The Handsome Jack Supply Co. opened in early June, and owner Murphy Gilson has stocked it with the kind of vinyl, watches, and pocket knives he loves. But he’ll tell you the shop is about more than what’s on the shelves.
“Brick-and-mortar shops, if they’re going to survive, really need to offer something the online experience doesn’t,” Gilson said. “That’s human connection.”
Gilson spent more than three decades in television and film, most of it in Los Angeles, where he worked as a writer and director and produced promos, trailers, and documentaries. He later served as executive creative director at the University of Washington before making a career change. “I just want to go do something small,” he said. “Let’s make things simple.”
He landed in Fremont for a familiar reason. He already spent his free time in the neighborhood catching live music, and the storefront at 223 N. 36th St., a former comic shop, was in his words, “too cute to pass up.”
The shop leans into what Gilson calls the stuff guys “geek out about,” like new and vintage vinyl, watches, handmade pocket knives, Zippo lighters, and cocktail infusers, plus Fremont Local T-shirts and stickers. Many items come from small makers, some of them local.
The shop doubles as a gathering place, with live music, workshops, art shows, and pop-ups. Its opening event was a Father’s Day “ladies night” built around the idea that men are notoriously hard to shop for. Handsome Jack has also become a stop on Fremont Fridays, the weekly arts-and-music series. Gilson said one recent Friday musical performance at the shop left him with “a heart full of gratitude.”
“I just love the energy on the street,” he added. On the street, passersby will notice two red deck chairs in front of the shop. People are welcome to take a seat and meet neighbors.
More plans are in the works. Gilson will add a barber station offering fades, once the shop clears plumbing and health-code requirements. He also hopes to bring in a pop-up tattoo artist.
For now, newcomers should not feel obligated to buy anything, he said. “Just come hang out.”
The Handsome Jack Supply Co. is at 223 N. 36th St. It is open most days except Monday and Tuesday, roughly noon to 7, though hours can vary. The shop is cards only, and dogs are welcome. The next Third Place, Third Thursday gathering runs 5 to 9 p.m. Aug. 20. Bring a book, a laptop, or your vinyl records.
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