Once Upon a Time…

In the spring of 1902, entrepreneur J.L. Barham hired a father-son pair of German carpenters named Theo and Frank Paselk to build him a general store in the pioneering lumber town of Manton, California. At that time, this small mountain town supplied logs via a 42-mile long flume to the largest lumber mill in the world, the Sierra Flume & Lumber Company, which sat beside the Sacramento River in Red Bluff, California.

Over many decades and several owners, earthquakes, wildfires and even a devastating volcanic eruption at nearby Mt. Lassen, the Manton general store has doggedly served the industrious citizens of this quiet but busy community. Descendants of some its earliest citizens still live and work here together with some its newer residents, who find that the same attractions that made it special 150 years ago still hold true today: Fresh mountain air, rich water and fertile volcanic soils.

Today, the old bones of the original general store have been completely rebuilt and reintroduced as the Sweetshoots Cafe, General Store and Bar.

Welcome to Manton, our “quiet but busy” little town!

Still a General Store!

Coffee and much more:

Since 1902, our establishment has been the place to go in town for groceries, wellness items and household necessities. We are always trying out new products, ideas and services to provide better community service so please let us know how we are doing!

Yes! Caramel Macchiatos, Mochas, Espresso, Cappucinos, Hot and Cold Teas and many of your favorites are all prepared here. Look out for seasonal specials and homemade brews during different months.

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