2017 Village Award Winner: Dinosaur Hill
Off the Grid is highlighting the 2017 Village Awards winners in the lead up to the June 6th Annual Meeting & Award Ceremony. Click here for more information about the event and to RSVP. Read about other awardees here.
Dinosaur Hill, an East Village stalwart for over 30 years, is a toy store which features an eclectic and unusual collection of toys, puppets and clothing for children up to the age of fourteen. Opened by owner Pam Pier in 1983, Dinosaur Hill not only offers thoughtfully curated, unique and handcrafted items and gifts for children, it is also actively engaged in the East Village community of which it is such a vital part.
Dinosaur Hill is not just a store, it’s an experience. Pam has created a welcoming environment where children and parents are encouraged to handle and have fun with the merchandise. Some of the items sold are hand-made by artisans in the neighborhood — mostly women at home with children that have, over the years, made wonderful clothing and accessories for the store.
Pam grew up in South Dakota. When she came to New York, she taught preschoolers at the Downtown Community School. The school was at the present site of the Third Street Music School on East 11th Street, and closed in 1972.
Pam has been very active over the years at the Green Oasis community garden. She has also participated in reading encouragement programs at local schools, providing gifts to children who complete a reading challenge.
In spite of great competitive pressure from big box stores and internet shopping sites, Dinosaur Hill has been able to thrive due to Pam providing a high level of personal service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. She has an uncanny ability to find the perfect gift for any age and occasion and she will beautifully wrap your selection at no extra charge. Dinosaur Hill has developed an excellent reputation and loyal following over the years. Dinosaur Hill is a perfect example of a unique neighborhood store that closely reflects the philosophy and personality of its owner. Parents are now bringing their children to the store that they loved as kids.
To celebrate Pam and Dinosaur Hill and the other great awardees’ contributions to our neighborhood, come to the June 6th Annual Meeting & Award Ceremony. Click here for more information about the event and to RSVP.