Skull Valley General Store is a one-stop shop.

SKULL VALLEY — The Skull Valley General Store performs its “Symphony of the Floor Boards” almost every day. Years ago, all general stores had such melodies because they all had hardwood floors which squeaked under the footsteps of those who trod therein. It was (and is) a discordant kind of music. The beat and length of each selection depended on how far the squeakiest walked across the floor. The songs were mournful, but comforting, because the general store was the primary gathering place for the community.

The creaky floors and general stores are almost all gone now, replaced by in-and-out establishments where nobody knows anybody. But on the backroads, a few oldtimers still play their haunting melodies over and over to welcome both friend and stranger. It’s that way at the Skull Valley General Store, which stocks basic necessities, serves as a post office, takes phone messages, and provides a central meeting place for the community.

The store was built in 1916 and retains much of its original flavor, including the squeaky floors and the warmth that comes with a sense of belonging. Thsoe who long to return to the good ol’ days will find the store on Iron Springs Road, just across the street from the Skull Valley Service Station. For details, call 928-442-3351 or visit the Facebook page.