Grocery Shopping 1914

Kirkwood and Mills was a grocery store located in the Barnes block on North State Street across from what was then the location of the Post Office. The proprietors apparently opened the new store about February 6, 1913, and by reading their advertisements in the local newspapers, researchers can get an idea of how the housewives of Lawrenceville shopped for groceries.

The store purchased country produce, eggs, and poultry from local farmers for resale. To encourage farmers to sell to them, Kirkwood and Mills advertised that not only did they pay the highest prices, but they had a hitching rack right in front of their store for their convenience. Housewives were then able to buy a full line of fresh fruits and vegetables in addition to staple and “fancy” groceries.

In November 1914 the store advertised that a train car of fine Wisconsin potatoes would arrive within the week. These potatoes were extra dry stock and would be good keepers. Shoppers could book their order and they would be delivered whenever requested.

For Thanksgiving that year Kirkwood and Mills sold a full line of Thanksgiving groceries including fresh cranberries, celery, and oysters shipped directly from Baltimore. They advertised that they had a large flock of turkeys at the right price also. Chickens would be sold live or dressed.

In December of 1914 Kirkwood and Mills advertised that “Santa was there”.  They had real bargains in candy of all kinds, fruits including grapes, apples and bananas, and nuts of every variety. Sweet Oranges were shipped directly from Florida.

Fresh cakes and bread could be ordered from the bakery each day.  Telephone service could be available by calling phone number 62 and orders would be delivered promptly.