End of An Era: Schooley’s Mountain General Store Closed In Long Valley

LONG VALLEY, NJ — A Long Valley store with nearly two centuries of history has quietly closed its doors.

The Schooley's Mountain General Store closed earlier this month, leaving many in the community surprised by its sudden closure. A fixture in Long Valley for generations, the store has been a local landmark with deep historical roots.

The General Store, which dates back to around 1830, is home to the area’s oldest U.S. Post Office and holds a prominent place in local history—having hosted visits from former U.S. Presidents including Ulysses S. Grant, William Henry Harrison, and Franklin D. Roosevelt.

The reason for the closure is simple: Peter Andrich, who has operated the store’s current incarnation since 2006, is retiring.

In a social media post, the Long Valley Community Assistance Program and Food Pantry shared that Andrich and the general store staff chose to donate their remaining food and beverage supplies to the pantry.

"That you thought of people in need. We will all miss you and hope you have a great retirement. Long live the pepperoni kid," the Long Valley Community Assistance Program said. "We are still so sad to see this store go, but are so happy Pete has chosen LVCAP to donate his leftover items."

Among the donated items were Gatorade, Red Bull, soda, Joe’s Iced Tea, bottled water, eggs, and more. The food pantry noted that beverage donations are uncommon, making the contribution a welcome and appreciated surprise.

The old-school general store was known for its variety of sandwiches, pizza, salads, and other deli and grocery items.

Schooley's Mountain General Store, located at 250 Schooley’s Mountain Road, also houses the Schooley’s Mountain Post Office, which will remain open despite the store’s closure.