The Hester Store, located at 1735 Hester Store Road in the Dacusville community near Easley, South Carolina, is a historic landmark with deep roots in the region’s agricultural and commercial history.​

Built in 1893 by Michael Washington Hester, the store was a central hub for the local farming community. It operated as a general merchandise store and served as a gathering place for residents of the Dacusville area. The Hester family, who settled in the community in 1813, also owned a large farm, sawmill, cotton gin, and grist mill, making the store a vital part of the local economy. In 1933, a granite façade and portico were added to the building, enhancing its architectural appeal. The store was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on February 5, 2013 .​

In 2021, the Hester Store was purchased by Katie Chaney, who undertook extensive renovations to restore the building’s historic charm. The store reopened as Hester General Store, featuring a scratch bakery, café, and general store offering local and regional produce, baked goods, and other goods. The store quickly became a beloved community gathering spot .​

Unfortunately, in December 2023, Chaney announced that the store would close its doors on Christmas Eve due to personal reasons. The decision was described as “heartbreaking,” and the closure marked the end of a new chapter for the historic building .​

The Hester Store has also been the subject of local folklore. Some accounts suggest that the building is haunted by the spirit of an African-American man who was allegedly hanged there in the past. Reports include sightings of his apparition and a lady in a rocking chair through the store’s windows .

While the Hester General Store is no longer in operation, the building remains a significant historical site. For those interested in exploring its history, the store’s listing on the National Register of Historic Places provides detailed information and photographs .