Withers and Spauldings General Store

The old general store now houses the local chamber of commerce.

NPS Photo / Jack Burton

Quick Facts

Amenities

5 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Internet/WiFi Available, Restroom, Water - Drinking/Potable

In the early 20th century, general stores were an important fixture in small, rural towns such as Johnson City. Not only did they provide "store-bought goods," but they served as social centers and community message centers. Shoppers who entered would be met by long counters, rounded glass showcases, and side walls lined with shelves, drawers, and bins holding all manner of items for sale. Imagine the Johnsons and their neighbors coming to the store to purchase such necessities as flour, tools, lanterns, fabric, or shoes. Lucky children with a little spending money could select penny candies from glass jars. The shop keeper would cut, grind, or weigh merchandise that required it, wrap the purchases with brown paper and string from a roll at the end of the counter, and ring the total up on the cash register. The waiting customers could catch up on the latest local news or peruse the notices posted on the store wall.

W.E. "Bud" Withers and Warren and E.D. Spauldings operated the general store in Johnson City as a partnership from April 1909 until December 1915 when Withers bought out the Spauldings. He continued to run the business as W.E. Withers until 1925, first in the original frame building and then in the stone building which currently houses the Johnson City Bank.

The historic Withers & Spauldings General Store now serves as an exhibit area and information center for Johnson City. Visitors can learn about Johnson City shopping and dining options as well as additional attractions in the surrounding Hill Country community.

Staffed by Johnson City Chamber of Commerce members, the property is part of Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park and is managed by the National Park Service.