A general store is a rural or small town store that carries a general line of merchandise. It often sells everyday food items such as milk and bread, and a variety of household goods such as hardware and electrical supplies. The town’s post office was usually tucked away in a corner of the store.
General stores were established during the 18th and 19th centuries in many communities where mobility was limited. Some general stores are still in business today, while others sit on the side of the road to remind passersby of what once was.
Here are 8 general stores in Nevada that will give you a sense of nostalgia:
1. This general store is located in Eureka, Nevada. It was built in 1882 as the Ottawa Hotel.
5. This photo of C & S General Merchandise, located on Main Street in Gerlach, Nevada, was taken during the late 1950s. The post office was also located inside this general store.
6. Rhyolite Mercantile was a general store located in Rhyolite, Nevada in the early 1900s. Sadly, this historic building burned in September 2014 after it was struck by lightning.
7. Good Springs General Store is located next to the Pioneer Saloon in Goodsprings, Nevada. At one time, Good Springs General Store was Goodsprings Cafe, a restaurant that served many hungry miners during the mining boom days.