Oldest Store Museum
The Oldest Store Museum is an incredible local landmark in St. Augustine, Florida. Established in 1665, it is the oldest store in the United States and a great place to learn about the history of this beautiful city. It is open to the public and offers an amazing array of artifacts, including a recreation of an eighteenth-century merchant shop and an old school house. Within the museum, visitors can explore the many exhibits that tell the city’s story, offering a fascinating glimpse into its past.
History of the Oldest Store Museum
The Oldest Store Museum was established in 1665, making it the oldest store in the United States. The original store was owned by the famous British merchant Zachariah Wylly and was known as Wylly Store. It was a general merchandise store that sold everything from produce and livestock to guns and clothing. In 1819, the store was taken over by Harry Cutter and his sons and was renamed Cutter’s Store. The store continued to operate until 1952, when it was donated to the city of St. Augustine.
From 1952 until 1976, the store was kept as a private museum, before being opened to the public in 1977. Since then, the Oldest Store Museum has become one of St. Augustine’s premier attractions, offering visitors a unique and educational experience.
What You Can See at the Museum
The Oldest Store Museum is a wonderful place to explore and learn about the history of St. Augustine. Inside the museum, visitors will find:
- A recreation of an eighteenth-century merchant shop
- An old-fashioned school house
- A large collection of artifacts from colonial times, such as tools, guns, clothing and more
- Interactive exhibits to help visitors learn more about the history of the city
The museum also offers a wide variety of educational programs for children, such as a school field trip program and summer camps.
Why Visit the Oldest Store Museum?
Visiting the Oldest Store Museum is an amazing way to learn about the history and culture of St. Augustine. At the museum, visitors can explore the exhibits and artifacts that tell the city’s story, giving them an up close look at the past. The museum also offers a wide range of educational programs and activities for children, making it a great place for families to visit.
- Experience an invaluable piece of American history
- Explore interactive exhibits about the city’s culture and history
- Participate in educational programs for children
If you are visiting St. Augustine, be sure to stop by the Oldest Store Museum and explore its incredible artifacts. From its 18th-century merchant shop to its collection of artifacts from colonial times, the Oldest Store Museum offers an incredible glimpse into the history of this amazing city.
