Rockport Indiana Basye's Drug Store Staff Photograph 1914 Real Photo Postcard

Basye's Store, active in 1914, likely functioned as a general store, a cornerstone of commerce in American small towns and rural communities during the early 20th century. These establishments provided a diverse array of goods, from groceries and dry goods to hardware and farm supplies, serving as essential hubs for daily necessities. The "sales force" pictured here represents the public face of such a business, a vital connection between the store's inventory and its local clientele, reflecting the personal nature of retail before the dominance of larger chains.

The year 1914 placed Basye's Store on the cusp of significant global and domestic shifts, including the looming World War I and evolving economic landscapes. General stores were not merely retail outlets; they often served as community gathering places and informal social centers, embodying local economies. The inclusion of both men and women in the sales force also reflects changing societal norms regarding employment, as women increasingly entered the public workforce in roles beyond traditional domestic service, contributing to the family and community economy.