If you ever ask me where I got an article of clothing, there is a significant likelihood that I bought it at the Barn Owl, the clothing booth that is set up on Middle Path on Wednesdays during fall and spring. The stall is run by a local couple who purchases their wares secondhand and sells them for extremely low prices. There are a variety of seasonal selections, such as heavier sweaters and jackets for fall and dresses and skirts for spring. The couple also sells records, jewelry, tapestries, and other thrifted items.
I was introduced to “the Middle Path clothing people,” as I often refer to the booth as a term of affection, at some point during the fall of my freshmen year. After walking by them numerous times, I spied a friend browsing their wares and asked her what was going on. She excitedly reported that she had been waiting all week for this, as she has purchased numerous items of clothing here in the past. Her excitement for the booth was infectious, and after spying numerous attractive items on my first foray, I was hooked.
I began tucking a few extra dollars into my backpack in anticipation of the next Wednesday in a continuation of my quest to build a decent wardrobe for little much money. On my second trip to the Barn Owl, I found two much-needed fall coats and a fun maxi skirt for a total of under $15. Since returning almost weekly to the store, I have found several items that fit my personal style and budget. These clothes are often more well constructed than others of a similar price range, as they are frequently preworn goods from more reliable brands. I have found clothes from Anne Taylor, Lucky Brand, J. Crew, and others during my perusal there.
The selection of clothes is well suited to the price range and style of Kenyon students, which is why the booth is so popular. In a Collegian article, the owners of the Barn Owl reported setting aside certain finds for their Kenyon days. These items consisted of clothing that fit the Kenyon aesthetic or basics they could sell cheaply. The students obviously appreciate these selections, as it is fairly rare that items will reappear from week to week.
After frequenting the booth so often, many friends who wanted to stop by began asking me to go with them. It was enjoyable to introduce others to my favorite nearby “store,” as there are a very limited number of clothing options in or near Gambier. Frequenting the booth with others is akin to going shopping with friends, but is an easy activity to fit into one’s schedule as it is often on the way to classes or other destinations.
If you ever find yourself yearning for a new shirt or need a seasonal jacket, you should take a look at the Barn Owl, but don’t be surprised if you see me there trying on clothes!
Image Credit: Feature, Lily Alig, Sarah Manz, Ethan Snyder