News at Townsend Draft Goods

Migraine Relief Tincture - Back in stock!

Our migraine relief tincture by Naturacentric apothecary is a best seller! It's back in stock and you can get yours today. Formulated for headache pain relief, nausea, and neck tension.

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SWaM

We're SWaM certified!

The Small, Women-owned, and Minority-owned Business (SWaM) certification program is a state program of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

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Great Times at TMF 2025

We had a great time at Treasure Mountain Festival 2025 with customers, friends, & family!

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The Crown Jewel of Appalachia: Coming Home in Mindfulness

So, this year, as Treasure Mountain Festival shines as the Crown Jewel of Appalachia, may we all take a moment to return home in heart, in memory, and in mindful presence.

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Announcement: Our shop in Mill Gap is closed this week - We'll be at TMF in Franklin, WV!

Our shop in Mill Gap is closed this week - We'll be at TMF in Franklin, WV! See you there!

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Our barn shop in Mill Gap on Sept 17-20 won't be open because we'll be in Franklin, WV

We're a vendor at the Treasure Mountain Festival (TMF) from September 17 - 20, 2025. We're bringing Spiritual Jewelry, Gemstones, Top Hats, Eclectic T-Shirts, Herbal Remedies, Tinctures & Tonics, Teas, Tea Strainers, Books, Custom Wood Working & More - At the TMF!

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Dried Herbal Tea

Take a look! We have lots of Goods for You

We have lots of great new goods for you! Take a look! Check out our website daily for new items and great products that support a healthy lifestyle. Plus, we have goods that support your spiritual aspirations, too! Dried Herbal Teas - Grab & Go Available! Bulk Herbs & Teas Available for You

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Boneset: A Bitter Herb to Support Fevers & Flu

Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum) is a native North American plant long appreciated in traditional herbal practices. With its rugged leaves and delicate flower clusters, boneset has been used historically to support wellness during seasonal transitions. What Is Boneset? Boneset grows in damp meadows and woodland edges across eastern North America. Its name comes from its historical association with “breakbone fever,” a term used during severe flu outbreaks in the 18th and 19th centuries. Traditional Uses: Boneset has been used by herbalists to: Support the body’s natural response to seasonal discomfort Encourage gentle detoxification through sweating and elimination Promote respiratory comfort and ease Maintain general immune resilience Note: These uses are based on traditional herbal knowledge and historical practice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Ayurvedic Interpretation of Boneset Though not native to India, boneset’s bitter taste and cooling energy make it a natural fit for Ayurvedic wellness strategies. Ayurvedic Property Description Rasa (Taste) Bitter, slightly pungent Virya (Potency) Cooling Vipaka (Post-digestive effect) Pungent Dosha Effects May help balance kapha and vata Its bitterness is traditionally associated with clearing excess moisture and calming overstimulated systems. How to Prepare Boneset Boneset Tea (Infusion) Ingredients: 1–2 tsp dried boneset leaves and flowers 1 cup boiling water Instructions: Steep herbs in hot water for 10–15 minutes. Strain and sip slowly. Optional: Add honey or ginger to soften the bitter taste. Use: Traditionally consumed up to 2–3 cups daily during seasonal shifts. Not recommended for long-term use. Boneset Tincture (Alcohol Extract) Ingredients: 1 oz dried boneset 4 oz 80–100 proof alcohol (vodka or ethanol) Instructions: Combine herbs and alcohol in a glass jar. Store in a cool, dark place for 2–4 weeks, shaking occasionally. Strain and bottle. Use: Herbalists often suggest 10–30 drops diluted in water or tea, up to 3x daily during times of seasonal imbalance. Always consult a qualified herbal practitioner before using boneset or any herbal preparation. Botanical Illustration Here's a traditional-style sketch of boneset. Safety Notes Boneset should be used with care: Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding Avoid prolonged use due to naturally occurring compounds that may affect liver health Always consult a healthcare provider before use References Wood, Matthew. The Earthwise Herbal: A Complete Guide to Old World Medicinal Plants. North Atlantic Books, 2008. Hoffmann, David. Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Healing Arts Press, 2003. Lad, Vasant. Ayurveda: The Science of Self-Healing. Lotus Press, 1984.

