Our History

The General Store evolved from a shared dream among friends.  Tired of the big store shopping experience of no warmth or personal contact, we vowed to create an atmosphere of good old-fashioned shopping fun.  We live in the Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia area and put our thoughts together to bring you The General Store.  Besides carrying household goods and necessities, we wish to involve our community by providing a place for them to display their unique creations.  We also provide classes for others to share their craft knowledge.  Quilt classes are a great way to visit and share good times with friends.  You will love our 100% quilting cotton fabric and Batiks, Batiks, Batiks!

We officially opened May 9, 2003.  We welcome our customers as friends into our home, excitedly sharing wares we believe will make for a more rewarding existence.  We wish to pamper your senses by filling our store with wholesome items to ensure enjoyment for all ages.  In short, a place to gather, to share, and to preserve family and friendship - a simpler spirit of support and warmth.

Meet the owners of The General Store:

Vicki - Our main source for our dream becoming reality, securing us a building, making sure our lights stay on and keeping the business side of the business functioning.  In order to balance the serious side of our business, Vicki enjoys buying our quilt fabric and scheduling quilt classes.  The whole basement of The General Store is now home to the Quilt Shack. 

Rita - Our acorn (nut for short) who continuously stocks and changes wares around, who then needs help of others to find where she put the wares.  Rita enjoys buying the buying trips to Atlanta and Chicago, always looking for unique gifts with a purpose. Rita is responsible for the many wonderful books that can be found Down at The General Store.