The iconic Rosseau General Store is celebrating a major milestone this weekend.
Known for its delectable foods and cottage essentials, Rosseau General Store, which opened in 1874, is a regular stop for anyone passing through the area. It’s also a Cottage Life favourite. Readers voted the landmark “best general store in cottage country” in our “Best of Cottage Country” issue of the magazine this year.
“The owners are so lovely and community-minded,” wrote Katja Uhde.
“The staff are the best!” said Deborah Doyle-Naperstkow.
The general store is celebrating its 150th year of continuous operation on August 10th—a date that the owners and the local historical society believe to be close to the original opening.
“It’s kind of unfathomable,” says Laurie McDonald, who co-owns the store alongside her husband, Brian Dollin. “You stand in the middle of the store and look around and think, This place has been here for 150 years. You feel that energy in here when you talk to people who have been coming into this store for 80 years.”
Laurie and Brian didn’t set out to buy the beloved shop. The couple—who had retired from their corporate jobs and were looking for a new adventure—were in the area pursuing another potential business venture when they stumbled upon the general store. “We fell in love with it, but it wasn’t for sale at the time,” says Laurie.
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They eventually bought it in 2017 and have spent the last eight years restoring around 70 per cent of the building. While the renovations were much-needed, the owners are dedicated to respecting the heritage and architectural details of the store.
“We’re bringing it into the 21st century without changing the atmosphere or the things that people love about the store,” says Laurie.
Laurie says that she and Brian feel responsible for not only the store now, but for preserving its heritage and continuing the legacy of all the owners who came before them. Most of all, they’re committed to every customer.
“It’s about what it means to people,” says Laurie, adding that the customers feel a sense of ownership towards the store, as it holds a lot of memories for them.
Join the celebration at the Rosseau General Store on Saturday, August 10th. At 11:30 a.m., Laurie, Brian, and local dignitaries will unveil a plaque that details the store’s history and the order of ownership. From noon to 2 p.m., enjoy a free barbecue, games for kids, and live music.
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