The Necessary Mercantile was built in 1929 and originally housed a grocery called the Tip Top. Community members and travelers heading to Staunton, The Homestead, Highland County, or Harrisonburg enjoyed the convenience of the location. The Tip Top later became a grocery known as Wilson's Self Serve.
After decades and multiple businesses had been in the building, a renovation and restoration was completed. In 2021, The Necessary Mercantile opened. The walls are covered with locally sourced and milled wood. The floor is the original wood with its many years of "character" revealed.

​In addition to various products, yoga classes for all levels are held on Mondays 6-7:00 pm. Beekeeping meetings are held on the first Thursdays of the month. Classes and presentations are scheduled often. Follow us on Facebook and see our Events page for more information.

Open Thursdays through Saturdays 10 - 2