Originally erected in the 1790’s by Henry Hembold(t), the building was intended to be a tavern, but his initial petition was denied.
John Rawlins, the next store owner, was captain of the volunteer rifle company in the War of 1812. Mr. Rawlins lost his tavern license in 1818 because of frequent late night disturbances by local mill workers. His departure was also hastened by some locals who were disgruntled after he testified against them erecting a pole, in defiance of the Alien and Sedition Acts back in 1806.
