gas prices and the high cost of groceries and other necessities.
“The most important thing for Travis is to be able to offer the community items that are affordable.” She said. “Kids who visit the store are given a free deck of sports cards just because we want to give something back to our customers to show our appreciation.”
Currently, the company has an additional vendor that sells lifelike dolls, handmade sewing goods such as pillows and quilts, and other items.
For more information on The Treasure Trove, visit Facebook or call 252-639-8781.