Posted in Ohio January 24, 2021 by

The Oldest General Store In Ohio Has A Fascinating History

There’s just something about an old-fashioned general store that’s just so completely charming and nostalgic. General stores harken back to a simpler time, and are just plain fun to explore. Located in the heart of Amish Country, End of the Commons General Store is the oldest general store in Ohio, and has an absolutely fascinating history.

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Ohio's End Of The Commons general store is located, appropriately, in the heart of Amish Country.
End of the Commons General Store/Facebook
You'll find this utterly charming general store at the center of Mesopotamia Township, the fourth largest Amish settlement in the country and the second largest Amish settlement in Ohio.
End of the Commons General Store has been in operation since 1840 -- not too long after Ohio officially became a state.
End of the Commons General Store/Facebook
Pictured is the general store in the mid-1800s. The Schaden family owns and operates the store today, which was full of old store products, supplies, furniture and fixtures from the late 19th-century when the family first purchased the store.
This old-fashioned, family-run general store is a bedrock in the community, serving the surrounding Amish Country for more than 170 years.
End of the Commons General Store/Facebook
Many of the antiques and products were kept to preserve the store's history and are on display in the store today. Penny candy is even available for purchase. (And yes, it only costs a penny!)
Today, the general store is a popular, must-stop attraction for visitors exploring Ohio Amish Country.
End of the Commons General Store/Facebook
You'll find unbeliveably delicious fry pies...
... tons of old-fashioned candy,
End of the Commons General Store/Facebook
(The salt water taffy wagon is legendary.)
... and pretty much everything you'd expect at a general store.
End of the Commons General Store/Facebook
End Of The Commons stocks an incredible array of household items, old-time memorabilia, handmade wares, and even clothes.
A visit to Ohio's End Of The Charm Commons is like stepping back in time.
End of the Commons General Store/Facebook
You'll likely see a horse and buggy or two parked outside as well.
Be sure to visit during the holiday season, which is especially delightful.
End of the Commons General Store/Facebook
Come the holidays, you'll find the general store beautifully decorated. It's a great place to find one-of-a-kind, only-in-Ohio gifts.

End of the Commons General Store is located at 4366 Kinsman Road, Mesopotamia, OH, 44439. Have you ever been here before? If so, share your experiences with us!

For more on Ohio’s beautiful and historic Amish Country, be sure to check out this one-day road trip and these 12 picture-perfect places.

Address: 8719 OH-534, Mesopotamia, OH 44439, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

Oldest General Store In Ohio

January 29, 2021
Sarah

Are there any other nostalgic places in Ohio?

It doesn’t get much more nostalgic than a good, old-fashioned general store, and happily, Ohio’s general store game is strong: Pfeiffer Station General Store is iconic. Established in 1849, this still-operating general store truly provides you with a journey back in time. Baked goods, fresh cheeses, and a large old fashioned candy section are just a few of the charming finds here. And for another general store in Amish Country, Olivesburg General Store was founded in the 1840s and is a total throwback, selling hand-dipped ice cream cones, old-time candies, speciality groceries, antiques, Amish crafts and fresh-made deli sandwiches with Amish cheeses.

Are there any good Amish bakeries in Ohio?

If you’ve lived in Ohio for any length of time, then you know just how special Ohio Amish Country is. From the scenic rolling hills to the home-cooked meals and restaurants, there’s so much to love. Miller’s Bakery in Millersburg might just be the area’s very best bakery. Known for their massive, face-sized cinnamon rolls, this beloved bakery is worth its own day trip. You’d better bring a hearty appetite, though!

What’s the largest Amish community in Ohio?

Mesopotamia Township, where the oldest general store in Ohio is located, is the second largest Amish community in the state. The largest Amish community in Ohio is actually in Holmes and its adjoining counties in northeast Ohio, located about 78 miles south of Cleveland.

Address: 8719 OH-534, Mesopotamia, OH 44439, USA