Home BizBuzz 132 year old Upper Cumberland store celebrated by state

132 year old Upper Cumberland store celebrated by state

January 23, 2024

Store is listed on the National Register of Historic Places

Pall Mall – Originally built by W.M. Johnson in 1892, the Forbus General Store has been in the same location, serving the same community, ever since.

There have been changes since its inception, including a gas-powered gristmill, a blacksmith shop and several granaries. It has sold everything from hardware to guns and even caskets. It has seen the past, future and the present. Today, the store still stands at 3902 North York Highway in Pall Mall as both a celebration of the past and a tribute to it and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

This week, the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) announced it would recognize companies that have been in operation for over a hundred years in the state.

Forbus made the list.

“To say that we are proud of these businesses is an understatement,” said TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter. “These legacy companies have seen great success, overcome obstacles, survived the pandemic, and remain pillars in their communities. I am honored to recognize each of them for contributing to our state’s history and spurring economic growth in Tennessee.”

According to a release by the state, TNECD will host a series of events to pay tribute to many of these centennial companies, beginning with those located in counties designated by the Appalachian Regional Commission as distressed in FY 2019.

The counties include Lake, Lauderdale, Hardeman, McNairy, Perry, Grundy, Bledsoe, Van Buren, Jackson, Clay, Fentress, Morgan, Scott, Cocke and Hancock.

“In 2019, we began an administration-wide mission to expand opportunity for Tennesseans in rural areas, and our strategic workforce and infrastructure investments have resulted in a historic reduction of our state’s distressed counties,” said Gov. Bill Lee. “Tennessee is leading the nation as one of the best places to do business and raise a family, and I thank these companies for their commitment to creating greater opportunity in our state.”

TNECD says the companies represent the best the state has to offer.

“From banks and dining establishments to major manufacturers, these companies represent the state’s thriving industries and have provided countless opportunities to Tennesseans in communities across the state,” said TNECD in a release.

Other companies being recognized include: