Located on the historic site of the original 1824 prison, the Maine State Prison Showroom is a premier retail destination for high-quality, inmate-made goods. Operated by the Maine Department of Corrections, the showroom serves as a vital part of a rehabilitative vocational program, teaching inmates marketable trades like woodworking, upholstery, and engraving.
Whether you are looking for sturdy heirloom furniture or unique maritime souvenirs, the showroom offers over 600 items that highlight exceptional craftsmanship and Maine heritage.
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/MSPShowroom/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/maine-state-prison-showroom-thomaston
- Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/cVP9ah26Vbu9wbdu6
Visitor Information and Logistics
The showroom is designed to be accessible and welcoming for all visitors traveling along the Route 1 corridor.
| Category | Details |
| Address | 358 Main St, Thomaston, ME 04861, United States |
| Phone | +1 207-354-9237 |
| Operating Hours | Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Open Year-Round) |
| Parking | Large, free on-site lot with wheelchair-accessible spaces |
| Payment Options | Cash, Credit Cards, and Debit Cards accepted |
| Shipping Policy | In-person pickup only; shipping/delivery is generally not provided |
Diverse Product Catalog
The inventory at the showroom is vast and constantly evolving. Visitors can find everything from small kitchen gadgets to full bedroom sets.
| Category | Popular Items |
| Wooden Furniture | Adirondack chairs, bureaus, desks, coffee tables, and chests |
| Home & Kitchen | Hand-turned salad bowls, cutting boards, clocks, and lazy Susans |
| Outdoor & Garden | Lighthouse birdhouses, cornhole sets, and garden holders |
| Toys & Novelties | Wooden dollhouses, rocking lobsters, and model sailing ships |
| Textiles & Leather | Leather belts, wallets, decorative pillows, and “Shawshank” apparel |
| Art & Decor | Woodland paintings, jewelry boxes, and carved bear tables |
The Shopping Experience
Upon entering the showroom, visitors are greeted by the pleasant, natural aroma of fresh cedar and pine. The atmosphere is rustic and spacious, allowing shoppers to browse a massive selection of goods at their own pace.
- Signature Landmark: The entrance features “Neptune’s Ride,” a life-sized wooden sculpture of the sea god on a motorcycle, showcasing the advanced carving skills taught in the program.
- Quality Construction: Many pieces feature professional English dovetail joints and solid wood construction, with many visitors comparing the quality to Amish-made goods.
- Amenities: The facility includes clean public restrooms and is known for being pet-friendly for brief visits.
- Custom Orders: The showroom allows for custom orders on certain furniture and toy items to meet specific customer needs.
History and Mission
The program is one of the oldest in the United States. While the main prison moved to Warren in 2002, the woodshop there remains a massive operation—roughly the size of a football field—employing between 120 and 140 inmates.
| Aspect | Information |
| Ownership | Owned by the State of Maine (Department of Corrections) |
| Governing Body | Maine Correctional Industries |
| Business Model | Self-supporting, non-profit government entity |
| Purpose | Vocational rehabilitation and skill-building for inmates |
| Revenue Use | Reinvested into materials, machinery, and inmate wages |
The Maine State Prison Showroom offers a unique opportunity to purchase American-made goods at reasonable prices while supporting a program that prepares individuals for successful reentry into the workforce.