Emons Store and Museum Represents a Treasure for Andover

Exhibits, gifts, books, fascinating items

August 23, 2023 • Saved under Andover Organizations
By Caroline Moulton Ratzki, Andover Historical Society Volunteer
A cleaned and refurbished Emons store looks great and attracts many interested tourists and shoppers. Photo: Caroline Moulton Ratzki

Working as a volunteer at the Emons store this summer, I met folks from Franklin and Wilmot who were just amazed by the whole setup at Potter Place. Young people were oohing over the historic items, specifically the ornate cash registers, and they had fun using the crank operated telephone to talk to their friends in the railway station.

The Emons Store exhibits works of local artists and is planning for more future exhibits. Photo: Caroline Moulton Ratzki

The exhibition of local artists is a lovely addition to the store, and the historical society is planning future exhibitions, featuring items that were hand-carved and hand-forged in Andover. The store also sells books by local authors and a variety of unique gifts.

The museum buildings are open from Memorial Day to Columbus Day. Hours are 10 to 3 PM on Saturdays and 12:30 to 3 PM on Sundays. For more information, go to andover history.org. 

There was, however, one thing missing today: strawberry shortcake! The folks who used to make it didn’t do so this year, disappointing a lot of people. Strawberry shortcake alongside the book sale was one of the highlights of Andover’s Fourth of July celebration and a beloved tradition at the Old Time Fair. Many people asked about it today, some said they had come for the strawberry shortcake! 

Is there an organization out there who might like to take up this tradition? If yes, they can contact the Historical Society, PO Box 167, Andover New Hampshire 03216.