Falls General Store
Northfield Falls, Vermont
Falls General is located in the Cross Block built in 1892 by Albert S. Cross. The building was continuously operated as a general store until it’s closing in April 2010. The store was then purchased by Vince and Norma Rooney who were determined to restore the building to its original design and provide a much-needed service to the community.
Here’s a little history… Northfield Falls General Store, formerly Neun’s IGA was originally a country store which sold and delivered grain and purchased groceries in bulk from wholesalers. Butter, lard, peanut butter and pickles came in large tubs; sugar, flour, molasses, vinegar, crackers, in barrels; tea in 80 pound chests, coffee in 100 pound bags. All such produce had to be measured out and weighed as it was sold.
Because of its age, the structure required many improvements some of which were the wiring, lighting, plumbing, exterior and interior finishes. The windows, which had long since been covered over, were all restored to their original sizes and locations. The exterior walls were reinsulated to provide an energy efficient and comfortable environment.
A new state of the art kitchen and bakery were installed. The shelves were stocked with local, organic, and healthy food products with an extensive selection from local breweries and fine wine. It is now a thriving business and landmark in Northfield.
“It was more than a pleasure working with Roy Ward and his associates at EHDanson during the design phase of the Falls General Store and Falls River Yoga which is located upstairs from the store. It felt more like a partnership which quickly developed into a friendship. Roy and his team truly listened to what we were trying to accomplish in these two spaces and created a space that was not only functional and beautiful, but also exactly what we had envisioned when we acquired the property. Roy was always available and accommodating of any design changes or concerns. He worked closely with our contractor, engineers, plumbers and electrical team ensuring that everything on his designs were implemented correctly. Our contractor and engineers loved working with him. We highly recommend EHDanson on your design team. They know what they’re doing and they get it done right!”
— NORMA & VINCE ROONEY