General Mercantile Store facts for kids
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General Mercantile Store
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Formerly listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places
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The building in 2011
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 Location in Texas
Location in the United States
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| Location | 7322 N. Main Street Houston, Texas |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1920 |
| MPS | Independence Heights MPS |
| NRHP reference No. | 97000545 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | June 4, 1997 |
| Removed from NRHP | August 18, 2014 |
The General Mercantile Store was an important building in Houston, Texas. It was built way back in 1920. For a while, it was even listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This special list helps protect important historical buildings in the United States.
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What Was a General Mercantile Store?
Imagine a time before big supermarkets and shopping malls. People needed a place to buy almost everything! That's where a general mercantile store came in. It was like an old-fashioned department store, but often smaller.
These stores sold a huge variety of goods. You could find food, tools, clothes, and even medicine all in one place. They were often the heart of a community. People didn't just shop there; they also met friends and shared news.
Life in a Mercantile Store
In the early 1900s, these stores were very busy. Farmers would bring their crops to trade for supplies. Families would come to buy their weekly groceries. The store owner knew everyone in town.
The General Mercantile Store in Houston likely served its local neighborhood in this way. It was a place where people could get what they needed. It also helped build a strong community spirit.
Why Are Old Buildings Important?
The General Mercantile Store was added to the National Register of Historic Places on June 4, 1997. This meant it was recognized for its special history. Buildings like this help us understand what life was like in the past.
They show us how people lived, worked, and shopped. Preserving old buildings helps us remember our history. It also teaches us about the changes that have happened over time.
What Happened to the Store?
Sadly, the General Mercantile Store was removed from the National Register in August 2014. This can happen for different reasons. Sometimes a building changes too much. Other times, it might be torn down.
Even though it's no longer on the list, its history remains. It reminds us of a time when local stores were central to daily life. It also shows the importance of places like Houston's historic neighborhoods.
