Dan LaLone
Contributing Writer

(Photo By Dan LaLone – Wayne Hayward is proud to show off his stock of collectibles and memorabilia.)

 

After a brief hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic, Eaton Rapids’ beloved “Cool Store” is back in business and better than ever. Located at 116 W. Knight St., the shop, owned and operated by Wayne Hayward, reopened in November 2024, bringing a fresh wave of nostalgia and excitement to the community.

Previously known as Hayward and Son’s, the family-owned business underwent a rebranding shortly after its opening in 2012. The name change came about after visitors often remarked, “Wow, this place is cool,” and Hayward decided to adopt that sentiment as the store’s new identity. The store quickly became a local favorite for unique collectibles, memorabilia, antiques and a wide variety of eclectic items.

However, in 2021, the store closed due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. During the closure, Hayward did not slow down. He spent the time visiting yard sales, estate sales and other sources to find “cool” items that would eventually fill the store’s shelves. These items range from toys and household décor to vintage memorabilia and collectibles, everything from wrestling figurines to quirky bar wall hangings. Now, with renewed energy and plenty of stock on hand, The Cool Store is ready to serve the community again.

“I’ve been going through a lot of inventory, but I still have a lot more to sift through,” Hayward said. “I love seeing how excited people get when they find something that brings back a memory or sparks a conversation.”

The store is unique in that it does not specialize in one particular type of item. Instead, visitors will find a wide array of treasures. From vintage décor and children’s toys to items from the past that make for excellent conversation pieces, The Cool Store offers something for everyone. The walls are lined with everything from memorabilia related to wrestling and pop culture to beautiful, one-of-a-kind antiques.

Inventory is constantly changing, with new items being added each week as Hayward continues to work his way through the vast collection he has amassed. The store regularly holds sales, with announcements posted on social media, including its Facebook page, The Cool Store, and in the Flashes and The County Journal.

A simple walk downtown and The Cool Store is a must-stop visit, just around the corner from Main Street. Hayward encourages everyone to stop by and see what is new and to check back often, as there is always something different to discover. The stories and memories that can be found within the store’s walls are as captivating as the items themselves, and it is clear that The Cool Store has earned its reputation as a local gem. The Cool Store is open Tuesday- Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m.