Historic general stores still dot the landscape in the most rural of areas in the Palmetto State and each one offers a nostalgic look into the past worth seeking out. Over in Pumpkintown, located in Pickens County approximately ten miles northeast of Pickens, the Pumpkintown General Store and Café has provided this tiny community with a place to land for food and other essential items for upwards of 80 years. And from the looks of things, it’ll be going strong for at least another eight decades. Here’s what you need to know when paying a visit to this time-honored business in the Upstate.

Pumpkintown General Store is found in the crossroads of SC-8 (Pumpkintown Highway) and SC-288 (Table Rock Road). When you drop by, you'll feel like you've discovered a true South Carolina treasure.
Google Maps
As its road name suggests, the store sits only a short drive from Table Rock State Park and the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Byway (SC-11). There's so much to love about this beautiful region of our state.
Pumpkintown was settled, according to one source, sometime before 1791, and was expeditiously called given its moniker because there were so many orange pumpkins growing in the immediate area. However, Pumpkintown has never been incorporated, so it's never technically been registered as a town in South Carolina.
Google Local/Dane Acena
But that didn't stop one family, the Burgesses, from opening a general store on site back in 1938.
Google Local/Breana Leigh
Selling the essentials in demand by the folks living nearest by, the store prospered and was originally called Pumpkintown Grocery Burgess & Son. A porcelain Coca-Cola sign was mounted at the very top of the roof line, and Esso pumps graced the front for those with automobiles in need of refueling. Even in its earliest days, Pumpkintown General Store was the place to be for locals and travelers passing through the area.
Until very recently, Pumpkintown General Store and Café still functioned primarily as a store with home goods, groceries, and candy. The business also featured a small seating area dedicated to home-cooked food, so guests could settle in for a great meal.
Google Local/Travis Lyde
But over time, all things must change -- even the most iconic of community hot spots.

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There's been a bit of remodeling in recent years. Most guests are in agreement that they love the changes at Pumpkintown General Store and Café, where the main focus now is on serving high quality food with outstanding service. You'll feel like family as soon as you set foot inside this unique and nostalgic establishment.
Google Local/Conrad Geiger
In fact, the place changed hands and was sold to a long-time customer and local who, among other things, established more seating and opened the building up a bit. Despite the changes, the shop and eatery's original charm is still palpable.
The cafe is open for breakfast and lunch six days per week. The menu is loaded with traditional favorites, including mouthwatering burgers that are creating quite a stir among diners.
Google Local/Alexis Ray
Whether it's been decades since you last paid a visit to Pumpkintown General Store and Café or you've yet to make it over to Pumpkintown at all, add this one to your list of foodie road trips. When you stop in at one of the most iconic spots in Pickens County, you'll find endless charm and a burger you won't soon forget.
Google Local/R. Glenn Geiger
No matter the reason or the season, there's always something to adore at Pumpkintown General Store.
Google Reviews/Jessica Mercer

For more information, check out the Pumpkintown General Store Facebook page. Have you stopped in the remodeled Pumpkintown General Store and Café yet? We’d love to hear about your dining experience as much as we’d also love to hear your favorite memories of the store. Share your thoughts with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another historic general store in South Carolina by completing our official nomination form.

If you love stepping into the past for a trip down memory lane, then check out the oldest general store in South Carolina. Lenior Store has been open since soon after the Revolutionary War, so history buffs will be absolutely enchanted.

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Historic Sites In South Carolina

Sophie Boudreau | August 23, 2022

Are there any other long-standing restaurants in South Carolina?

Pumpkintown General Store and its accompanying cafe certainly fit the bill when it comes to historic eateries. If you're a sucker for both history and great food, you'll want to read about some of the oldest restaurants in South Carolina. Don't let the age of these spots fool you or keep you from dropping by -- whether you're checking out Lee's Inlet Kitchen or dining at Villa Tronco in Columbia, you'll find it easy to understand why these places have stood the test of time.

What are some of the most famous historic sites in South Carolina?

If you'd prefer to explore more well-known historic spots instead of seeking out hidden gems, we've got you covered. Many of the top historical landmarks in South Carolina will leave you feeling absolutely enchanted, whether you're a local or an out-of-state explorer who wants to learn more about the state. From bridges to restaurants to lighthouses and cemeteries, there's something in South Carolina to delight every sort of history fanatic. Hop in the car and start checking out these amazing destinations.

Are there other worthwhile general stores in South Carolina?

A general store doesn't have to boast a storied past to be worth checking out. Even the newest shops can be completely loaded with charm, though there's certainly something special about a time-tested establishment. Luckily for you, we've put together a list of 15 amazing general stores in South Carolina that should be visited -- and the variety is impressive. From candy to trinkets to great BBQ, these stores hold a little bit of everything.

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Featured Addresses
3837 Pumpkintown Hwy, Pickens, SC 29671, USA