This Old General Store In New Hampshire Has A Fascinating History
By Kelly A. Burch
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Published November 08, 2016
As one of the oldest states in the nation, New Hampshire is full of attractions with interesting histories. One of New Hampshire’s oldest general stores is no exception! Fadden’s General Store in North Woodstock isn’t just for picking up your forgotten groceries – it’s also the maker of some of the state’s most delicious maple syrup. The store and the syrup have been been passed through the family for more than 100 years now, so you know they must be doing something right!
At first glance, Fadden's General Store in North Woodstock doesn't look like a building that has been operating as a store since 1896.
However, owner Jim Fadden can trace the history of the store, and his family, back that long. He's even got the photos to prove it.
This picture was taken in 1897, a year after the general store opened. Back then, North Woodstock was an even tinier town, but Fadden's general store (on the left) was still taking care of the locals.
What really sets Fadden's apart, besides it's longevity, is its maple syrup.
Generations of the Fadden family have made thousands of gallons of maple syrup, and have become well-known throughout New Hampshire.
In the 1930s, the Fadden family acquired access to a large amount of maples, and build an enormous sugar house. That is when the production of Fadden Maple Syrup really took off.
Today during sugaring season (late winter), you can see the sugar housing in action. The state of the art facilities produce 2,500 gallons of Maple Syrup annually, all of which is sold right here in New Hampshire.
Visitors can learn about the process of making Maple Syrup, from sap, to Saturday breakfasts. Although the Fadden family now uses a modern tubing system, they still have old-fashioned sap collection buckets for you to peek in to.
Seventh-generation owner Jim Fadden is always happy to share his sugaring knowledge with visitors to the store.
Of course, the store isn't just about maple syrup - it also sells essentials, treats, and even seasonal items like Christmas trees!
Every now and then, a taste of living history comes to Fadden's General Store when this beautiful duo of horses takes visitors on a tour of North Woodstock.
Fadden’s General Store is located at 109 Main Street in North Woodstock . Find more information online at www.nhmaplesyrup.com .
Want to visit more of New Hampshire’s living history? Check out these seven general stores that will make you feel nostalgic .
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