Neighborhood markets and corner variety stores, later known as convenience stores, were commonplace in most RI neighborhoods during the 1960s and 70s when many of us were growing up. While supermarkets like A&P, IGA and Almacs were around, the townie corner store was where parents sent their kids by foot or by bike to get daily essentials like bread, milk and other general items until the next big grocery trip to the supermarket.
As for us kids, the neighborhood store was where we bought our necessities like candy, gum, trading cards and comics. An errand to the corner store usually resulted in enough loose change to pick up some penny candy like Pixy Sticks, Flying Saucer Wafers or a Candy Necklace for that someone special!
The corner store often served as a local hang out for the neighborhood kids. Some offered a pinball machine and/or a soda fountain. For many, it is where we had our first jobs stocking shelves and delivering local groceries.
By the 80s, many of the neighborhood stores slowly became a thing of the past with the popularity of large convenience stores with late night hours and supermarkets now open seven days a week.
There’s no doubt many of you had your own favorite neighborhood store growing up. Do share by telling us of your neighborhood store memories and favorite vintage candy by posting to our Facebook page or the comments section below.
