Charlie Johns Store was established in 1939 by Charles H. Johns, as a grocery and general store it was located on the adjacent corner of its current location, now a vacant corner. Dean Lane purchased the business from Charlie Johns in 1971. Prior to this the business had moved into a new expanded location in the building now called the Lane Emporium. By the time the mid 1980’s came about the store was once again ready for a major expansion. In 1986 the current store was ready for business. This new store allowed for much more modern amenities found in supermarkets, such as a deli and bakery departments as well as expansion of the already proven grocery and general store format, while maintaining the ol’ time feel and look of a country store. Dean’s three daughters each put their efforts into the business mostly helping them through high school and college years. Dean’s son Jonathan has been active in the business since the early 1990’s.
The Lane’s have continued the basic business philosophy that Charlie Johns began while continuously striving to improve the business with modern technology. The 12,000 square foot store carries a full selection of groceries, produce, fresh meats, and deli and bakery. But what the family feels makes the store unique is its extensive selection of general merchandise in the “center aisle”. This area includes clothing, housewares, bedding, appliances, hardware, electrical and plumbing needs, and automotive parts to name a few. The store also caters to the outdoor enthusiast with its selection of camping gear such as tents, sleeping bags, air mattresses, Coleman stoves and lanterns, virtually everything you might need while enjoying the area. The store also boasts one of the largest selections of Adirondack books, with well over 300 titles, as well as maps and guides. During the summer months, outside you will see their selection of inflatable rafts, floats, and towable tubes on display and a large selection of flowers and lawn and garden supplies.
Directions
Charlie Johns Store is located in the heart of the Adirondacks at The Four Corners in Speculator, New York.
From Albany: follow I-90W to Amsterdam. Speculator is a scenic 60 minute drive north on Route 30.
From Utica: take Rt. 12N to junction with Rt. 8 and follow Rt. 8 east to Speculator.
Discover the Adirondacks, and discover the convenience of Charlie Johns General Store at the junction of Routes 8 and 30.