Queen Victoria COULD Have Eaten Here….

Welcome to Virginia!

This is where I grew up.

And this is where I come back when it’s time to visit family.

This week, I’m showing you a part of the past most visitors don’t see – the general store.

Laurel Mills Store

This store opened in 1877.

In Europe in 1877, Queen Victoria was on the throne in Britain; Otto von Bismarck was busy creating the German empire; and Russia had just declared war against the Ottoman Empire.

And it’s still open!

I was there yesterday for lunch.

I got a roast beef sandwich and a root beer.

I  sat on the porch to eat it.

Maybe one car drove by during that time.

I’m worried about how much longer it will stay open in these days of easy delivery.

The Old Days

The reason this store is here is because of the river.

In this picture you can see the bridge off to the right.

The river gave power to a mill. (behind the trees you can still find the stone foundation)

The mill allowed local farmers to turn their corn and wheat into flour.

With the flour, they could eat it or sell it.

And around this mill, a small village with one store grew.

Some of the world’s greatest cities began like this: just one building next to a river in the forest.

Next Week: There’s still more to see in Virginia. But we’ll take a small break because tomorrow I’m traveling. On Monday, I’ll be in a big city. It’s the complete opposite of quiet, green Virginia.

Have a great weekend,
Mr. Vig