Crystal Caboose

Who knew, that in West Chazy, in North Country New York State, there would be such an awesome folk magic and magickal supply store? Well, I did, but that’s only because I did my research and realized that those podunk people in Plattsburgh where I grew up? They do a lot more magic than they give themselves credit for.
Venue:
Before we even get to what treasure you can behold in this store, let’s talk about the fact that it’s not even a store. It’s an actual caboose. As in, from a train, refurbished and on fake railroad tracks, caboose. It’s ADORABLE! Now, I don’t use all caps lightly, but this by far the coolest shop idea ever, and only someone in the North Country would think of it.
Just off of the 87 on 22, there are (now) three portions of the store. The caboose, which holds all things gem and crystal, incense and tarot, new books and supplies; the community room, with a giant wall of 50% off books on one side and a ridiculous amount of beading supplies on the other; and the garage, which I don’t think was open when I was there, but where the classes and workshops are held. In true North Country fashion, the caboose is open from Thursday to Sunday, but if you call ahead, and they’re around, they’ll probably open if up for you.
Selection:
Now onto the awesome stuff. Crystals! Gems! Geodes! Oh my! And that’s just on one wall. All organized with detailed explanation cards and self-​selecting service, the amount and variety of stones I had to choose from were amazing. I had a list, and I don’t think I checked but once, I ended up buying so much extra stuff.
There’s a large selection of incense and oils (I’m not sure they’re all essential, so check them out first) as well as new books, jewelry and tarot cards. Pretty much any ritual supplies or cauldron stockings you may need, from herbs and chimes to candles and pendulums, are all crammed into every nook and cranny. I kid you not, I think I spent at least 30 minutes checking out the small space. Everywhere I looked had something new and amazing.
The community room was amazing as well. Unfortunately, I wasn’t into making jewelry when I went, or trust me, I would have raided that wall like no tomorrow. But the wall of books? I was sold. Almost all of them were under $ 10, and I must have picked up at least 5 books before my mother asked me how I was going to get them all on the plane. Blasted logic! Sometimes it leaves me! That said, my mother, who is, I guess we could say, spiritual in nature although often pokes fun at me and my metaphysical store raids, enjoyed the shop. She bought several incenses just make the house smell nice and found a cookbook she wanted – but forewent it simply because she has a billion.
On the price side, it’s the North Country, so after living in NYC everything seems so cheap. But it’s all very reasonably priced. I got 9 small-​ish polished quartz spears for $ 36, which anyone will tell you is a steal! In addition, I bought a few candles, a bunch of stones and a book all for un $ 50. There are always specials and deals going on, so make sure to check out the website and ask.
I cannot stress this enough: this isn’t just a place for the witchly-​inclined. From jewelry to wind chimes, findings and belly dancing skirts, this shop is quite possibly one of the best kept secrets in Champlain Valley. But I reveal it all unto you now! Go forth and forage from the Crystal Caboose. My mother may have moved down to Orlando, but you can bet that if I can find a reason to go back to the North Country and pillage the caboose again, I’ll take it.