Country Store and Pioneer Mill
COUNTRY STORE
As Oregon was settled, country stores emerged as communities were established and grew. The proprietors were individuals who recognized an opportunity to earn a living serving local needs for food and basic provisions fundamental to livelihood and much in demand.
In the beginning, the Country Store merchandise was generally basic. Food stuffs, animal feed, etc. were usually bought in bulk by the sack or barrel. Food items and other supplies not locally available had to be transported by wagon, often from long distances. Protecting merchandise from weather, thieves and dealing with spoilage was always a worry.
In the early stages of settlement and community forming, luxuries were few! Items ordered from the East Coast took months to receive and were the "stuff" of great expectation. The settlers who made Oregon their home were hard-working innovative folk looking for a better life. They were up to the challenges of homesteading!
The Country Store became the place to not only acquire provisions, hardware, clothing, tools and other essentials and supplies, but also a meeting location to visit neighbors, catch up on news and gossip, and generally socialize. A trip downtown on Saturday evening became the highlight of the week well into the 20th Century. For small towns, the country store was the center of it all!
ANTIQUE POWERLAND MUSEUM COUNTRY STORE
Hats and T-Shirts are available at the Country Store or the Welcome Center in the Dezotell Building. Shirts also available with a pocket.
Hot and cold food is available at the Country Store during major events at Powerland Heritage Park.
Your purchases at The Country Store help to fund the activities of the Willamette Valley Model Railroad & Operating Museum and the potential future additional construction of the Visitor Center. The Museum’s goal is to preserve the history of regional railroading by building a replica train station where a miniature railroad is housed that educates future generations about the history of transportation and agriculture in Oregon. Plans for the Visitor Center include an orientation room, warming kitchen and restrooms, and it will serve as a welcoming entrance to Powerland Heritage Park.