The Trading Post on Potomac Avenue

A place to find unique gifts for Christmas or any occasion since 1943.

The Trading post is a wonderful place to find unique items for Christmas gifts and other occasions that cannot be found in stores. Some of the treasures are vintage, and will no doubt bring a smile to the faces of recipients as they remember Christmases past with a gift from long ago.

The Trading Post began during World War II, when many items were rationed for the public. This caused a shortage of children’s clothing and rubber galoshes. Since these items were not available for purchase in stores, the superintendent of Mt. Lebanon Schools at the time, H.V. Herlinger, suggested setting up a trading post where mothers could exchange clothing. The first one was set up at the Mt. Lebanon Municipal Building.

It quickly became a hub in the local community. But once the war ended, the municipal building was no longer available to hold the swap meets. The ladies had to find a new place, and began selling the items to raise money to rent a building.

In 1985, the Mt. Lebanon Trading Post moved to its present location in Dormont on Potomac Avenue. The group kept the original name because it was so well-known, with people coming from several areas in the South Hills to find affordable items.

The Trading Post now functions as a nonprofit consignment shop and is run entirely by volunteers. Individuals pay a nominal fee of $12 a year, and they can bring up to 10 items per week to the shop to be sold.

According to Co-President Chere Perella, this works well for everyone. People can bring in unwanted items, and if they are sold, they receive 50 percent of the purchase price and the Trading Post receives 50 percent. In challenging economic times, this can help provide extra money to help pay utility bills, buy groceries or pay for home repairs. It also helps the customers, who are able to find affordable items for their home.

Many people are able to find an entire work wardrobe when beginning a new job.

Besides clothing, shoes and accessories, the shop offers home decor and knick-knacks, linens, kitchen items, lamps and small appliances. It does not sell furniture, however, because of a lack of space.

The volunteers work really hard to keep the space neat and tidy, in order to make items easier to find and for a more positive shopping experience. Today, there are around 30 volunteers who maintain this valuable community resource, donating their time and talents.

People frequently remark that the storefront window is very creative. Maureen “Mo” Harrod lends her creative talents in designing the display. Her attractive arrangements have led many people to stop when they had only driven by before. Though her windows appear as if she might have been trained by Macy’s or Kaufmann’s, her talent is completely natural and self-taught.

The Trading Post’s volunteers range in age from high school students to retired persons. They work as cashiers, receiving clothing from consignees, tagging the clothing and performing administrative functions, and usually devote from two to six hours every week.

At the end of the season, all of the volunteers vote on five or more charities to receive the money that has been earned through sales. Because the Trading Post benefits charities, many people bring items to donate, rather than for consignment. Any items that are not able to be sold are donated to homeless shelters, city missions and other worthy nonprofits.

If you would like to donate items or bring some in for consignment, they should be in usable condition and cannot be damaged or stained. The shop does not accept furniture, large appliances or electronics. And the items are priced to make them affordable, regardless of their original purchase price.

Despite the financial benefits for both the consigners and the shoppers, Perella feels that the most important aspect of the Mt. Lebanon Trading Post is the sense of community.

“We are able to do 10 times more for the community than the original members were. It’s the social aspect that is so important. We help the community and we’re a part of it.”

Stop by to see what treasures you can find!

Because the Trading Post benefits charities, many people bring items to donate, rather than for consignment. Any items that are not able to be sold are donated to homeless shelters, city missions and other worthy nonprofits.