Remember the good ole days — before the sprawling shopping malls, strip malls, and big-box stores — when you could find a general store in every small town? Today, we can still find some charming general stores that have survived the passage of time. For a stroll down Memory Lane or to discover the charm of an old-fashioned general store for the first time, visit this historic general store in Missouri.

We’ll have to use our imagination to picture First Dawn General Store, in Lesterville, in its earliest days, which began in 1882.

Historic Lesterville When the historic general store first opened, it was known as The Dobbins, Carter & Company General Store. In those early years, the general store earned distinction as the first building in town to have electricity.

Today, with its old-school charm, First Dawn General Store is a regular stop for locals and is often sought out by visitors.

Facebook/First Dawn General Store

Meander around the old-fashioned store, where you’ll find everything from classic candy and antiques to gifts.

Facebook/First Dawn General Store

Browse the selection of Amish goods, too, including handmade quilts and preserves.

Facebook/First Dawn General Store

Before you leave, dig into a delicious ice cream sundae or a root beer float. If you’re really hungry, have a meal before your ice cream.

Facebook/First Dawn General Store

Tucked in the general store, Lesterville Florist and Gifts sells a generous assortment of fresh flowers and gift baskets.

Facebook/First Dawn General Store

Don’t want your visit to the charming small town to end? You can rent The Dobbins House, a historic home built in 1882, that also happens to sit right next to the historic general store.

Facebook/First Dawn General Store

Address: 514 East Main Street, Lesterville, MO 63654

Facebook/First Dawn General Store Click here for the official website of First Dawn General Store. Or, go here for Facebook.

Do you have a favorite historic general store in Missouri? Join the conversation in the comments! For another stroll down Memory Lane, visit Crane’s Country Store in Williamsburg. Click here to read more.

Historic Lesterville

When the historic general store first opened, it was known as The Dobbins, Carter & Company General Store. In those early years, the general store earned distinction as the first building in town to have electricity.

Facebook/First Dawn General Store

Click here for the official website of First Dawn General Store. Or, go here for Facebook.

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