The Old General Store
The Traveling Scavenger Hunt
As I have said before…don’t just think about your destination, pay attention to the slices of Americana along the way. As documented many times, I always make a habit of stopping by a Muffler Man whenever my travels allow it. But, I have another target for your traveling scavenger hunt. How about the old General Store. To explain my interest in the old General Store, I give you the Blowing Cave Mill in Sevierville, Tennessee.
Characteristics of a Proper General Store
The most important qualification for a proper General Store is age. I would say it should be at least 100 years old. And, the store needs to look like it. Beyond the building, the contents need to be throw backs as well. Admittedly, the Blowing Cave Mill was first primarily a mill. But, the mill is all ornamental now. So, this 155 years old place is truly a proper General Store.
Strange Discoveries
You never know what you will find in these places. For the Blowing Cave Mill, my favorite spot was the cigarette themed area for adults, as well as kids……
As you see, there was an actual collection of cigarette packs from the 1940/50s. And, in case you are too young to start smoking. the store also provided look-a-like candy cigarettes. Its never to early to start kids on the right path to cancer. While the cigarette collection was questionable, it got worse…
I am pretty sure that lawn jockeys are considered a bit racist these days. But, it is Tennessee. On a much lighter note, the candy by the pound is a common staple at many proper General Stores. They had orange slices which is my favorite.
Past Encounters
As I mentioned, I have visited and written about these perfect slices of Americana in previous posts. Goosebuster and I had a marvelous hamburger at the Moonshine Store in Martinsville, IL…circa 1912. And, I have had multiple trips to my favorite general store of them all. That would be the Rabbit Hash General Store in Burlington, KY…established in 1837.
Wrap It Up
OK, enough said. I just wanted to recommend these hidden travel gems that are worthy pursuing in your travels. The old General Store is literally a slice of Americana. They can be a bit off the main road and sometimes hard to find. But, they are worth the hunt. Have a wonderful day. PT
I hope you have enjoyed reading “The Old General Store” on Traveling with PugsleyTonks.
Here were previous General Store posts… https://travelingwithpt.com/fine-dining-on-the-plains-of-illinois/
https://travelingwithpt.com/return-to-rabbit-hash/
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