Mill District General Store & Local Art Gallery

“We are proud to introduce a new store with a touch of nostalgia that has everything you need.”

– Cinda Jones, owner

The Mill District General Store is nostalgic and modern, full of a whole lot of stuff you’ll want… and stuff you’ll actually need. Located in the up-and-coming Mill District of Amherst, the General Store is the latest in a long line of family businesses dating back to 1741. It sits on a patch of land known for generations as the Cowls Home Farm. For over 275 years, the farm was a site for creativity and regeneration, providing the community with agricultural products, dairy cows, and trolley lines to one of the nation’s first electric sawmills. This store was inspired by the 7th generation owner Walter Cowls Jones, stocking items he would say are “handier than a pocket in a pair of under drawers!”

Every online and in-person visit is truly an experience. When you walk inside to shop or pick up an online order, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and a huge candy-by-the-pound counter. Walking around the store, you’ll see an eclectic array of household items, art supplies, pet supplies, toys and games, beauty products, seasonal clothing, and more! They stock a mix of nostalgic and modern products, and an ever growing collection of beautiful and one of a kind, locally sourced items.

Past the main counter, you’ll find a coffee station where you can pour a cup of locally roasted coffee from Esselon Coffee Roasters in Hadley. Beyond that, the store flows seamlessly into the ever-changing Local Art Gallery, featuring the pottery, paintings, and jewelry of over 20 local artists. The Art Gallery also hosts pop-up classes, events, and conversations led by the artists. The Mill District General Store and Local Art Gallery is THE creative hub of the North Amherst community.

“Sweet and attractive shop with all sorts of goodies. Start by getting a cuppa Esselon coffee, or hot tea. Then browse the vintage candies, maple syrup, household goods (I saw a really cute measuring set for the kitchen). Opposite the entrance end you’ll find an artist gallery with affordable art and jewelry. In between the gallery and general store you’ll find art supplies! Oh and the owners are pretty darn friendly!”

– Patricia Duffy (Google)