Learning about The Witchery from owner Clyde Wood

AM – Today I am joined by Clyde Wood, owner of The Witchery in Galveston, TX. Thank you for joining me today Clyde!

CW – Thank you for having me. I appreciate your interest in The Witchery.

AM – How did The Witchery come about? Did you just decide one day that you wanted to open a metaphysical shop or was it more of a lifelong dream that finally came to fruition?

CW – I guess a little of both. I’ve been a student of the Mysteries for 25 years. I’ve traveled the world and have been to many metaphysical shops, some good and some bad. I’ve always imagined that perfect shop that has everything I was looking for and that feels like it has been there forever. I pitched the idea of opening a shop to my wife for years and in 2006 we started going to trade shows to educate ourselves about the business, but it was still just a dream. Finally in 2008 we became financially able to manifest the idea into reality.

AM – There are shops that you just buy things in and there are those that foster a sense of unity. What kind of role does The Witchery seek to play in Galveston and surrounding local Pagan communities?

CW – How does the saying go? “If you build it, they will come?” First and foremost I want to be a bookstore with all the information people need that are on, or are searching for, a path. I also want to have all of the things necessary for them to put their chosen path into practice and, finally, I had to create a space that appealed to those that love the “mystical” and are sensitive to subtle energies. Since we opened, a magical community of gifted artists, craftsmen, students and teachers has supported us and are providing us with handmade products, instruction and, most importantly, a close family of loyal customers.

AM – How did the shop fare during Hurricane Ike?

CW – Not good. We spent a lot of time and energy preparing for the storm. We boarded up the glass front and filled over 200 sandbags that we stacked two feet high along the front of the store. I don’t believe anyone anticipated what happened. Eight feet of water broke through the glass storefront together with over 100 mph winds. I’m sure you can imagine the damage it caused.

AM – The space you are in now is gorgeous. Can you tell us a little bit about the history of the old “Central Drug Store” building?

CW – Well, the whole island is just oozing with history. Our friend who was volunteering at Rosenberg Library uncovered tons of information for us. The building was built in 1914 and began as a lingerie shop, after a few years it changed to a women’s hat shop and by 1920 became Central Drug Store, which it remained until the late 1980’s. It had a soda fountain and you can still see the built in coolers behind the counter where they kept the ice cream. After that it was a couple of different antique stores until it came up for sale after Hurricane Ike. We bought it “as is” and did a total restoration. We’ve incorporated antique apothecary furniture salvaged from the storm to create an ambience that respects the history of the building.

AM – You currently have a series of Tarot classes going on. What other classes and activities do you have planned?

CW – Right now, we have a Pagan Meetup on the first Sunday of every month and because of the haunted nature of the island we’re considering adding a Paranormal Meetup soon. We have become friends with so many talented people, at this point it’s just a matter of scheduling and what everyone’s interested in, but look for a monthly pet-psychic, astrology classes and a continuing course in practical magick.

AM – Lastly, when customers walk away from The Witchery, what are you hoping that they take away with them?

CW – Full shopping bags! (laughs) Seriously, everyday someone shares their experience with me, either personally or through social networking such as Facebook and email. Overall, people are leaving with a sense that they’ve experienced something positive in a place that’s fun to explore and excites their senses. I’m happy with that!

AM – Again, thank you so much for your time Clyde! We wish you continued success and abundance with your business.

The Witchery is a metaphysical book and gift shop located at 2116 Postoffice Street on Galveston Island. They are open on Tuesday thru Saturday from 11:00 am - 7:00 pm and on Sundays from 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm. You can find them online at The Witchery.

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