Reviewed by: Nathan Watson
This new box in Birmingham lets you trade your old trinkets for new treasures
Reading time: 3 minutes
Across the U.S. at festivals, concerts and in discrete locations, “trinket trade” boxes have been popping up everywhere.
Similar to “Free Little Libraries,” the concept is simple: Take a trinket, leave a trinket.
The boxes, which are generally repurposed junction boxes that are designed to house electrical wire connections, are full of little knickknacks like figurines, bracelets, stickers, keychains and more.
Birmingham recently got it’s very own trinket trade box. It’s located at sandwich shop and bar The Electric in East Avondale at 4426 4th Ave. South, and it stays stocked with adorable goodies.
It was started by Maegan McCormick, a part-time server and bartender at The Electric. She said that she asked permission from the owners, who were in full support of the unique idea.
“I felt like our community would really love something like this after seeing others online. We all deserve to have more little joys in our life! I decided I would be a good host for one because I’ve always been a collector of things and would truly get joy out of maintaining the box and the socials for it.
“I wanted to bring joy to the community and allow others to trade small, inexpensive and cute things for new things that could bring more happiness and whimsy into their home and collections.”
Maegan McCormick
She installed the vibrant box on April 16, and it has been a local hit ever since — McCormick has even had to add an extra box to accommodate the overflow of items.
Of all of the items left in the box so far, she said she’s particularly loved the local artists who have left handmade items behind. McCormick has also seen folks bringing their kids and loves seeing their excitement.
“I’ve seen people in the comment sections expressing how happy their trades are making them. People are getting to see their items go to a new home and even running across each other in the comments section and have been so excited and happy about it. It’s been so heartwarming and fun!”
Maegan McCormick
There are a few rules for the Magic City’s trinket box:
- Small items only (palm or pocket sized)
- No broken or dirty objects
- No food, candy, drinks or toiletries
- Family-friendly objects only
- If you don’t have a trinket, just bring one next time
- Keep the latches closed when not in use so all the objects stay safe and dry
If there is enough interest, she said, she is looking at opportunities to plan an in-person trinket swap. If you’re interested, check out the Instagram page for the trinket trade box and stay connected!
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