For nearly two centuries we have been in business in Provincetown. We undertake businesses that add to the economic and social sustainability of Provincetown and Cape Cod.
The landmark Marine Specialties store provides one of the most unique shopping destinations in the world uniquely Provincetown quirky and unusual with unusual stuff from around the world. A destination for all with something for everyone. In a world of chain stores and lack of uniqueness we are an anchor helping to keep Provincetown a unique place.
Please check individual pages to learn more about them.
Shankpainter Associates was formed in 1976 by Robert "Bob" Patrick and Elizabeth "Ghee" Patrick to acquire and develop over 50 acres of land in Provincetown, MA stretching from Shankpainter Road to the Cape Cod National Seashore boundary at the West end of Shankpainter Pond near Herring Cove Beach.
Over the past four decades this development has included small residential subdivisions, and the development of commercial properties both for sale and rent that now house well know local businesses. This site has provided a home for businesses including Cape Cod Oil, J&E Fruit, Patrick Studios, the warehouses for Shop Therapy and Marine Specialties, and numerous contractors and small businesses.
Many Provincetown jobs rely on commercial space originally developed by or currently owned by Shankpainter Associates. In 1995 Shankpainter associates permitted a 7.5 acre luxury pond view subdivision. This property also included the most environmentally remarkable uplands of the entire Shankpainter parcel and through the great efforts of the Provincetown Conservation Trust and the foresight of Provincetown voters the town of Provincetown purchased this prime subdivision in its entirety and it now forms the heart of the “Shankpainter Pond Sanctuary” along with an additional 22 acres of Shankpainter Pond and additional uplands that were donated to the Provincetown Conservation Trust.
The current Shankpainter Associates parcel is one of the largest underdeveloped General Commercial zoned parcels in Provincetown. The 15,000 sqft warehouse situated on the site which houses the Marine Specialties warehouse and Patrick Studios, providing artist studio and small business space. Patrick Studios has become a de-facto entrepreneurial and artistic incubator for artists and micro businesses.
The proposed Barracks project located on the same site in a new building will provide workforce housing and dormitory space for educational programs. The Patrick family has sought to develop this property in ways that support the continued viability of the community aiding in efforts at conservation, preserving our arts community, fostering small business, economic development, and most recently developing workforce housing for people that live and work in Provincetown.