"What a place! You could have the president of Harvard at one end of the bar and Boston's best bank robbers at the other with everyone else in between." The Warren Tavern closed in 1813. It was reopened over a century and a half later in the shadow of an elevated railway in the midst of the gritty Boston District of Charlestown. The year was 1972, a decade of change. Few, if any, thought the Tavern would survive in a tough Irish enclave that didn't welcome outsiders. Remarkably, the Tavern prospered from the start and generated a clientele that was so diverse it became one of the most sought out bars in Boston. Find cops and crooks, party girls, movie stars, writers, politicians and longshoremen telling their stories. Their many tales and antics weave a colorful read, rich in character, humor and wit. Step inside the Tavern, join our crowd at the bar, and you won't want to leave."

The Joy of Old has copies of this wonderful book available for sale. Be sure to get yours before they sell out! $12.95

Knitting and Yarn Trunk Show

Save the Date: Thursday, May 29 from 6-8pm.

The Stitch House is on the road from Dorchester to the Joy of Old for a Trunk Show!

A sampling of Stitch House yarns will be on display as well as knit & sewn samples and accessories. Knitters and sewers welcome to bring products for show and tell. Those who want to become knitters and sewers come get motivated!

Light refreshments will be served. Please RSVP to info@stitchhousedorchester.com or 617-265-8013. Class sign-ups for Stitch House Charlestown (at Joy of Old) will be held that night – first come first reserved!

Charlestown Gift Baskets

The perfect gift for new Charlestown residents. Long-time Townies will appreciate these gift baskets, too. Don't forget, Bunker Hill Day is just around the corner!

Boston Handmade at the Joy of Old

Boston Handmade is a group of Boston area artists and artisans with Etsy shops who meet regularly for shows, network and skill workshops. The Joy of Old currently carries fabulous, colorful prints by Jaye of Thirteenth Story, the cutest, whimsical needle felted pieces by Lynne of Cozy Cottage Creations, and eclectic polymer and metal jewelry by Betsy of Stonehouse Studio.

One of a Kind Whimsical Scarves - Just in time for Valentine's Day!

Engineer by day, artisan by night ....artist Anna Maria Kubis never makes a scarf to simply make a scarf. "These scarves are made with a lot of love. I want people to feel happy and frivolous when they reach for one -- like they are floating on a little cloud." One scarf alone is made up of sooo many cheery and mystical colors that it really is art in itself and no two are ever alike. This darling accessory adds a hit of pizzazz to a jean jacket or easily sweetens up a party dress. You can loop them around your neck; wear them as a belt or even a head band. As Anna Maria says "wear them for fun or better yet -- have a ball!

Anna Maria grew up in Southern Poland where the arts were a very large part of her social life. As a little girl, she studied ballet and painting, and as teenager, she regularly attended opera and theater with her mother. She now carries that passion to her Maine studio, where she works away to delight us with one scarf at a time. A life of artistic expression is notably found in her whimsical scarves, along with a lot of love. Perfect for Valentines Day! $24

Witty Kids...

The Joy of Old now carries onesies and t-shirts by Gifts of Wit. These delightful baby gifts are sure to bring a smile to your face. The wee ones may not get it, but Mommy and Daddy sure will! 100% cotton. $12 to $18.

Mirror, Mirror....

Long known as the place in Charlestown for wonderful vintage mirrors that look just fabulous in Boston's historic homes. The Joy of Old has a large selection of mirrors, in all shapes and sizes - from a mamoth Victorian mantle mirror, to simple and rustic farmhouse designs. Be sure to stop by the shop to see them!

This Week's Furniture Pick

Ann recently picked up this beautiful golden oak dresser with attached mirror at an antique auction. It's in great condition with a nice, mellow patina. The simple lines and clean look will work with almost every decor. It's also not too big - a perfect fit for most Charlestown homes! Be sure to stop by the shop to take a look at this pretty piece for just $325.

And let's not forget the Joy of Old's extensive offerings in vintage china and cut glass!

French Merchants at the Joy of Old

Nancy and Jean provide our shop with the most wonderful vegetable based French soaps and French linens. The soaps are hand milled using traditional recipes. All are vegetable based and use only natural herb and flower essences. Some of our favorites are 'fleur a l'orange', 'herbes de Provence' and 'the vert'. Combine these beautifully packaged soaps with traditional French towels and linens, and you have the perfect hostess or housewarming gift!

Rustic Signs - Gifts For All Occasions

The Joy of Old carries a large variety of rustic signs in many colors. These make wonderful gifts for birthdays, weddings, holidays, housewarming gifts, life changes. They cover any conceivable occasion!