NORWICH – Almost 21 years after its founding, Made in Chenango, Inc. gift shop and gallery has seen visitors from all 50 states and dozens of foreign countries.

Despite this, Made in Chenango members say they are still surprised to find out many locals have yet to experience what the shop has to offer from its location in the heart of downtown Norwich.

"It's always amazing," said Made in Chenango member Deborah Whitman, who was the non-profit's director when it was founded in 1997. "Every time we have a guest artist reception, people come in and say, 'I've never been here before!' and we say, 'Oh, where are you from?' and they say, 'Oh, Norwich.'"

Today Made in Chenango, Inc. consists of 19 artist members from Chenango County or in close proximity whose works are available for purchase in its shop at 25 N Broad Street in Norwich.

Shoppers can find locally crafted art, jewelry, clothing, literature, pottery, woodcrafts, maple syrup, and more in the store.

Whitman said Made in Chenango, Inc. was founded as a way to try to bring more life into downtown Norwich. Its name was inspired by bumper stickers Whitman saw when she lived in Colorado that said 'Buy Colorado,' and also products from Vermont that boast 'Made in Vermont.'