Eastern Iowa is Home to One of the Oldest General Stores in America

Love Food put together a list with 30 of "America's Most Historic General Stores," and we're happy to report that one Iowa store made the list! It's called Greef General Store, and it's located in the village of Bentonsport in Southeast Iowa.

"Sitting on the bank of the Des Moines River, in the tiny village of Bentonsport, Greef General Store dates all the way back to the 1840s. Once a bustling general store that provided everyday essentials to local townspeople, it's now a historical landmark, operating as both a museum and an antiques store. Best of all, there's a fudge counter, where you can choose from around 20 delicious flavors."

Greef General Store offers vintage toys, jewelry, collectables, clothing, glassware, and furniture, as well as seasonal and handmade items from Iowa artisans. And yes, there is plenty of fudge available from the Addie May Fudge Shop in the back of the store! Flavors include Lemon Meringue Pie, Peanut Butter, Maple Nut, and more.

According to the Addie May Fudge website, the town of Bentonsport flourished in the 1800s because it was a main port on the Des Moines River. It was home to three mills, a bank, and a general store. The bank and the general store were owned by a German immigrant named Herman Greef. In the 1860s, there was a addition to the store, which included a tunnel from Herman's home to the store’s basement.

Unfortunately, Bentonsport eventually became less popular after the railroad came to town. The website reads:

"Railroad came to Bentonsport in 1855 which caused the paddlewheel to become obsolete. With rail came more modernization and faster shipping. Eventually, rail routes changed, mills went out of business, and the town slowly died down to the current population of 47."

Today, Greef General Store is a National Historic Registered Building that is owned by Van Buren County Conservation. Other historic structures in Bentonsport include the Mason House Inn, Stone House, Bentonsport Historic Bridge, the Vernon School, and Bentonsport Presbyterian Church.

Greef General Store is currently open Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can check out their official Facebook page HERE.