A variety
store with…read moreeverything you
could want
Prudence Island Variety is THE store on the island. Outside of a few local veggie stands, the only store, It is frequently referred to as Marcy's place after the wonderful woman that kind of hovers over the area.
And no, Prudence Island Variety is NOT in Newport. As usual Yelp refuses to accept the address I put in and places the store some place where it isn't. And so it goes.
The front door and porch is only a few steps from the ferry and as in the case with most small island general stores, it also serves as the post office, local book exchange, place to post or read local notices, look for lost pets, trade info or just sit around and shoot the crap with people. It's hard to believe but a casino once stood on the spot where the small store is now located. The hurricane of 1938 eliminated the casino as well as most of the other buildings on the island.
The store hasn't changed much over the years. The addition of the Del's lemonade machine was the one huge addition. They always have fresh coffee, locally made muffins and pastries, a small case for frozen stuff, lots of junk food, and a sundry collection of mugs, shirts, key chains, pictures and stickers with the Prudence Island logo. At various times pizza, sandwiches, and small hot meals are offered. Everything is pretty much at the whim of Marcy so you never know exactly what they will or won't have at any given time.
It's just a small place, sort of messy, dark, unorganized with Marcy scooting back and forth from the post office to the store, lost in her own world. You patiently wait for her because you are definitely on island time once you go through that door. But then that's a big part of the charm and appeal. It's easy to imagine the store looking and operating exactly the same way many, many years ago.
If you ever go to the island you will stop at this store. Buy some junky survivors perhaps or some treats to enjoy out on the porch or on the picnic tables over looking the bay. Maybe get sniffed by some of the local dogs, talk and laugh with the very friendly and interesting local people. Perhaps even start to observe Marcy's routine and wonder exactly what in the world she is doing.