This building was built in 1858 and was located in the town of Lee, about 5 miles west of Erie Canal Village on Route 69. It was used as a general store and post office by H.M. Farmer before being moved here in 1979.
The buildings hardwood floors and wainscoting are original.
Canal stores sold to two different groups of people, farmers living in the area and to people living and working on the boats that traveled the canal. The local farmers, who often only had money after the harvest , would be extended credit. Cannallers, who might not be back to a store for a long time, had to pay in cash.
Stores stocked all of the goods that a canal family would need on their boat while traveling the canal. They offered a wider variety of goods than many country stores, including horse goods, kerosene, clothing, and toys. The canal water was unsuitable to drink, so they also supplied spring water to the boat families.
The store was also a social gathering place for local residents. The owner’s family would work in the store.
Canal stores were crowded. All of the stock would be on display on the shelve, counters, barrels, and on the porch. Much of the goods were sold in bulk, with the purchasers bringing their own containers to carry the items home or to the boat. Brown paper was often used to wrap purchases and then reused for writing paper.
Coffee grinder. Enterprise. Dated 1898. Has 1876 Philadelphia Exposition seal.
