We decided to check out the Park Vista Diner to grab some food as we ventured West into Tennessee. When we arrived, we saw the Watson General Store and decided to check it out before going to the diner for lunch. There was only one other person inside and they were tending the store. We were able to talk with her for a while and learned some interesting historical information about the property. She was very friendly and welcoming and we enjoyed talking with her.
The store was built in 1902 and operated by the Watson family for many years. It unfortunately was lost to time and had fallen into disrepair, but the little Parkway general store is finally now resurrected and reopened as a local gathering place/ provisional store! They opened February 23, 2025 and intend to be open year round. Located just steps away from the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The general store was also the location for the post office for Beng (Benge), NC. from 1902 to 1952. The general store was the gathering place for the locals. The town however has been lost to history.
They now serve coffee in addition to the essentials and some gift items they provide. The front part is a little sitting area with numbered coffee cups on the wall for the locals. In the rear of the store you can still see the post office area.
We picked up a few items and wish them the best of luck. This was a really cool stop learning about some of the history. read more