Post Rock Variety Store offers locals and visitors alike a wide variety of items from household needs to unique gifts.
On November 29, 2010, Duckwall-ALCO Corporation announced that it would be closing all 44 of its Duckwall's locations, with only one targeted to reopen as an ALCO. The closings were effective in early January 2011 leaving Rush County without a general merchandise store.
As soon as Rush County Economic Development officials learned of the closing, plans were immediately put into motion to find a suitable replacement for the store. Both Economic Development personnel and local businesspersons realized that the store's closing would have a serious negative impact on the economic vitality of the community. For 17 years, Duckwall's served as an “anchor” store to the downtown business district. In addition to employing four persons, the store contributed sales tax revenue directly to the city of La Crosse and the state. It was evident that something needed to be done soon.
The first in a series of meetings was held on November 30 and a decision was reached to pursue the explore the feasibility of a locally-owned store. In addition to being the most feasible and having the shortest time frame, it was the only option that would allow the store to remain in the downtown business district. The location was of prime concern for citizens who have difficulty commuting even short distances. The former “Duckwall's” store building was already owned by Rush County Industrial Development, Inc. The Economic Development committee was also able to secure all of the fixtures and equipment for the store at a modest cost. Thus, Rush County Industrial Development, Inc. has a turn-key facility ready to house a retail variety store. The new store, Post Rock Variety Store opened May 1, 2011 and is owned by a group of investors. Although akin to a "community-owned" store, this project is slightly different. The intention is not to operate it as a not-for-profit cooperative, but as a full-fledged business.
