Following the pandemic, North 61 reopens doors to the public

 

Like many businesses in 2020, North 61 didn’t open its doors due to the pandemic.

But as we ease back toward normal, North 61 returns to offer any and every one in Schroeder a unique shopping experience.

While they offer a range of wares, everything from Duluth Pack bison leather shoulder bags to t-shirts and hoodies to woodcrafted goods, North 61 likes to focus on upcycled, vintage, and salvage goods.

In case those terms are new or a little fuzzy (they were to me), here’s a bit more detail. “Upcycled” is sometimes new or used, often includes deadstock. Deadstock is perfectly good fabrics that fashion houses just ordered too much of and was otherwise headed toward a landfill. “Vintage” usually refers to clothing made in the last century, often in countries not manufacturing as much goods and clothing today. And “salvage” is a bit of a catch all for everything else being found and resold.

There are several advantages to this kind of approach. Often items are one of a kind and it can lead to a more interesting shopping experience – since you never know what you’re going to get. But the biggest reason is perhaps environmental.

“There are enough new clothing items and goods already in the world,” suggests Patrick Burns, who co-owns North 61 with his wife, Paula.

They carry a wide range of brands, from Old Bemidji, Gunflint, FIlson, Patagonia, Pendleton, among others.

But don’t call it a thrift store. These items are thoughtfully curated. Of course, you don’t have to take my word for it. Feel free to try it on for size.