Central Provisions

This federal style brick building was erected on the corner of Fore and Central Street (now Dana Street) directly on the Wharf. The East India Trading Company’s ships would sail directly up to the building and unload their goods such as cotton, silk, indigo dye, salt, saltpeter, tea, and opium. In 1874, the East India Trade Company was dissolved. Through out history, 414 Fore Street has served many different purposes. A wine and bitters shop named Rufus and Son’s moved into the building in 1894. They moved across the street and a barrel top and burlap bags shop moved in. After that, it was home to E. Cory who sold local blacksmiths and wood workers tools and materials. The Great Fire of 1866 burned one third of the whole downtown area but our little brick building stood strong even though the fire brushed by across the street. We are happy to breathe new life into this beautiful old building and see it through the next chapter of its story.