The Mount Lebanon Trading Post
A place for sharing since 1943 . BY PAMELA PALONGUE
During World War II , many items were rationed . 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 . They took the suggestion and set up a new trading post at the 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 for the trading post .
In 1985 , the Mt . Lebanon Trading Post moved to its present location in Dormont on Potomac Avenue . The group kept the 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 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 for utility bills , groceries or home repairs . It also helps the customers , who can find affordable items for their home , clothing for work , or even gifts for friends and family .
Besides clothing , shoes and accessories , you can also find home decor and knickknacks , linens , kitchen items , lamps and small appliances . The shop does not sell furniture , however , because of a lack of space .
Perella says , “ It ’ s more like the experience of shopping in a boutique
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