# A Step Back in Time: The 150-Year History of Chapman’s General
Since 1875, Chapman’s General has been the heart of Fairlee, Vermont. As one of the oldest general stores in the United States, our story is woven into the fabric of this small town—and today, we’re proud to share that story with you.
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## 1875: A Humble Beginning in Horse-and-Buggy Days
When Chapman’s General first opened its doors, Fairlee was a growing village along a busy stagecoach and railroad corridor. The store offered locals everything from dry goods and hardware to mail services and conversation.
Back then, receipts were handwritten, and barter was common. Chapman’s quickly became more than a store—it was a lifeline for the community.
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## Four Generations of Chapman Family Ownership
For over 150 years, Chapman’s has remained in the same family. Through floods, wars, the Great Depression, and two pandemics, each generation has stewarded the store with care, preserving its legacy while evolving with the times.
From hand-pumped kerosene to hand-picked wine, our commitment to quality and community has never wavered.
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## A Living Museum of Vermont’s Past
Today, stepping into Chapman’s is like stepping into a time capsule. Original wooden floors creak underfoot, old fixtures line the walls, and the warm, friendly feel of the past still lingers.
But don’t let the charm fool you—we’ve also embraced the best of today:
* Artisan and local gourmet foods
* Vermont craft beer and regional wines
* A curated collection of gifts, games, and toys
* Fresh grab-and-go meals made in-house
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## Recent Revitalization Projects
In honor of our 150th anniversary, we’ve invested in major upgrades—many of them focused on community access and sustainability:
* A new Provisions section with healthy, local food
* A fully equipped commercial kitchen for freshly made meals
* ADA accessibility, energy efficiency, and fire safety upgrades
* A welcoming community patio
* Renovation of an abandoned gas station into an open community space
These updates honor the past while creating a more inclusive and vibrant future for Fairlee.
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## Visit Chapman’s: More Than Just a Store
If you’re visiting the Upper Valley or spending time on Lake Fairlee or Lake Morey, make Chapman’s General part of your trip. Grab a picnic lunch, stock up on Vermont treats, or just enjoy a coffee on the patio.
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## Share Your Chapman’s Story
As part of our anniversary celebration, we’re collecting memories from past and present visitors. Did you stop by on a road trip? Come every summer as a kid? We’d love to hear from you.
**Email your stories or photos to**: \travisnoyes@gmail.com
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**Thank you for being part of our story.** Here’s to another 150 years!
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