Reviving a Historic Landmark

On a crisp and sunny autumn morning, Julie-Ann McNeilly was eager to share the rich history of Johnny’s Store, a cherished landmark in the hamlet of Namao, just north of Edmonton. Established in 1902, this general store is among the oldest in Alberta and has long been the heartbeat of the community, even once serving as a post office, where Julie-Ann's grandmother took on the role of one of Alberta's pioneering postmistresses.

Family Legacy

The store has changed hands over the years, but Julie-Ann's family has had a deep-rooted connection, acquiring it in the 1930s after her great-uncle's tenure as shopkeeper. “My grandpa purchased it in 1949, and since his name is John, it naturally became Johnny’s Store,” she says. “We decided to keep the name; everyone in the area knows and loves it.”

A Mission to Revive

After closing its doors in 2018, the siblings embarked on a mission to revive the store, dedicating countless hours to renovation and planning. Johnny’s Store is set to reopen by November 28, 2023, featuring a variety of goods, a cozy coffee shop, and a bar with their own brew on tap.

Honoring Family Legacy

The motivation behind this revival stemmed from a personal tragedy; Julie-Ann’s father passed away in 2020. Though the store was up for sale and even received an offer, they both felt compelled to honor their family’s legacy rather than let it go. “Growing up, this was our place to grab ice cream and engage with the community. Keeping that spirit alive is crucial to us,” she reflects.

Renovation with a Purpose

Their renovations have skillfully intertwined modern conveniences with historical touches. Julie-Ann excitedly describes how peeling the old wallpaper uncovered beautifully preserved barn boards from the early 1900s. Antique decor adorns the store's walls, and remnants of vintage knob-and-tube wiring can be spotted throughout the space, giving it an authentic feel.

Creating a Cozy Atmosphere

They’ve introduced a charming coffee nook beside a bay window, complete with bistro tables and benches, and designed a bar area at the back serving Johnny’s signature lager. Interestingly, the siblings are still getting used to having indoor plumbing; “My brother still sometimes runs to the back outside to go to the bathroom,” Julie-Ann chuckles.

A Historical Frame

Johnny’s Store itself is a testament to a bygone era, its iconic storefront—complete with a crisp white façade and nostalgic Coca-Cola signs—has become a popular location for film and television productions. The store appeared in the 2003 film adaptation of *Fargo*, directed by prominent American actress Kathy Bates. The Canadian series *Blackstone* filmed there, and more recently, it caught attention when friends notified Julie-Ann about its feature in a Liam Hemsworth flick, *Cut Bank* (2014), where Hemsworth speeds past the store in a dramatic scene.

A Labor of Love

The revitalization of Johnny’s Store has been a labor of love for Julie-Ann and her brother Brendan, providing an opportunity for them to reconnect with their roots and with each other. Julie-Ann, who left Edmonton two decades prior, returned specifically for this project. “There hasn’t been a single day that my brother and I haven't enjoyed being here,” she shares with a radiant smile.

Community Anticipation

As the grand reopening approaches, excitement stirs in the community, with many eager to witness the magic of Johnny’s Store firsthand. Will this historic gem become the new hub of Namao once more? Only time will tell!