Long Island's Hidden Past: St. James General Store

<p>At the St. James General Store, a farmer's wife could purchase just about anything, including shoes, pots and pans, soap and a bathing suit.</p>

News 12 Staff

Mar 13, 2017, 3:33 PM

Updated 2,771 days ago

Share:

Long Island's Hidden Past: St. James General Store
The St. James General Store was built in 1858 by Ebenezer Smith. The store was the hub of the community and it's virtually unchanged since the 1900s.
Smith, a descendent of Richard "Bull" Smith, had just returned from the California Gold Rush when he set up the shop with his newfound wealth. 
There, a farmer's wife could purchase just about anything, including shoes, pots and pans, soap and a bathing suit.
Because the general store also served as a post office and had the only telephone in town, it was the perfect place for residents to catch up on local gossip and world news.
Celebrations, parties and dances were also held in the large room upstairs.
What many may not know is that there are times when the floors creak and books are found scattered on the floor. A lot of employees throughout the years have reported feeling "cold spots" in the store.
Some say the spirit of Smith still walks the shop's stairs. It's believed Ebenezer Smith is just making sure his beloved store is still a place where everyone wants to be.