Looking For A Gift That Says Connecticut?

WATERBURY — Back in the early 90s, when dozens of downtown department stores were going out of business, the Howland-Hughes department store in Waterbury ran a “staying in business”’ sale. Hank Paine, whose family had owned the store since 1922, was determined that this “Grand Old Lady” founded in 1890 would survive, and he came up with a unique way to do this.

The entire first floor of the building became The Connecticut Store, the first and only store dedicated to products made in the state. For shoppers in the market for special holiday gifts, The Connecticut Store is a trove of unexpected treasures and discoveries.  The Yankee Magazine Travel Guide named the store a “must see.”

Shoppers may learn a bit of Connecticut history while finding unique gifts. For example, few may be aware that the Waterbury Button Company has been supplying buttons for US military uniforms since the War of 1812. Today they make buttons for most of the services, for marching bands and state police departments nationwide, as well for companies from Donna Karan and Polo to J.C. Penney.

Handsome gift sets of blazer buttons sold here include buttons designed for professions such as doctor and lawyer, and for hobbies like sailing or tennis. History buffs should relish replicas of the buttons made for the officers and crew of the ship Titanic. This is also the only company licensed to create buttons featuring the state seal for all 50 states.

That family standby, the Wiffle Ball, is another Connecticut product, born more than 50 years ago in Shelton, and still a family-run business. Balls, bats, flying saucers, official caps, and signature ties are among the offerings in the Waterbury outpost.

“The only real Christmas tree ornaments in world” is the claim of AKA Collectibles of Waterbury. Reindeer, birds, trees, snowmen, animals, and lighthouses are among their wooden Christmas ornaments hand cut from recycled Christmas trees. Woodbury Pewter also makes unique Christmas ornaments as well as Christmas bells with wreath and tree designs plus tankards, bowls, vases and other special gift items. Pez candies and their clever, collectible, character candy dispensers made in Orange make great stocking stuffers.

To add to the holiday spirit, visitors can see the elaborate Santa’s workshop that was part of the Howland-Hughes store Christmas display.

The Connecticut Store is at 120-140 Bank Street in downtown Waterbury, phone 800-4SHOPCT. Those who cannot shop in person may order many items via the website, www.ctstore.com.