Posted in Illinois November 08, 2016 by

The Oldest General Store In Illinois Has A Fascinating History

While some places tear down old buildings and replace them with new, Illinois tends to cherish its architectural history and honor the past. This is certainly evident with its oldest general store. While the ownership has changed over the years, this building has housed a general store for 120 years.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
The Manley Building was constructed in 1895. The first general store opened here in 1896.
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
The first store was called 'Enterprise' and it operated for 15 years.
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
In 911, the store was purchased by a new owner and operated as 'Cash Supply Store.'
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
The current owners, Terry and Susan Thomas, purchased the store in 1979 and named it 'Mansfield General Store.'
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
Today, the store is a unique blend of the historic and new.
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
While many of the fixtures are new or updated, their style is in keeping with the building's history.
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
The candy counter is a long-standing store tradition.
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
The store has some displays of memorabilia from years gone by.
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
Mansfield General Store sells some old-fashioned merchandise such as candy...
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
...wind up toys...
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
...and Coca Cola merchandise.
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
Patrons find fresh-baked goods available every morning.
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
The store also offers many flavors of soft-serve ice cream, greeting cards, DVD rentals, and gifts.
Google
Visit Mansfield General Store at 107 N. Jefferson Street in Mansfield.

Have you ever visited Mansfield General Store?

Feeling nostalgic now? Take a look at this adorable little town that offers a historic trolley ride!