Most of us are probably used to going to the nearest big box or chain grocery store to do some shopping. However, there’s one community in Idaho that still keeps it old school. Hiding out in the small town of Almo, Idaho is the oldest continuously running store in the state. Boasting all of its original charms, visiting the store feels like traveling back in time to Idaho’s early days. If you have an appreciation for the way things used to be, then a visit to the oldest store in the state is a must.
Whereas many general stores from Idaho's early days have long gone out of business, there's one that endures. In fact, it's considered the longest continually operating store in Idaho and visiting it is a real treat.
Founded by brothers William and Harry Eames in 1894, the Tracy General Store is a true gem of the past. Almo residents have been relying on this historic business for over a century and surprisingly enough, the store is doing better than ever.
The current owners, Kent and Janis Durfee, purchased the mercantile back in 2015. The store had gone through quite a few changes over the decades, but the Durfees restored it to its original charming appearance. They began selling a wider range of items and lowering prices in order to appeal more to locals rather than just tourists.
The store offers a plethora of typical grocery items. It doesn't have everything, but it has what you need. Janis even sells homemade and freshly-prepared lunch specials on a daily basis.
However, its the store's historic charm that really makes it a must-stop destination. The mercantile's crown jewel is the National-brand cash register that rang up purchases from the store's opening all the way until 2003. It's still on display in the store, front and center for everyone to see.
Although a few modern conveniences have been added such as an ATM and the ability to pay your tab online, Tracy's General Store still feels like a time capsule of Idaho's early days. We couldn't be happier to see this store thriving, so be sure to stop by for a look back to yesteryear.
