Photos by WILD WILD LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY: MANDY SUE GLASER
For generations, Cagey’s General Store has been part of daily life in the Reed community. Nearly 90 years after opening, the eastern Henderson County landmark has reopened under new ownership following months of restoration after devastating flood damage.
Located in the Beals community near Reed, the store is now owned by Ben and Jessi Bridges, who purchased the property in December 2025 with plans to preserve one of Henderson County’s longest-standing rural gathering places while preparing it for the future.
The building was constructed in 1936 by J.E. Simmons and was one of three stores serving the area. Through the decades, it survived several major floods while continuing to serve as a mercantile, community gathering place, deli and, at one time, a gas station. As the other stores disappeared, it remained the last store standing.
The business became widely known as Cagey’s under the ownership of “Cagey” Bryant, earning a loyal following for its strombolis and becoming a destination for customers throughout Henderson County.
In April 2025, the store closed after flood damage and remained vacant for nearly nine months. When the family that owned the store approached Ben and Jessi Bridges about purchasing the property, the couple saw an opportunity to preserve an important piece of Henderson County history.
After purchasing the store, the Bridges immediately began cleaning, repairing and restoring the nearly 90-year-old building. Throughout the renovation, they worked to preserve as many original features as possible, including the historic wood floors and the building’s longtime country store character.
While restoration continues, the deli has reopened, once again serving the store’s signature strombolis and pizzas. The menu also includes cold cut sandwiches, burgers and hand-dipped Blue Bell ice cream. Cagey’s is currently the only place in Henderson County where customers can get hand-dipped Blue Bell ice cream.
The Bridges plan to continue expanding the store’s offerings to better serve local residents and visitors. Future additions include fishing licenses and bait, meat by the pound, ice, propane, tobacco products, Cagey’s merchandise, old-fashioned candy and, eventually, gasoline.
“We plan to add new inventory each week as we continue stocking shelves and expanding the business based on the needs of the community,” Jessi Bridges said.
“As restoration continues, we hope Cagey’s General Store will once again serve as both a community gathering place and a lasting reminder of Reed’s history,” Ben Bridges said.
Whether returning for a favorite stromboli, stopping in for a scoop of hand-dipped Blue Bell ice cream or discovering Cagey’s for the first time, visitors can expect a warm welcome from Ben and Jessi Bridges at the historic Reed landmark.
Calling all Hendersonians!