Brettun and Black Store in Hampton, Illinois, invites the public to step inside local history this Saturday, September 5, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Bring the family and explore this remarkable circa-1840s landmark, where the stories of the Mississippi River, early village life, and frontier commerce come together. Visitors will get a close-up look at a time when the river was still untamed, Hampton was newly settled, and the Mississippi served as a vital route for trade and travel.
Built in 1846 by business partners Francis Black and Saranus Brettun, Black’s Store reflects the Mississippi River’s important role in opening the agricultural potential of the Upper Midwest to the wider world. Located along the riverfront, the store once connected directly to steamboat traffic via a wharf below the building. What began here was far more than a retail business—it was part of the growing network of commerce that helped shape the region.
Inside, guests will discover artifacts from the surrounding area and hear stories about how the building was used, preserved, and ultimately returned to working condition. A highlight of the visit is the carefully restored dumbwaiter, which is fully functional and available for demonstration. Whether you are a longtime history enthusiast or simply looking for a meaningful Saturday outing, Brettun and Black Store offers a rare chance to experience a piece of Mississippi River history firsthand.
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