Tale of the Cod
Fine Gifts and Furniture
450 Main St.
Chatham
508-945-0347
Open 7 Days 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
TaleOfTheCod.com
In the Wizard of Oz, when the wizard asks Dorothy what she’s learned, she says “…that if I ever go looking for my heart’s desire again, I won’t look any further than my own backyard.” It’s true that sometimes we take for granted what we have in our own backyard or in this case on Chatham’s Main Street. Tale of the Cod has been a part of the fabric of Chatham’s wonderful Main Street since 1960 and has been owned by the Haetinger Family since 1979. This shop has it all! Where else can you find gifts for pet lovers, hostesses, babies, Aunt Maude, your best friend, an acquaintance, new homeowner, college kid, you-name-it, and a greeting card to go with it?
“People who frequent the store know they can find Mariposa, Simon Pearce and also locally-made products,” said Jackie Hart, one of the many knowledgeable staff members. “We literally have something for every budget.” She gestures to the pre-lit 24-inch Christmas trees that adorn the shop. “These are a customers’ favorite. These and all the silks and arrangements in the store are made by a Chatham resident.”
The front room of the shop twinkles and sparkles with gift ideas and home décor items. “We lean toward a nautical theme but change with the seasons,” said Hart. There are cutting boards that can be personalized, melodic buoy bells from Maine, wooden whales for your walls made by a man in Eastham, painted pottery, ornaments, small quarterboard signs, and so much more! There’s an extensive collection of Byers’ Choice Carolers, too. “And the ‘Dcuk’ line was so popular at Easter time we brought in their Christmas collection too.”
Walk up a step and enter the recently expanded baby and toddler department. “Grandmothers love what we carry here! We have lots of books by local authors. Remember Jamison the Shark? We have both books.” There are lots of mermaids, sea creatures to play with and clothing, too.
Your journey through Tale of the Cod continues as you next encounter the fabulous greeting card selection, a myriad of Scout bags, dazzling jewelry and fashion accessories like scarves and hats. “I’m particularly fond of the ‘Washershore Jewelry,’” laughed Hart. “They make beautiful pendants and earrings; you’ve got to see them! They’re stunning! They also make wine charms called ‘pour decisions!’” The pet corner has expanded, too. “We have pet items for pet lovers and your furry friends.” There’s also a wide selection of taper and pillar candles along with tabletop accessories like napkins, tablecloths, centerpieces, etc.
“Now when first-time customers get to this point in the store, they often stop, stare, and say ‘Holy Mackerel!’” laughed Hart. The store does seem to go on and on with displays of their fine furniture, lamps, pillows, rugs, wall art and window treatments. “We have a full-time designer-decorator on staff. Her name is Moira Jones. We do custom upholstery and custom window treatments, too.”
What doesn’t this store do? “Oh, we also ship and offer complimentary gift wrap!” Re-discover Tale of the Cod today for your holiday shopping!