Country Store fills classic Main Street storefront

“I started placing re-orders after our fourth day open,” Mink said.

On opening day, they planned to unlock the doors at noon, but people were already lining up by 9 a.m. “We didn’t kick them out,” Mink said.

The store carries linens, bedding, bath accessories, rugs and small furniture, as well as gifts for people of all ages.

“You can find something for your friend who has a new baby or your 95-year-old grandfather in here,” Mink said. “There’s something for everybody. It’s bright, fun and cheery.”

The store occupies the space at 109 Main St. where Ann and Frank Lackey’s general store held court from 1948 until 2014 — 66 years. The storefront has been vacant for several years, and reopening a prime retail space on Main Street is a significant development in the village.

The Lackeys gave the Minks their blessing, Cristina says, with a handwritten note they dropped off when the store opened.

“The old storekeepers, Ann and Frank, spent 50 years behind these counters and when they left, they and this building were very tired,” the note read. “With its ‘new look’ and young enthusiasm, Cristina and Graham will be an instant success.”

Mink kept the spirit of Lackey’s General Store intact — one of the old storefront windows has been turned into a giant mirror, which Mink has placed behind the checkout counter.

Mink said she was touched by the Lackeys’ note and by the outpouring of support from the community, including bouquets of congratulatory flowers.

“People keep bringing them,” Mink said, gesturing to a few bouquets behind her, including orchids and roses. There were more last week, she said.

“It’s really cool to see all the locals come in and go, ‘Wow!’” Mink said. “Mr. Lackey came in here on Saturday and said he gives his 100 percent approval.”