The Recent Story of The Store and the new Store at Five Corners Stewardship Association

The historic Store at Five Corners had been known as one of the longest continuously operating businesses in the United States – dating back over 200 years – until a prior owner closed its doors during the summer of 2020.

Without the community’s stepping up to purchase this historic property and protect the Store, this beloved local gathering spot could have been neglected or even torn down entirely.

In late 2021, several local residents came together and created a new non-profit organization: The Store at Five Corners Stewardship Association, committed to purchasing, preserving, and reviving The Store at Five Corners.

Upon completing the first phase of an extensive fundraising effort, the Stewardship Association purchased the Store on January 27, 2022 at a price of $400,000. The Association then set to work on several high-priority projects, such as pouring a concrete floor in the basement, installing a new handicapped access ramp and door openers, adding fire and security alarm systems, repairing the roof, preserving the wood floors, and making energy-saving improvements to the building’s infrastructure.

The Stewardship Association also conducted a search for a qualified operator to lease the property and to operate the Store’s market and cafe as their own independent business. Experienced chef Corey Wentworth has taken this helm, and as of August 16, 2022, Corey has reopened the Store for business!

Under Corey’s able leadership and vision, the Store has once again become a vibrant gathering place – offering breakfast, pastries, coffee, sandwiches, salads, grab-and-go meals, and groceries in a warm, historic setting with a lovely glass-enclosed seating area. The Store is open Tuesday through Sunday every week. The Store is also becoming a venue for small concerts and a showcase for local artists. You can find out more about the Store’s operations and menu on their website at https://storeatfivecorners.com/

The Stewardship Association has a dedicated Board of Directors, all from the local community, who will continue working to enhance the Store and to leave a legacy for future generations to enjoy. The Association will also provide updates on its progress with Store improvements and its need for further resources to complete ongoing projects.

Thanks for visiting our website. While you’re here you can learn more about the Stewardship Association, contact us or join our mailing list for updates or make a donation.

We hope you’ll agree with one of our community members, that “this local grass-roots effort is truly inspiring!”

The Board of Directors of the Stewardship Association is deeply grateful for the community’s generous support – and is very excited about the Store’s promising future!