Hadlyme, CT – New owners of the Hadlyme Country Market Lisa Bakoledis and Susan Raible Birch have been working to restore the historic landmark since purchasing the building and business in 2012. They are proud to celebrate three years in business and unveil a completely refurbished and restored market. The new Hadlyme Country Market is much like it was in 1905, a place for locals and tourists alike to gather while in the quaint and storied town of Hadlyme, nestled near Haddam and Salem Connecticut.Treasured Institution Gets a New Look
The Hadlyme Country Market has been a pillar of the riverside since the mid-19th century when steamboats ruled Connecticut. Located near the water, this community center was the hub of commerce and social life. Boaters, locals, and businesspeople came for their market staples and sundries in a traditional neighborhood fashion where everyone knows their neighbor and lends a helping hand. The mastermind behind the operation was Lee Luther Brockway, an astute businessman and entrepreneur who recognized the boom from steam boating and new business along the river. As soon as he noticed a turn from boating to more land-based transportation with the arrival of automobiles, he picked up the store and moved it to a better locale.
Now conveniently located near the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry and Gillette’s Castle, the bustling intersection of CT Routes 148 and 82 (Ferry Road and Norwich-Salem Road respectively) has been the Hadlyme Country Market’s home since 1905. After decades of transitioning owners and falling under disrepair, Lisa and Susan, long-time admirers and locals, purchased the store with a vision for their treasure. Lisa, who worked at the store many times over the years, always felt like it was home; maybe because she lived in the apartment above but more likely because she sensed something special about the neighborhood, the people, and the rich history of the small town market.
The pair quickly went to work planning a remodel that was true to the market’s rich history and architectural integrity. After pouring over archives and records for images, blueprints, and materials, they came up with a plan that would restore the market to its original beauty plus a few modern comforts to attract a new generation of customers. The market was renovated to its original glory with authentic the turn-of-the-century materials salvaged from local historical buildings. In 2013 the doors were opened to the public and Lisa and Susan received an outpouring of locals delighted at the return of an institution. What’s more, the new owners took it upon themselves to run the store like Lee would have, replete with hospitality, charm, and friendly faces.
Two years later, the market continues to upgrade with an exterior restoration to the porch completed this Fall, a sweet spot for anyone that’s had the pleasure of sitting where the sun always shines. Lisa and Susan welcome locals and travelers to enjoy old-fashioned treats, treasures, and conversations in a place everyone can feel at home. Offering daily: deli fresh artisan sandwiches, pot pies, fresh Ashlawn Farm Coffee, newspapers, breakfast and bakery treats. Come by for your daily dose of hospitality.
