We first learned about the oldest store in South Carolina when we were driving by and happened across a sign for it. We just had to check it out. Unfortunately for us, it was a Sunday and closed but my interest was peaked and I wanted to learn more about it.

Here’s what I learned

The Lenoir Store, Horatio, South Carolina, stands on the same site where the Lenoir family has operated a general store since before 1808. It is considered the oldest business establishment in Sumter County. It still opens Mon-Sat, selling general store things such as bottled sodas, bread, fruit, chips and old fashioned candy. Since 1900 it has also served as the post office for Horatio. As July 3, 1997, when it was added to the National Register of Historic Places, it was still being operated by members of the Lenoir family.

Although we weren’t able to go inside we did stop to check out the outside of the store which has some comfortable looking chairs and old timey soda coolers and gas pumps. Across the road is the Hanson House, Horatio’s Community Center, where someone has placed a couple of well loved stuffed animals in rocking chairs, there to welcome anyone that stops by.