This past New Years Eve, the Godahl Store closed its doors for good. After 122 years in business, the store was considered the oldest community coop store still operating in Minnesota, the third oldest in the United States.
Built in 1894, it was officially known as the Nelson and Albin Cooperative and Mercantile Association. The store is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The store straddles Brown and Watanwon Counties, just north of St. James near the intersection of #4 and #6.
According to recent news reports the store has struggled for years. About 35 years ago suppliers stopped making delivery stops as it wasn't profitable. Many events, some annual, were hosted to keep the store open over the years but sadly, the decision was made to close the store doors this past December.
The store was always a community center and it is hoped the building can live on as a community center in the days forward. You can learn more at https://www.facebook.com/FriendsOfTheGodahlStore
Rhonda . . . I really enjoyed your post about the Godahl Store. If "walls could talk," you and I would listen intently! Just imagine all of the business transactions, crop reports/prices, community "wellness reports," weather reports and idle gossip we would hear!!!
ReplyDeleteI know, just think of all the conversations over the coffee pot and pot bellied stove
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