A Beaver City family business remains a community staple after more than a century

BEAVER CITY, Neb. (KOLN) - Shafer’s Unique Gifts and Coffee Shop now specializes in treats and treasures. But at one time, the store also served as a general store, it had a grocery store, and even sold farm equipment.

Meredith Williams, a fourth-generation co-owner of Shafer’s, said her great-grandfather built the buildings that house the store. The main retail section has been in continuous operation since 1906, she said.

Williams said much of the store’s interior remains original, including the cabinetry, counters, floors, and shelving. She said a balcony inside the building was once used by a band that performed on Saturday nights.

The store also accepted tokens in place of cash for goods such as cream and eggs. Williams said one customer accumulated enough Shafer tokens to purchase a car for $600 in 1923.

In the last 14 to 15 years, Williams and her sister-in-law, Kay Shafer, opened a coffee shop on the west side of the building, which was originally the store’s grocery section. The building on the east side, formerly used for appliances, furniture, and farm equipment, is currently empty.

Shafer’s specialties include homemade caramel cinnamon rolls, Williams said.

The store also has a connection to the Buster Brown shoe brand. Williams said her father was featured in advertising for Buster Brown shoes sold at the store.

Williams said the store represents the history of the community and serves customers who prefer to shop in person rather than online. The store also offers free gift wrapping.

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