A freshman college student has undertaken an ambitious venture in Portsmouth, establishing a traditional general store that evokes memories of a bygone era while addressing contemporary economic challenges in the historic district.
Lindsay Goodwin, who graduated from Churchland High School last summer, became co-owner of Marketplace and General Store in Olde Towne Portsmouth in 2023. The 18-year-old entrepreneur now juggles her responsibilities as a business owner with her studies as an Arts major at Virginia Wesleyan University.
The concept for the establishment emerged from Goodwin's childhood experiences visiting old-fashioned general stores throughout the mountains of North Carolina. She sought to recreate that distinctive atmosphere in her hometown, offering Portsmouth residents and visitors a shopping experience that emphasizes nostalgia and community connection.
"Portsmouth is known for its history, and so we wanted to bring back the historical feel, but also the old-fashioned family place for everyone to come," Goodwin explained to local media.
The venture represents a collaboration between Lindsay and her father, Tony Goodwin, a commercial real estate professional. The elder Goodwin articulated multiple objectives for the enterprise: strengthening his daughter's ties to the community where she was raised, providing practical business experience to complement her university education, and creating a sustainable income opportunity.
The business model presents inherent challenges characteristic of retail operations in historic districts. Foot traffic fluctuates significantly, with robust activity during high season, festivals, and holiday periods such as Christmas, followed by predictable declines during slower months. Nevertheless, customer responses have validated the concept behind the store.
"When they come in, they say, 'Man, this reminds me of something I grew up on back home,' and that's what makes us feel good about what we've done," Tony Goodwin stated. "We've created a space that is nostalgic and fits Olde Towne perfectly."
Beyond the immediate family enterprise, Tony Goodwin views the store as contributing to broader revitalization efforts along High Street in historic Portsmouth. The area has experienced persistent vacancy challenges in recent years, making new business establishments particularly significant for the district's economic vitality.
For Lindsay Goodwin, the immediate priorities remain straightforward: maintaining sales performance, preserving the store's distinctive atmosphere, and managing her academic responsibilities. The young entrepreneur acknowledges the demanding nature of balancing these commitments but expresses enthusiasm about the challenge.
The establishment of Marketplace and General Store represents a noteworthy development in Portsmouth's ongoing efforts to preserve its historical character while adapting to contemporary economic realities. The success of such ventures often depends on sustained community support and the ability of young entrepreneurs to navigate the complexities of small business ownership while pursuing educational goals.
