Photograph by John H. Knox
Welcome to Strafford Community Trust
OUR MISSION
The Strafford Community Trust is an all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) nonprofit formed by residents of Strafford, Vermont to nourish, support, and invest in the well-being of our small town. Our first project: making sure the village store never closed its doors.
Board of Directors
Trudi Brock, president
Bob Cowden
Margaret Curtis
Marisa Donovan
Pat Kelly
Rosi Kerr
Tracey McFadden
BJ Miller
Annie Penfield
Vanessa Rule
Rebecca Seibel
WHY WE FORMED
A Store worth saving
For over 100 years, the General Store has been the heart of South Strafford village — a grocery store, post office, bank, and community gathering place all in one. When the Coburn family announced their retirement after 47 years of running it, the community faced a simple choice: let it close, or come together to save it.
Strafford chose to come together. Neighbors, old-timers, and newcomers raised the funds to purchase the building, and the Strafford Community Trust was formed to own and steward it for future generations. The store reopened in 2025 under new management — still affordable, still for everyone.
"There isn't a restaurant or bar for miles. The main gathering spot is Coburn's General Store in South Strafford... Mr. Kahan's fans have lately been showing up there, asking to take selfies with Melvin Coburn, the proprietor, whose voice can be heard on his song 'The View Between Villages.'"
— The New York Times
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
What the store means to Strafford
"Our store is the glue that helps Strafford villagers from the Upper and Lower Villages stick together — news and conversation, notice of new babies and achievements, bake sales and public notices. Our general store is where we connect."
— From the original Trust prospectus
"Having such a well-stocked store in town has saved me more times than I can count. And I love it that there is always a table available for bake sales and raffles."
— Amy Huyffer, business owner
"Coburn's General Store is a foundation part of Strafford. Connections to other people are created and strengthened with every visit. It is a place which gives meaning and depth to our community."
— Cabot Teachout, attorney
"Our store is our community center and essential to daily life in our town. It allows people to easily find what they need — and ice cream."
— Punka Brown, contractor