The old building at the corner of Thomas Mill and Hester Store Road in Dacusville, will soon have a second life, with homage paid to its historic roots.
The historic Hester Store has been purchased with plans to turn the site into a bakery, coffee shop and general store, with a major renovation to return the building to its former glory as a community hub.
“Old general stores that tell the history of the past are fascinating to me,” said Katie Chaney, the new owner of Hester General Store, “so finding a location like the Hester Store was a dream come true.”
Renovations are set to begin this winter
Chaney plans to salvage or repurpose as much of the original materials as possible.
Originally built in 1893 by Michael Washington Hester, the two-story building is notable for its gable front. It’s on the National Register of Historic Sites as “an important example of a country store and mercantile business in the South Carolina Piedmont.”
“For many years, the store served not only as a place of business, but also as a central meeting place within the Dacusville community,” the listing added.
Fresh pastries, pies, cakes, breads …
The bakery, of which Chaney will serve as executive chef, will be completely rebuilt and will occupy the upstairs floor of the building, while the original shelving, tongue-and-groove floors, walls and headboard throughout the building will be preserved. Chaney will offer a menu of fresh pastries, pies, cakes and breads, along with Italian sodas and freshly-brewed coffee, while the general store down on the first floor will stock sundries, general wares and regional and local produce.
A key aspect of the stores offerings will be grab-and-go sandwiches and picnic fare to cater to those traveling to or from outdoor recreational areas like the nearby Table Rock.
“Hester General Store will be an ideal destination for the person that wants to put together a picnic basket with local fares for a day hike and for folks looking to buy a unique gift,” Chaney said. “We’ll also offer candies for the local kids, lunch sandwiches for area workers and boiled peanuts for the weary road traveler.”
For more information, visit hestergeneralstore.com.
