(WTAJ) -- Pennsylvania is home to a lot of old and persevered things from the past. Do you know where the oldest general store in Pa. is?
A general store, as defined by Merriam-Webster, is a retail store usually located in a small or rural community that carries a wide variety of goods, including groceries, but is not divided into departments. Other common names for a general store are convenience, barter, one-stop or country store.
What about general stores in Pennsylvania?
While there are many general stores in the Commonwealth, one very special one owns the title of being the oldest general store. Located in a village on the Delaware River, the Lumberville General Store dates back to 1770.
In its early days, the general store was run by Colonel George Wall Jr., a Revolutionary War hero. Wall Jr., born in Bucks County, was a member of the Bucks County Second Battalion. During the Revolutionary War, Wall Jr. followed General George Washington in various campaigns.
In 1800s, the general store also served as the areas post office. Throughout the years, ownership changed, but the general store always remained a family owned business.
Currently, the store is owned by a local businessman who also owns the historic Lumberville Black Bass Hotel. The store is home to many local products from candles to marmalade.
Other old general stores across the state
Philadelphia is home to three of the oldest general stores in Pennsylvania. Bassetts Ice Cream Shop, located in Reading Terminal Market, opened in 1892. Before moving to the market though, the shop was originally opened in Philly in 1885.
Klein's Supermarket, which opened in 1892, the supermarket is known by locals as the store that stays open no matter what. Even during something such as a blizzard, Klein's is still open for business.
Finally, Shane Confectionery, is the oldest continuously operating confectionary in the United States. The shop opened in 1863 and has been a popular spot for generations.