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Mindfulness is Paying Attention with Heart: A reflection on love, presence, and everyday awareness

Mindfulness is healthfulness. It nurtures how we think, feel, relate, and most importantly how we respond...The mind and the heart aren’t separate. In mindful awareness, they move together - connected, steady, and kind.

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What's been happening at Townsend Draft Goods? August 2025 Update

Lots of good stuff has been happening at Townsend Draft Goods!

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Two botanicals revered for their immune-boosting, circulatory, & cognitive-enhancing properties

Whether you’re looking to boost immunity, sharpen your mind, or restore balance, astragalus and ginkgo offer a gentle yet powerful synergy.

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The Auction Barn, Alive Again - and a Lesson in Mindfulness

Friends and neighbors gathered over music, food, and conversation, sharing notjust the experience of bidding on unique items, but the joy of being together...

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AUGUST FEATURED PRODUCT - Tummy Control: Menopausal Weight Support Dietary Supplement with 34 Whole Herbs

Introducing our August Feature Product - Tummy Control, a complex blend of 34 whole herbs and 9 vitamins and minerals that work synergistically to help inhibit fat production, support normal metabolism, and soothe and calm the body's stress response. Help counteract menopausal weight gain with St. John's Wort, Garcinia Cambogia, Green Tea and Rhodiola Rosea St. John's Wort helps calm anxiety and menopausal discomforts, and Garcinia Cambogia helps the body manage and process fat. Rhodiola Rosea Root, an adaptogenic (stress response) herb helps promote feelings of calm. Linda Page (ND, PhD) crafted Tummy Control specifically for menopausal weight gain Linda Page (ND, PhD) crafted Tummy Control specifically for menopausal weight gain. It's a complex blend of 34 whole herbs and 9 vitamins and minerals that work synergistically to help inhibit fat production, support normal metabolism, and soothe and calm the body's stress response. The average woman can gain 10 to 15 pounds in menopause - partly from lifestyle changes, but also from hormone-related changes which impact metabolism. Weight gain this time around is more likely to settle around your abdomen than your hips and thighs. Buy Here Click here: https://townsenddraftgoods.com/products/tummy-control ------ ---- Disclaimer --- *Disclaimer: Townsend Draft Goods does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information. Everything on our website is based on our own opinion and is not reflective of a particular brand, organization, or company. Products are not intended to diagnose, treat, care, or prevent any disease. Our sourcing is for educational purposes only. Please consult your medical doctor prior to taking any products or using any product. Information about many of the products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. You are responsible for your health, your own well-being, and making your own decisions. We are not - and do not imply to be - licensed medical practitioners.

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“What You Think, You Become” — A Reflection on Mindfulness and Your Inner Voice

Mindfulness doesn’t mean we stop thinking - it means we notice what we’re thinking, and how it’s affecting us. So, the next time a limiting thought shows up, take a breath. Pause. Ask yourself if that thought deserves your energy...

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Cool new T-shirts available! “Mill Gap is where it’s at!”

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Handmade Maple Cutting Boards

Handmade Maple Cutting Boards

Handmade Maple Cutting Boards available by local craftsman, Mitch Horner of Franklin, WV. The maple is sourced locally and each board is crafted by hand in his woodshop.

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I'm in love with Highland County, VA

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Steps to view the consignment auction at TOWNSEND AUCTION BARN

Are you looking for the auction? This is a simulcast live and online auction. Bidding begins whenever items are listed.

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The Power of the Pause: How 16 Seconds Can Shift Everything

16 seconds. Just one round can shift your state of mind. Your body softens. Your nervous system starts to settle.

