The Stewardship Era – 2021–present
Community Ownership by The Store at Five Corners Stewardship Association, Inc. (SAFCSA)
Dating back to the 1770s, the Store had been one of the longest continually operating businesses in the United States – serving as a tavern, stagecoach stop, inn, meeting house, post office, general store and café – until a prior owner closed the doors in the summer of 2020 due to economic challenges related to the Covid pandemic.
The Store then lay dormant for nearly two years, falling into disrepair, and faced potential demolition. The property was available for sale as part of a larger set of parcels including a neighboring farm and extensive pastures.
In October 2021, a local community group, the South Williamstown Community Association, conducted a survey of its membership to gauge interest in having the Store purchased by local residents in order to protect and revitalize this community asset. Of the [xxx] surveys distributed, 134 responses were received within just a few days, showing passionate and overwhelming support for moving forward with an effort to purchase the property and reopen the Store for the benefit of the community.
[PHOTOS NEEDED: screenshots of survey results — link to full survey results]
Based on this outpouring of support, in November 2021 a small group of residents formed a new 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization called The Store at Five Corners Stewardship Association, Inc. (SAFCSA) to purchase, preserve, and revitalize this historic gathering place for future generations to enjoy. SAFCSA's board of directors consists of local residents who reflect the larger community's passion and commitment.
In January 2022, with generous support from over 300 residents and a grant from the Town of Williamstown Community Preservation Act Fund, the Stewardship Association purchased the Store for $400,000 and began extensive renovations in preparation for leasing the building to a Store operator.
The Stewardship Association's major projects have included replacement of a two-story column supporting the front façade, adding a mobility access ramp, restoration of antique wood floors, replacement of windows, exterior painting, installing mini-splits for heating/cooling efficiency, and installing a UV light system to preserve the Store's pristine spring water.
[PHOTO NEEDED: yellow banner]
[PHOTOS NEEDED: column replacement and other renovation work]
For more information about the Stewardship Association's extensive work over the last four years to restore and enhance the building, see Saving the Store.
In 2022, SAFCSA leased the Store to chef Corey Wentworth who reopened it as a general store, cafe, and community gathering place.
[PHOTO NEEDED: green "NOW OPEN" banner]
In 2024, the Stewardship Association mounted an ongoing exhibit of 25 enlarged historic photos and maps on the Store's glass-enclosed seating area. The exhibit includes images dating back to the 1800s showing the evolution of the Store and the entire village that once existed at this historic crossroads. Since 1993, the Five Corners Historic District has been recognized on the National Register of Historic Places for its historic significance.
This exhibit has become a permanent feature of the Store, bringing to life the long and colorful history of the neighborhood. Supplementing the exhibit are notebooks filled with historic postcards, clippings, handwritten letters dated 1869–71 from a boy named Willie, and an 1898 brochure from the Idlewild Hotel that once stood on the rise of land across the road. While enjoying refreshments, visitors can easily envision how this neighborhood once looked, surrounded by historic buildings.
For more information about the Historic Photo Exhibit, see A Living Museum.
As of Spring 2026, siblings Colleen and Sean Taylor are leasing the Store and bringing new life to the historic gathering place, combining their deep roots in hospitality with a love for community. Open 7 days a week, 7am–7pm, the Store offers coffee, tea, espresso, fresh pastries, breakfast, lunch, and grab-and-go dinners, along with a curated selection of local goods.
With its charming setting, including a glass enclosed porch and inviting seating, the Store is once again a welcoming hub for locals and visitors alike – hosting small gatherings, workshops, and meaningful community connections. For more information about the Store, go to storeatfivecorners.com.
[PHOTOS NEEDED: big table and enclosed porch seating area]