We have had the pleasure to serve and visit with guests from all over the world. We have a map where guests have pinned where they are from and it is wild to see where they travel from! It is so encouraging and humbling to know that people are willing to visit us in rural Bluffton, population 103.
In 2018, after being hit hard by hurricane Michael, we had no service, internet, or power for over one week. We opened the store with flashlights, propane cookers, and a pen-and-paper legend and sure enough, it became the central location for hot meals, gathering and safety check-ins. I am grateful that this space can also serve us in so many ways. When we had 8 inches of snow in 2024, we were able to open up and offer some warm chilli to those that were traveling.
It would not be fitting if I did not speak about my dear friend and local celebrity, Ken Penuel, who is the one who truly brought this old store back to life. He had a hand in every detail that makes it so charming. Mr. Ken was one of the most selfless and kindest people to ever walk on this planet. His drive and vision to revive our beloved store will never be forgotten.
The General Store is the heartbeat of our farm. It is where guests check in and employees check out. Some places are more than just a building or a business. They are a gathering place, a connection to the past, and a reminder of what makes a community special. Here at White Oak Pastures, the General Store represents all of those things and more. As we celebrate its 10-year anniversary, we are excited to welcome our community and celebrate another chapter in its story.