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How Meditation Gently Changed My Life

When I began meditating, it wasn’t about clearing my mind completely or finding some perfect calm...

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Get a free gift celebrating America when you shop during the month of July!

Get a free 4th of July gift when you shop during the month of July!!!! One free gift per customer while supplies last. Yes, we are open on July 4.

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Sharing a little memory about my Aunt Myrtle

Aunt Myrtle says garlic capsules keeps you healthy. And her advice shows it at age 86.

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What's been happening at Townsend Draft Goods - June 28

In this update, we share herbal conversations with neighbors, gifts from friends, and a bit about the sponsorship of a consignment auction.

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The Myth of a Quiet Mind: What Meditation Is—and Isn’t

Through this series with Townsend Draft Goods, Betsy shares simple, meaningful ways to bring meditation into everyday life. If you’ve ever thought, “I can’t meditate—my mind never stops,” you’re not alone. That was me, too. For most of my life, I lived in a constant state of anxiety. As a child, I thought it was normal to wake up for school already feeling a tightness in my chest. A test? Anxious. A family trip? Anxious. Even the happy moments had this hum of nervous energy underneath. I didn't know it wasn’t supposed to feel that way. As I got older, I stayed busy—always in motion, doing anything I could to keep my anxiety at bay. I thought if I just kept going, I wouldn’t have to feel it. But here’s what I’ve learned: Meditation isn’t about making the mind go quiet. It’s not about forcing away thoughts, fixing yourself, or achieving instant calm.It’s about noticing what’s already happening—with loving kindness. When I began meditating in 2018, I realized my mind wasn’t the problem. My mind was doing what minds do: thinking, predicting, worrying, planning. That’s its job. The gift of meditation is that it gives us the space to notice the thoughts without becoming them. Instead of trying to silence my anxiety, I learned to sit with it. I began asking myself: Is my heart racing?Are my shoulders tight?Is my mind jumping to the worst-case scenario—again? And I didn’t judge myself for it. I just noticed. That’s the practice. Meditation is coming home to yourself, one breath at a time.Some days, your mind may feel like a storm. Other days, a still lake. Neither is better. What matters is that you show up—and gently return to your breath when you wander. Your breath is always there. You don’t need anything else to begin. If you're still reading, know this: you don’t need to have a “quiet mind” to meditate. You just need to be curious. Willing. Present, even for a moment. That’s more than enough. In the next post, I’ll share how meditation became a turning point in my own healing—and how you can begin right where you are. ✨ About the Author Betsy is a certified meditation teacher and career coach based in Southern California. She’s been practicing meditation since 2018 and became certified through the Davidji Master of Wisdom & Meditation Teacher Training Academy in 2024. With over 20 years of experience in career development, she also serves as an adjunct professor in the California State University system and is the co-founder of a veteran service organization.

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sacred jewelry

We Have a Selection of Sacred Jewelry - Come see for yourself!

We have sacred jewelry designed for many interests such as astrology jewelry, spirit animal jewelry, spiritual jewelry, magic jewelry, and religious jewelry. Lots of our items are designed to keep your secrets with hidden chambers.

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Featured Product for June! It's all in the name

Your featured product for June is a pain support, in liquid form, taken by the dropper to tame headaches and mood swings! It's all in the name! This incredible blend of natural herbs is formulated to tame the wildest of mood swings and the most painful cramps! Ghost Pipe & Wild Lettuce Ingredients: Organic wild harvested wild lettuce , Ghost pipe, Fennel, grain alcohol (non GMO, gluten free) Headaches and other PMS symptoms don’t stand a chance! It’s time to take your life back. Our special blend of powerful plants will never let you down and it works lightning fast. No special instructions, no side effects. CLICK HERE TO BUY YOURS: https://townsenddraftgoods.com/products/p-m-s-mood-support-tincture-organic

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Ghost Pipe

The Mysterious Ghost Pipe Plant, a support for headaches, nerve discomfort, and emotional distress

