Exline, Iowa – The Exline Old Country Store and Antique Exchange celebrated its 6th anniversary of the store opening on October 31st. About 7 years ago, local native Morgan Cline suggested that his hometown have an “old country store with all the good stuff” that he remembered when he was a boy. Locals rallied and supported the effort with the opening of the store coming about a year later. Now, six years later they had their 6th birthday party! Local entertainment was provided by Rodney Randall on the harmonica and Jim Traxler playing his guitar and singing. A good time was had by all. Since the anniversary falls on Halloween each year, a pumpkin carving contest was held. This year there were 12 entiries, which is a record! Special sales were offered within the store and door prizes were given at the end of the day to thank the community for the support and business they have given us throughout the year.
The Exline Old Country Store and Antique Exchange was only the beginning of a number of projects developed by Morgan Cline in Exline. In addition, Cline moved a one room school house to the main street area and renovated it as a replica of the original schools. Then there was the tiny E.E. Withrow building which he did the same thing making it the community betterment office. The list goes on to include renovation of local homes in poor condition, the development of Ponds and Prairies, Coal Miners Commons, and the Exline Hose Company No. 1 Museum.
There is much more than meets the eye in the area. Many are unaware that Brigham Young was named the head of the Morman Church about 1 ½ miles south and east of Exline at a place they called , “The Ring of Rocks.”
Thanks to Cline’s investments and his vision, The Exline Old Country Store and Antique Exchange is now on the map and drawing tourists from far and wide.
Exline Country Store 6th Anniversary
I love everything that is going on in Exline! The store is great! The community is great! Exline is doing a great job of witnessing to other small rural communities the ability to do something significant and change public perception!
And what talented peopel!
Go Exline!
thanks !! very helpful post!