The general stores of generations past have more or less faded from US towns and cities as more modern versions have taken their place. In a few places in rural Nebraska, though, the general store, variety store, five and dime, or whatever you want to call it is still alive and kicking.

R.F. Goeke is keeping that retro vibe alive in Atkinson with its delightfully old-school variety store/soda fountain.
Yelp/Brian F.
The store is located at 110 S Main St., Atkinson.

Rev. Randy Goeke and his partner have been operating this charming shop in Goeke's hometown for almost 20 years. They set out to create a shopping experience that recalled simpler times, when going into town to visit the shop was a big event.
The store carries pretty much what you would expect to find in a small-town variety store.
Facebook/R F Goeke Variety
Toys, fabric, yarn, stationery, office supplies, and small household items all line the shelves.

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The interior is jam-packed with quality items as well as nostalgia.
Facebook/R F Goeke Variety
The shop looks a lot like the general stores or variety stores that used to be found in almost every little Nebraska town. It even reminds me of the "dime store" that was still going strong in my own hometown in the '80s.
There's a reason that so much of the inventory centers on DIY and crafting items.
Facebook/R F Goeke Variety
Nebraskans are known for our love of making and doing, and these bolts of cloth and skeins of yarn will all be put to good use one day. They will be turned into quilts, baby blankets, sweaters, socks, and more by talented customers.

The big pull, however – particularly for tourists – is the working vintage soda fountain in the store. This great video from Joey Hoile gives some details about the fountain and the store’s role in the community.

Find R.F. Goeke Variety Store at 110 S Main St in Atkinson. They are open Monday – Friday 9 am – 6 pm and Saturday 9 am – 5 pm. Take a look at their Facebook page for news and more information.

If you grew up in a small town, this store will no doubt bring back some fond memories. This isn’t the only store of its kind still operating in Nebraska, though – what’s your favorite general store?

One of the oldest general stores in the state was turned into a fun antique shop. This old-style pharmacy in Springfield still has an operating soda fountain in it, as well, as does this one in Arapahoe.

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