Did you know that Alley’s General Store is the oldest retail business on Martha’s Vineyard? Opening in the 1850s, this store provided basic supplies for farmers and fishermen. It was even was a place that they could sell their goods.
I had no idea that it’s the oldest shop. All I know is that every time I drive by Alley’s I want to stop in for a coffee and sit on the porch and watch the world go by. When Alley’s closed last spring, there was a hole in the heart of West Tisbury.
Alley’s General Store Opens Its Doors Again In West Tisbury – Post Office, Coffee, Visiting & More
Alley’s serves numerous purposes – as a PO Box for West Tisbury, a place to pick up groceries and dry goods, grab a cup of coffee, a sweet treat, and more. Also, it’s great to stop there on the way to the beach or before an Up-Island hike. For some, it is even a destination because it is such a special place to shop.
Now managed by the owners of LeRoux, Alley’s has gone back to its roots of being a general store. What do I mean? Well, there are more food items and more pantry and home basics. There is still a great kids section and of course, a collection of interesting one-of-a-kind finds, but it is now more easy to shop.
Alley’s General Store Opens Its Doors Again In West Tisbury – Shopping Experience
I used to find it a little overwhelming to shop Alley’s, and now I feel like it is easier to meander through the store and find what I need. Or in most cases, I really don’t need it but I like it. When I went in early September the doors had just opened and inventory was still making its way to the shelves.
The most noticeable change besides all the lack of all the knick-knacks, the cash register has been moved and the store has a fresh, clean feeling. As people were walking through, I heard mixed reactions on the “new” Alley’s. Some people were enjoying the openness, while others were sad to see a lot of the novelty items gone.
Though not a part of my everyday life since my local general store is Tony’s Market in OB, I thought Alley’s had lots of great things. You can stop by and get chips, soft drinks, and a new grill pan. Grab a cute stuffed Jelly Cat toy and pancake mix or grab a coffee and a snack. Alley’s has something for everyone!
I am just so happy to see Alley’s open again. It is a gathering spot for so many people, and is one of the places to stop at while Up-Island. Congratulations to the new managers and the Vineyard Trust on Alley’s General Store being open for the community.
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