406 MT Mercantile Celebrates Grand Opening

The new 406 MT Mercantile, Lincoln's newest shopping destination, had their grand opening the weekend of June 27.

The new retail shop at 224 Main Street features a variety of Made in Montana items.

Sarah Muse, owner of the new establishment, developed the idea to bring additional shopping to Lincoln, while creating a business that fit her schedule and lifestyle. She said she likes the idea of being able to set her own hours and work at her own pace, which is really helpful given some of her health issues over the past couple of years.

"It allows me to work at my own pace. It's perfect." she said.

Muse, who has worked in retail for several years, including at Lincoln's own Hi Country Trading Post for more than six years, decided to open a store in the center area of town giving locals and tourists the opportunity to shop for local Montana goods and provide an outlet for local residents to sell their wares.

"I always knew there were local folks who made things, I just don't think I knew how many talented, local folks Lincoln has. It's fun to see all the things people are bringing in." Muse said.

Having her own store also gives her more opportunity to carry a variety of items. The small store boasts Montana-made food, books, art, clothing, hats, jewelry, pottery, greeting cards and more, with new items arriving weekly. "There really is something for everyone and a place to find that perfect gift for someone, including yourself," Muse stated.

One of her favorite things with her shop is the personal interaction she has with her vendors. "It's very friendly, and laid back which I really enjoy" Muse said, and added that purchasing the Made in Montana products was also one of the favorite aspects of her job when at Hi Country.

Currently, there are about 25 vendors with items in the store. Muse is open to additional vendors and items. She notes the space is small, but is willing to work with folks and accommodating as many vendors as she can. If you'd like to speak with her about items you may want to have in the store, or have any feedback or ideas to share, you can reach her at 406-465-9356.

Muse wants to thank the local folks. who have been so receptive to the store and very supportive.

"They came in the first weekend and brought friends back with them for the Fourth. It's really nice to have their support and I know it's the locals that will be here long after the tourists have gone."

The weekend of the 4th of July found the store hopping.

"I was worried with the size of the shop there might be an issue with the number of people coming in, but everyone was very polite and practiced social distancing or wore masks. They were very respectful of one another and if the shop had more than a couple of people in it, people would wait outside and rotate in once it was less crowded. Everyone was really kind and considerate of one another and very supportive of the shop." said Muse.

Muse's plan was to start small and see what happens stating that the location was a perfect spot to start and grow. "I signed a year lease to start. If it's doing well and if I outgrow the space in a year, I'll regroup and look at other options." she said.

Stop in and visit the shop during business hours, Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays between noon and 4 p.m. The shop is closed Mondays.