The Oldest General Store In North Carolina Has A Fascinating History

There’s something about general stores that bring out the nostalgia within us all. Maybe the way the hardwoods creak, maybe the nooks and crannies packed to the brim with goods we can only find there, maybe the smiling faces who are strangers but immediately feel like an old friend. You can’t find this down home quality anywhere else, and North Carolina is filled with fascinating general stores – yet one is simply different than the rest.

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Facebook / Washburns General Washburn's General Store was established in 1831. It originally housed a tavern, inn and mercantile store that served travelers between Rutherford and Lincoln Counties. Yelp / Washburns General One thing that is truly unique to the history of Washburn's is that it was always a family business, and today, still remains in the family. It's been passed down through five generations. Founder Benjamin Washburn handed down the store through brothers, sons, and today - his great-great grand nephew Edward Nollie Washburn III. Today, it is recognized as the oldest family run business in North Carolina. Emory Rakestraw The most fascinating thing is that, even if you pop in this little general store in Bostic - you're sure to have a great conversation with Edward himself. On my visit, he sat quietly reading a newspaper, the store dog, Archie, snored quietly behind a counter. He immediately started talking to us and told us everything about the history of the store, specific goods, and he told me about his grandchildren and we talked about just about anything. Emory Rakestraw You can find just about anything here, from a wood stove, overalls to tending the farm (even oversized ones), kitchenware, local vegetables, pickled vegetables, to a classic washboard that you might've thought no longer existed. Facebook / Washburns General Store One signature aspect of Washburn's is the train, it traverses around the main section of the store and has been that way for years. Children love it and adults find simple nostalgia in the joy of simplistic touches. Facebook / Washburns General The store dog Archie is always there to greet you with a wagging tail, but sometimes, he just prefers to snooze behind the counter. Emory Rakestraw There's ceramics for the home, brooms for the kitchen, even a sandwich station to make lunch to-go. The quirky store hasn't changed much since first opening, if anything, just adapting to the modern times a bit more while still keeping the old-fashioned alive and well. Facebook / Washburns General Store You might even catch Washburn hanging out with a few pals. The group likes to sit and chat, reminisce on the old days and talk about the new - of course, while sipping coffee. Emory Rakestraw Facebook / Washburns General Washburn's General Store is one of the most unique experiences you'll have in North Carolina. I have a postcard from here hanging on my fridge and always remember my visit fondly. From having a long chat with Ed, to browsing unique finds, even just experiencing some history - there's really nothing else like it in North Carolina. On your visit, you might notice the gorgeous house across the street that could've been plucked straight from an antebellum novel or even Gone with the Wind, that's where Ed Washburn lives with his wife, the house his grandfather built in 1915- another unique aspect to this amazing place. The family estate, store, a barn, and 10 other buildings are all recognized as a historic district by the National Department of Interior.

Washburn’s General Store – 2426 Bostic Sunshine Hwy, Bostic, NC 28018

If you find yourself at Washburn’s and want to do more exploring in the area, from restaurants, to a distillery, a historic town and even world class equestrian center – here’s a full guide!