If you ever find yourself down on Cape Cod, a stop at the 1856 Country Store is simply a must.
Located on Main St. in the village of Centerville, this old fashioned and family owned general store holds a special place in my heart.
In fact it is one of my favorite childhood memories.
Originally built in 1840 it was used to store local cranberries after they had been harvested.
In 1842 it was turned into a shoe store before finally becoming a general store in the year for which it is named.
Despite the store’s long and unique history, I’ve only ever known it as simply the “candy store.”
As a kid, my grandparents owned a small cottage in Hyannis, one of the towns that neighbors Centerville.
Each summer my parents would load us all up in the car and we’d make the annual pilgrimage down to “the Cape” to spend time with family.
While there, my Nana and Papa would round up all of the grandkids and take us to the “candy store”.
Given a two dollar spending allowance, I can remember perusing the rows of penny candy.
Trying to decide how to spend my small fortune.
Afterwards we’d go outside to the front porch, where we’d sit on the store’s famous “Democrats” and “Republicans” benches to enjoy our spoils.
It is a very fond memory of mine and one I will cherish forever.
About the Store
Upon entering, the front hosts displays of various local wares and artisan goods from around the Cape and New England.
Candles, jams, jellies, soaps, and toys are just a few of the many treasures you can expect to find here.
Keep walking through and after passing the checkout counter, on the wall ahead you’ll see an array of antique mail boxes and an old Post Office teller’s window.
Details that are personal favorites of mine, left behind from another era.
In the back of the store there are old fashioned toys, souvenirs, cold drinks and of course penny candy for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
It is no wonder that visitors and locals alike come from near and far to enjoy the charm of this special place.
To this day, if I find myself down on the Cape and someone asks: “Hey, do you want to stop at the candy store?”
You can bet my answer is always most definitely, “Yes!”
1856 Country Store
555 Main St, Centerville, MA 02632