Many an Adirondack visitor has stopped into Charlie Johns Store in Speculator, a 12,000 square foot general store specializing in filling all the needs of both residents and guests alike.
With a full selection of everything from groceries and produce to housewares and camping gear, Charlie Johns has served the people of the Speculator area since 1939 when Charles H. Johns founded his original grocery and general store. Then, it was actually located across the street on the adjacent corner of today’s building. Business was good for the little shop, so it expanded to a bigger location in what is now the Lane Emporium to better serve its clientele.
Dean Lane bought the business from Charlie Johns in 1971, and in 1986 he expanded it once again into the full service store it is today. Few other stores offer as much in the same amount of space — there are all the necessities you expect in a general store, but there is also a deli and a bakery, electrical and plumbing equipment, automotive parts, appliances, and clothing. The expansions never lost the old time feel of that original shop Charlie Johns opened back in 1939, however, and the family-friendly atmosphere has been enhanced by the help of Dean’s children working alongside their dad.
Charlie Johns also features a veritable treasure trove of Adirondack-themed books, with more than 300 titles available for all readers to be able to learn a little more of the lore of the region. In the summertime the inventory expands to include inflatable rafts and floats plus flowers and lawn and garden supplies.
Of course, a main draw to the Speculator region is the rugged outdoors, so Charlie Johns always has all the accouterments for a stay in the woods. From tents to sleeping bags to lanterns, everything needed for an Adirondack adventure is right there, including maps and guides to the area.
A trip to Speculator and the Adirondacks wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Charlie Johns Store, located on the Four Corners in the middle of Speculator. They are open Mondays through Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more info, call (518) 548-7451.