The Enigmatic Ghost Pipe (Monotropa uniflora) Ghost Pipe, also known as Indian Pipe, is one of the most mysterious plants found in the deep, shaded forests of North America. Unlike most plants, it lacks chlorophyll and doesn’t rely on photosynthesis, giving it a ghostly white appearance. But what makes Ghost Pipe truly fascinating isn’t just its eerie look—it has been traditionally used in herbal practices for its purported properties. What Does Ghost Pipe Look Like? Ghost Pipe stands 4 to 11 inches (10 to 30 cm) tall, with delicate stems topped by a single drooping flower. Its waxy, translucent white coloring—sometimes tinged with pink or speckled with black—adds to its spectral presence. As it matures, the flower straightens, eventually turning black when pollinated. Found in moist, shaded forests, Ghost Pipe often thrives under dense tree canopies where few plants can survive. It doesn’t derive nutrients from the sun like traditional plants—instead, it forms a unique symbiotic relationship with fungi, drawing sustenance from decaying organic matter. Traditional Uses in Herbalism Historically, herbalists have used Ghost Pipe in traditional herbal practices. Some claim it has mild analgesic properties, describing it as a remedy for headaches, nerve discomfort, and emotional distress. It is often prepared as a tincture or tea. However, Ghost Pipe has not been evaluated or approved by the FDA for medicinal use. Any claims regarding its effects are based on historical and anecdotal evidence, not clinical trials. Individuals considering herbal supplements should consult a licensed healthcare professional before use. Conservation & Ethical Harvesting Given its rarity, many conservationists urge responsible foraging or avoiding harvesting altogether. If you're considering using Ghost Pipe for herbal purposes, consulting a knowledgeable herbalist or healthcare professional is advisable. FDA Disclaimer This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Ghost Pipe has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety or efficacy. Herbal supplements are regulated under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) and must not be marketed as treatments for specific diseases. References Burrows, G. E., & Tyrl, R. J. (2013). Toxic plants of North America. John Wiley & Sons. Davis, J. (2019). The herbalist’s guide to wild medicine: Traditional uses of forest plants. Green Earth Press. Hinds, H. R. (2000). Flora of North America: Monotropaceae. Oxford University Press. Moore, M. (2003). Medicinal plants of the Pacific Northwest: A comprehensive guide. Mountain Press Publishing. Images sourced from: Wisdom of the Plant Devas iNaturalist For more information on FDA regulations for herbal supplements, visit the FDA website.

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Down on the farm at Townsend Draft Goods in Mill Gap, Virginia - June 1

Down on the farm at Townsend Draft Goods, we had some fun times this past week!

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Life Happens, Tea Helps

It's been raining all week here in Highland County. It's delayed the gardens, delayed events, delayed the grass getting mowed and caused us to retreat back inside for a bit! But, don't fret! Get yourself a cup of good tea and take a moment to relax.

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What's happening at Townsend Draft Goods - May 25

There's been a lot happening at Townsend Draft Goods! We're gearing up for a great summer and it's been busy!

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Need a little boost of energy?

Try this energy shot formulated for energy & wellness! It's packed with Vitamins and is boosted with Red Korean Ginseng, Royal Jelly, & Propolis!

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A Metal Deodorant Stick?

Okay. we were perplexed, too. What is an aluminum, refillable, deodorant stick? We had to get some and open the box. Watch us work through our perplexity and find out the truth!

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What is Oil Pulling for your teeth?

Basically, you swish oil around your teeth for as long as you can to "pull" out the bacteria and crap that's built up. Then spit it out.

