Feraud General Merchandise Store, Commercial landmark in Ventura, California
The Feraud General Merchandise Store is a brick building at the corner of Main Street and Ventura Avenue that reflects early 1900s commercial architecture. Its solid construction and period details showcase the practical design typical of trading establishments from that era.
Jules Feraud built the structure in 1903 during a period of economic expansion triggered by railroad arrival in the region. The timing of its completion marked the start of sustained growth and development in Ventura.
The store served as a gathering place where neighbors met regularly to shop and connect with one another for several decades. Its operation reflects how family-run businesses anchored community life in early 20th-century towns.
The building sits at a central corner intersection that is easy to locate and access from downtown. Visitors can view the exterior facade at any time, with its current use as a bar allowing easy observation from the street.
A barbershop in an adjacent building operated for more than 60 years and eventually inspired a local holiday named after its owner. This longevity demonstrates how deeply rooted long-standing businesses became in the community.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.