General Stores have been the foundation of American commerce since the founding of Jamestown. Today these stores, as in days of old, hold a wealth of everyday items as well as a treasure trove of unusual, unique and hard to find merchandise. Traditionally found in small or rural areas, General Stores emerged as the local Corner Stores found throughout larger inner city neighborhoods. The allure of a General Store is in the shopping experience. Whether you are in need of a specific article or just browsing the aisles, there is always going to be something you either havent seen in years, that will invoke found memories, or something new and innovative that you just cant resist. In the smaller rural areas, General Stores still flourish. The owner, who usually lives nearby, will personalize the business by placing his name on the shop sign, such as Johnnys General Store, or Grandmas General Store. These businesses offer an array of everyday needs whether consumer goods or perishable foods. There is the added touch of locally made products and handmade crafts. These items are not to be found outside the shop’s doors. Besides the normal stock of merchandise, the owner will accommodate customers by special ordering items from catalogs that can be delivered directly to the store.
