Hallowell Antique Mall — Local services in Hallowell

I was made to feel very uncomfortable. I brought 2 children under 10 in and they were very well behaved. The male owner sauntered up to us, eyeing the female child. He addressed the children and I instantly didn't feel right about his demeanor. I very politely took over the conversation with small talk, leaving it there as I attempted to move on with the kids. He asked the kids how they liked the items and they replied that things were "creepy." He asked them if they thought he "was creepy." There were many uncomfortable silences that could have been his cue to move on but he was locked in on the 9yo girl trying to avoid him. He then asked if they knew how to give five and waited until both children reluctantly responded to the command. I felt that he was assessing our boundaries as it was already awkward. He lingered watching us for about a minute before asking me with contempt if I was their grandmother. I am in my mid 20s and he made no attempt to correct himself. I believe it was his backlash for my boundaries as I tried to move the children away. You can assume that I misread this encounter but I will follow my gut and stay far away from this...

All you would hope to expect from an antique mall, great selection, items that span decades, great finds from advertising to furniture and everything in between. There were some average sales 15 - 30% off in some booths (of course, what I bought and wanted had no percentage off). The layout is nicely crowded, easy enough to move around, but you'll have to crouch down to see everything tucked in corners and under tables. There are also a fair amount of "protected items" you know the ones, they are smaller, a little pricier and usually include some pretty special things you don't see to often. They are the items they want to protect a little more. Furniture is good quality and not all of it needs complete overhauls. They do have some of the "fixer-up" pieces, but there are a good number of "ready for the home" pieces as well. They have a great annex with some unique finds and architectural treasures. It's definitely a place worth visiting often. The staff is always friendly...

I initially contacted this location to confirm whether I could trade in my items for cash, so I wouldn't waste my time visiting in person. When I arrived, a staff member took one of my items and proceeded to look up its value on Ebay... However, she did not utilize the SKU number still attached to the item’s tags or consider its original packaging. She then informed me that the item had little to no value, without thoroughly researching its worth. Based on her assessment and her attitude when I inquired further, I was disappointed, as I believe the item is worth approximately $80–$100. Consequently, I left without any cash offer, which was disheartening. I do not plan to return to this location in the future. And do not recommend you...