By Angelica Toumbas
HAMDEN- Whether you need groceries, or something to eat for lunch, the Hamden General Store is a great place to find what you’re looking for! Located at 35796 St Hwy 10, is a beautiful establishment that Amy Crawford and her husband, Andrew Barber created.
Where it Began
The building was operated originally as Sewards Hardware and Plumbing in the late 1800s. Years ago, when Amy was a child, the Hamden General Store was run by previous owners, Paul and Pauline Murray, who opened the general store in 1969. Back then, the store was humbling, sold goods, and even had indoor archery. Since Amy’s grandparents operated a big farm in town, it gave her family long lasting roots in Hamden, and many memories of the town and the general store.
Years later, once COVID-19 hit, Amy, Andrew and their children found themselves leaving NYC to head to their off-grid family property in Hamden. Due to not knowing how long things would take to return to normal, they decided to rent the old general store to have a more sufficient place to stay for the duration of the pandemic. After some time, the day came when the couple was faced with the decision to buy the store, because someone else wanted to make an offer. Coincidentally enough, on that very same day, Amy found her grandfather’s tab in the original store cash register.
With Amy’s grandfather and family history in mind, it felt like the right decision, and so the store became theirs in November of 2020. Due to there being no farmers market in Hamden during the wintertime, Amy was asked by locals to do a pop up at the store. She agreed, and during December they hosted an event that welcomed a variety of different local vendors that came to use the location to sell their goods. It was such a hit that they decided to take the leap and re-open the store to the public, giving the Hamden General Store a fresh new start. Now, almost 5 years since their opening, the store has become a staple of the town, carrying on some traditions of the past. With the help of great staff, such as Chloe Kailani and Audrey Capelo, customers can take ease that the store is always running smoothly when Amy and Andrew are back in the city.
The Experience
As you walk up the steps to the Hamden General Store, visitors can’t help but to feel the laid back, comfortable atmosphere. Upon opening the door and stepping in, visitors enter the main room where they see long counters and shelves. showcasing many goods.
Much of the store is filled with local goods and is also stocked high with an assortment of pantry items. Some local items visitors can expect to see in the store include vegetables, bread, beer, cheeses, meats, milk, coffee, honey, and eggs. With over 70 local vendors, customers are guaranteed to be satisfied with a variety of options.
Aside from food items, there are also numerous locally made items to choose from, such as scarves, makeup, soaps or candles. Products are reasonably priced and never lack quality.
Different From the Rest
What sets this store apart from others is that it embodies community. It’s a great place for locals, or for those simply passing by. Whether it be while sipping out of a handmade coffee cup the owner made, or sitting down talking to a local neighbor, this place gives off a feeling of welcomeness and belonging, and it can be felt by visitors in humble ways.
Food
If visitors are hungry, they can get a great meal at Tiny’s, located right inside the general store.
Open Thursday-Sunday, from 9:30 AM-2:30 PM, guests can choose from a variety of sandwiches made by Chef Antonio Mora. In addition to sandwiches, on Mondays and Tuesdays a local chef comes and prepares a “Plate of the Day”. Each week food is prepared using locally grown vegetables and locally raised meat. With the option of indoor or outdoor seating, visitors can always find a cozy place to sit, eat and relax.
Store Hours of Operation:
Monday-9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Tuesday-9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Wednesday-9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Thursday-9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Friday-9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Saturday-9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Sunday- 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
For more information: www.hamdengeneral.com, or find them on Facebook at Hamden General Store.
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