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DIY Bug Spray Kit - Safe for your body

This kit has everything you need to make a year's supply of bug spray! It's safe for your skin, safe for spraying around the house and pets, and you choose how strong it needs to be! Takes less than 5 minutes to make! Step 1 - Pour a little witch hazel into your glass cobalt bottle (about 2 tablespoons). Step 2 - Add 5-10 drops of the Bug Blend essential oil. Step 3 - Fill the rest of the bottle with water. Spray on your body, on your clothes, on your hair, in window seals, and anywhere you need to deter bugs! Refill as needed! Your kit includes items for a 1-year supply! Free Velvet Drawstring Bag You get a free velvet drawstring bag for storage or travel with your kit! Your DIY kit is designed by Townsend Draft Goods. Buy your kit here at https://townsenddraftgoods.com/products/diy-bug-spray-kit-free-velvet-storage-drawstring-bag-included Not a DIY person? We offer mixes already formulated! See options at https://townsenddraftgoods.com/blogs/news/natural-bug-spray-theres-many-uses-and-a-little-goes-a-long-way.

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Natural Bug Spray

Natural Bug Spray - There's many uses! And a little goes a long way!

You can deter insects and other bugs in a more natural way. Other uses include spraying around your farm windows to deter lady bugs, spraying your furry friend before going on that walk through the meadow, and keeping it in your cookout chair (versus holding your index finger above your head!)

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Our shop is open 11-5 on Saturday, May 10th

We have flowers & other fit options for Mother's Day. Locals can stop by our shop on Saturday.

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What's been going on at Townsend Draft Goods? May 4

What's been going on at Townsend Draft Goods? Lots of great happenings in Mill Gap and good stuff for you... check us out!

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Flowers at the Barn

We have a selection of beautiful flowers for Mother’s Day! Come by our shop in Mill Gap! We’ll have something new and fresh every week this spring and summer

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Stinging Nettle: Nature's Antidote for Allergies

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) are gaining popularity for managing allergy symptoms naturally.

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The Hangover Patch

The Hangover Plus Patch is formulated to support recovery from the effects of alcohol consumption. This patch provides fast and convenient relief, quick recovery after a night of drinking.

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Happenings at Townsend Draft Goods - April 14

Hi there! What’s been happening at Townsend Draft Goods? Had a great weekend with local folks picking up orders & finding golden discounts! You can get your golden discount this Saturday, 4/19/25, by coming by our operations between 12-5 p.m. in Mill Gap! Accounting department hard a work! It’s tax season and our “Accounting department” has been hard at work, aka Raven. Our little helper, Lucy, double checks the numbers! New hairstyle for the youngest Townsend & the oldest Townsend made the paper! Dad made the front page news of The Recorder! It’s a great article about water witching. And Zeda got a new hairstyle! The Recorder newspaper April 10, 2025 New hairstyle for Townsend Raven is working on her "Registered Herbalist" certification Raven at Townsend Draft Goods Herbalism study at The Art & Science of Herbalism As a student in Rosemary Gladstar's course, The Science & Art of Herbalism, this accomplishment will combine well with her current Ayurvedic Health Educator certification where she offers wellness consultations. Sign up for a consultation today to learn about your unique body type and how to optimize your health with a custom-designed order of healthy goods specific to you. Consultation for Custom Order w/ Townsend Draft Goods Coming up this month! We have partnered with Banyan Botanicals! What does this mean for you? You’re gonna benefit from GREAT discounts and inside exposure to elite Ayurvedic products from Banyan Botanicals! Stay tuned for special discounts and upcoming wellness workshop opportunities. #livingbanyanpartner, #livingbanyancreator Happy Easter! Wishing everyone an abundant year of grace and blessings. Saturday, 4/19/25, get a golden discount! The 50% golden egg is still hidden - you could be the lucky one!

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Water Witching at Townsend Draft Goods

Water witching, also known as dowsing, is an ancient practice shrouded in mystery and tradition. Its roots run deep in cultures around the world, but it holds a particularly cherished place in Appalachian folklore.

