Historically, general stores have been a vital part of small-town and rural life, providing provisions and other goods to residents of the area. Today, these historic stores provide a sense of nostalgia and give a peek into what life was like in smaller communities so long ago. Illinois has numerous general stores around the state but for now, we will take a step back in time at Mansfield General Store which has been around for well over a century.
The Mansfield General Store occupies what was known as the Manley Building which was constructed in 1895. By 1896, it opened as a general store known as The Enterprise which sold a variety of apparel and gourmet grocery items.
Mansfield General Store/Facebook Fifteen years later, in 1911, the store changed ownership and was renamed Cash Supply Store. Refrigerated items and self-serve beverages were added during this owner’s tenure. After his death, the store changed hands a third time and was renamed McKee’s Cash Supply.
By 1979, the fourth owners of the store took over and renamed it again, this time to Mansfield General Store, which it remains today. Over the years, owners Terry and Susan Thomas added a snack shop known as Shivers and Jitters. Today, it still has that historic feel while incorporating a little bit of modernity.
WREN Bradley/Google Local
Inside Mansfield General Store, you’ll find a wide variety of items like gifts, old-fashioned candy, collectibles, greeting cards, resale items, and so much more!
Mansfield General Store/Google
You’ll probably find something to buy - or at least stop by the Shivers and Jitters snack bar for something delicious from the menu.
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
Just pull up a stool at the old-fashioned counter at the general store’s cafe where you can order a sandwich, a hot dog (perhaps a Chicago dog), some chili, or a quesadilla, among several other items. Just save some room for ice cream afterward!
Mansfield General Store/Google
Stroll around the store and have a look at the vintage collector tins. (Yes, they are for sale!)
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
And don’t forget to peruse the selection of old-fashioned and nostalgic candies where you’ll probably find your favorite candy from childhood.
Th’a Diq/Google
Mansfield General Store/Facebook
Fifteen years later, in 1911, the store changed ownership and was renamed Cash Supply Store. Refrigerated items and self-serve beverages were added during this owner’s tenure. After his death, the store changed hands a third time and was renamed McKee’s Cash Supply.
WREN Bradley/Google Local
Mansfield General Store/Google
Mansfield General Store/Google
Th’a Diq/Google
Have you visited this old-fashioned general store in Illinois? Let us know all about your visit in the comments! For more information on the Mansfield General Store, visit the Facebook page.
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Address: 107 N Jefferson St, Mansfield, IL 61854, USA
