The Oldest General Store In Louisiana Has A Fascinating History
By Kezia Kamenetz
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Published November 07, 2016
It’s not surprising that you’ll find the most fascinating general store in Louisiana in the oldest settlement in the state, Natchitoches. But this store is really something special. It’s been run by the same family since before the Civil War—and it has seen this country through many volatile times. We think you’ll be amazed!
If you have never visited this incredibly unique store in Natchitoches, you are in for a real treat!
You'll find Louisiana's oldest general store right in the middle of downtown Natchitoches, at 758 Front St.
This store was established in 1863 and has been family operated since then.
It's now under the third generation of family management, and has weathered more than a few storms over the decades.
The store began as a door to door peddling operation that lasted through the Civil War. By 1893, the Kaffie brothers paid $1,616.29 for the land and construction of the building the store is in today.
Almost the entire interior and exterior of the building has remained the same since ten.
Sticking to their values and keeping to traditions has helped this incredible store survive some of the most tumultuous decades of American history.
From WWI to the Great Depression to WWII, the Kaffie-Frederick store has remained a place where you can rely on friendly, personal service and an eclectic array of goods that you just can't find anywhere else. There are some really special items to be discovered here. It's easy to just wander around looking at all the goods and totally lose track of time.
This store even has an old school cash register that is operated through a hand crank―and they still use it today!
As you can see from their key center, they are really committed to doing things in the old school way. That's what makes this store so charming to visit every time.
When you pay a visit to the store, don't forget to check out the upstairs showroom, which was part of the original construction.
You'll find very unique items up there--and you'll get an awesome view of the store from above.
Taking in all of the incredible items available here, you can really feel like you have stepped back in time.
They specialize in tools, hardware, kitchen items, home & garden, and children's items.
When you go to visit the store, we think you'll discover tools and other hardware items that you haven't seen in years.
It really gives you a sense of why doing things in the old way is a good idea; it might take a little longer, but at least it is sturdy and dependable.
So go ahead and plan a visit to the oldest general store in Louisiana.
You will feel like you are traveling back in time―and it will certainly relax you.
Doesn’t this store look like something really special? Let us know what you think about visiting here. We love to hear your feedback!
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