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Today is 108

Today is October 8. 108 The number 108 carries layered meaning across sacred geometry, Vedic astrology, yogic practice, and mystical numerology: • Sacred Geometry — 108 represents the harmonic structure of the universe, often seen as the number that bridges the finite and infinite. Many geometric mandalas use 108 divisions to symbolize cosmic wholeness. • Sun–Earth–Moon Ratio — In Vedic cosmology, the diameter of the Sun is ~108 times the Earth’s diameter, and the distance from Earth to Sun is ~108 solar diameters. The same proportionality appears with the Moon, giving 108 a celestial resonance. • Mala Beads — A traditional mala has 108 beads to represent 108 stages of spiritual realization, 108 energy lines (nadis) converging at the heart chakra, and the completion of a full mantra cycle. • Vedic Astrology — The zodiac contains 12 signs × 9 planetary subdivisions (navamsas) = 108, making it the number that encodes the full karmic map of human experience. • Nadis — Yogic anatomy teaches that 108 primary nadis flow from the heart center, making the number symbolic of the body’s energetic architecture. • Mantra Science — Repeating a mantra 108 times is said to purify all 108 forms of human delusion (kleshas) and align the practitioner with cosmic vibration. • Tantric Numerology — 108 is the triad of 1 (unity), 0 (emptiness), and 8 (infinity), representing the full cycle of creation, dissolution, and rebirth. • Planetary Cycles — Many Vedic planetary cycles, distances, and orbital harmonics reduce to 108 or its factors, making it a key number for mapping cosmic rhythm and timing. Post compiled by M. Raven Sponaugle using Copilot.

Reminder: We are closed Thursday, Friday, & Saturday this week

are closed Thursday, Friday, & Saturday this week. So order fulfillment will be delayed until we open again on Tuesday, 10/6. Thank you for your patience.

Shop hours

LIMITED SHOP HOURS THIS WEEK! Because I’m getting married!

LIMITED SHOP HOURS THIS WEEK! Because I’m getting married, the shop is closed Thursday, Friday, & Saturday this week only! Tuesday, 9/29, OPEN 11-6 PM Wednesday, 9/30, OPEN 11-6 PM Thursday, 10/1, Closed Friday, 10/2, Closed Saturday, 10/3, Closed

sacred jewelry

We have Unique Big Beautiful Rings!

I have my grandma's hands: The Pitsenbarger Hands. Strong, short, and "fat". What that means is that I have big fingers. Meaning they are larger than normal and to add to it, shorter than normal. I always had a hard time finding rings to fit. And I LIKE RINGS. So, I made it a priority to have a large (pun intended) selection of rings. Many are adjustable, many are in larger sizes, and they are UNIQUE! Shop our rings at: https://townsenddraftgoods.com/collections/sacred-jewelry/Ring+Rings

It’s Friday!

It’s Friday and it’s time to let your hair down! Drink some zippy tea & have fun. Our shop in Monterey at 26 Fleisher Avenue is OPEN 11-6 pm Friday & Saturday! Come by & treat yourself 💫

Wild Garden & Treasure Hunting!

Our garden at Townsend Draft can be described as "wild" and "untamed." We did plant the tomatoes in rows as well as the flowers; which made it easier to find those ripe, red treasures among the weeds! You can find joy in the small things and allow yourself to let the chaos persist sometimes. That's how we view our garden!

Mark Swecker is the winner of the $75 gift certificate!

Thanks to all of the great customers and support shown during the Week of the Highland County Fair! We offered a chance to win a $75 gift certificate for any purchase made during Fair week. We hosted a LIVE drawing & Mark Swecker was the winner! You can view the Live video at https://www.facebook.com/61566370754141/videos/1599682368416185

Storefront in Monterey

Happy Friday!! Shop 11-6 pm today at 26 Fleisher Avenue

Happy Friday!! Shop 11-6 pm today at 26 Fleisher Avenue! Come by our booth at the Fair today 6-9 pm. And good luck to all the Derby drivers tonight!

News at Townsend Draft Goods

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