By Vicky
In the turn of the 19th century,
general stores were used as not only a necessary source of supplies like food
and clothing to villagers, but it was also a social area to gather.
In day-to-day use, the general store was
used to buy items such as medicine, clothing, and food. In the store, if you
made or had something like a hat or eggs, you could give it to the store owner
for credit. The credit could be used for anything in the store. This was especially
good because at this time, if you weren’t getting paid regularly or had little
money, you cold use your store credit in times of need.
Compared to stores today, the general store
stands out. Today when you enter a store you usually take a cart and walk
around and take things as you please. At the general store, the owner behind
the counter served you and there were very little options of items; what the
store had is what you got.
In the general store there was also a post
office where your mail would be delivered. It took up a very small part of the
store but played a key role in its function. Not only were you going to the
general store to get your daily needs, you got your mail there as well.
The general store was also a place for
travellers and friends to gather and be social. There was a large furnace in
the back to the store and lots of room to sit. The store was open early in the
morning and closed late at night to allow lots of shopping to be done, as well
as give people the time to socialize.
The general store was a very necessary aspect of the village, and
significant to everyone’s way of life.
Vicky is a grade 11 student at Trinity College School and guest writer for the Museum.