History of the King and Lamb Grocery Store (1893-1970)

The King & Lamb Grocery history begins in 1838 when Ypsilanti only had 120 houses and the store was located at 40-42 E. Michigan. The store relocated to 101 W. Michigan in 1858, and that became its permanent location. The store sold nearly everything in bulk, coffee was sold as a green berry, and cider was purchased in barrels and held until it turned into vinegar. Cornucopias (cone-shaped wrapping) were used in handling and packaging bulk goods. There was delivery service - boys went from house to house to pick up orders and then to deliver later in the day. The store was closed in 1942 after 104 years of service.