Known as “The Pillars” many years ago, people believe that the grand old building that The Village Stores occupies has been many things throughout its time, but as far we know, it has always been a shop. According to the Roman numerals the building The Village Stores was built in 1836 by an apothecary. The shop then became a part of the Midland Co-Op, before being bought into private ownership by Gordon Stone, who had worked in the shop since he was a boy.
To look at, the building has changed very little over the years, but in recent memory there has been extensive work to repair the frontage which was at one time falling away from the building.
This picture was taken in around 1896 and shows the Beef Fair that was held in Hartington once a year in August at the beginning of Wakes week. The butcher pictured in the foreground is said to have come from the Longnor butchers Mellor and Cundy and that the cart on the left belonged to a baker from nearby Winster who came to the village once a week.
The sign above the central arch is the licence for the Volunteer Arms, and ale house located in the rear of the shop in the room that we now use as a kitchen. The licence reads
Volunteer Arms
Mark Greatbach
Licenced to Sell by Bottle
ALE and PORTER
To be Drunk On The Premises
I’m afraid there is no more drinking on the premises, but we are still licensed and ensure a good stock ales and porters for you to take home with you!