Welcome to Reece’s Market, a cornerstone of Caledonia’s community for nearly eight decades. This historical landmark is housed in the Temple Block Building, constructed in 1897 after a catastrophic fire reshaped the heart of Caledonia, Ohio. The Temple Block, alongside the Masonic Block, became central to the community, not only architecturally but culturally, as they were home to key fraternal organizations like the Knights of Pythias and the Free & Accepted Masons.
Reece’s Market itself was founded in the 1930s by Warren Reece, a local dairyman with a passion for providing his community with quality groceries. Initially named Reece’s Cash Groceries, the market was a beacon of hope and sustenance during the Great Depression and continued to thrive through the postwar era. Warren was later joined by his son Jack and wife Velma in the 1950s, and the family tradition continued with grandsons Teddy and Craig, and daughter-in-law Barbara Dickerson Reece in the 1980s.
A visit to Reece’s Market was more than just about shopping—it was an experience. Known for its secret-recipe sausages and bratwursts, the market became a local legend. These handmade delicacies were so celebrated that they found a place not just on local tables but also in restaurants across North-Central Ohio. The market’s influence even reached Bucyrus, Ohio, the self-proclaimed Bratwurst Capital.
Beyond its culinary contributions, Reece’s Market served as a cultural hub. Barbara Reece curated a collection of historical artifacts that celebrated Ohio’s rural life, turning the store into an impromptu community museum. This commitment to preserving local heritage made Reece’s Market a pillar of Caledonia’s cultural and social life.
Although Reece’s Market closed its doors in 2010, its legacy continues to resonate in the community, embodying the spirit of family, tradition, and resilience.
