Capulin Country Store — Local services in Four Corners States

My grandparents have owned and operated this store since the early 80’s and have been running the register almost every day since. My grandfather even built all of the gorgeous wooden detailing you see throughout the store himself. My Aunt Allison who is an artist has also had many of her pieces featured in the store throughout the years ranging from jewelry, pottery, painted clothing and her amazing collection of unique antiques.

My grandmother, Jenny Lee, is the secret sauce. Each night she meticulously balances the cash register, transaction tape, and books keeping track of every single penny. Oh, and she does it all with pen and paper. No computers to be found in this store! (Besides the security system of course. Don’t get smart.) She also does all of the ordering, merchandising, cleaning, and logistics to keep the store running in tip top shape. Then after all of that, she’s the one that will greet you with a smile and ask you all about your travels.

Years ago we had a restaurant, but due to bad policies passed by the NM state government regarding utilities, it became less feasible to keep up as the years went on. If you remember the curly fries and chicken fried steak I know this is still a heavy sadness for you.

If you are a long time customer and remember a little girl with pigtails eating curly fries off your plate while telling you about some western movie, that was me! And the woman who probably whisked me away and apologized incessantly, that’s my mom. My grandparents are getting older which has made it more difficult to run the store each day, but they do it with love and dedication to the customers that light up the day with their exciting travel stories and smiles.

We have a saying amongst ourselves that we do things the “Capulin Country Store Way.” Which means to welcome and serve each of our guests the best we can. Thank you to those who have made the store a non-negotiable stop on your yearly road trips for the last four decades. We appreciate your support and hope to...

I’ve been driving past this store for 18 years. In fact, I just drove by it now. During the first few years, I would stop in and buy things. One time, though, I had to pull into the parking lot to check on something with my car. I had my two little daughters in the car with me and I was driving alone. We were on our way to Texas. -The owner came out of the store and told us that if we weren’t coming in, we needed to move on. I wasn’t there for more than 10 minutes and was parked away from the store, not in front of it. -I thought that was so highly inappropriate and rude. I promised myself that I’d never go back and I haven’t. It’s not that I dwell on this all of the time. I don’t! I just remember it as I pass by. -If you have a business or run one, treat anyone with decency and courtesy. Not only is it good customer service, but it follows the golden rule of treating others well. And with that…. your business...

I liked it. However, I want to point out a difference in services available now. Travel guidebooks, especially the older ones, prominently mention this place offered meal service as a highlight of the town Capulin. Dining and takeout is no longer offered here. Nearest dining is Des Moines 8 miles to the east. Still worth stopping for restocking the food cupboard or buying local keepsakes, just do not expect to eat here as we did! Thanks to the local shopkeeper for explaining all ...