Here’s what I’ve come to realize:
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Opening Day is a Big Deal
Did you hear? That new Walmart in Brookville is finally opening today! Whether it’s the debut of a McDonald’s, a Dairy Queen, or a major discount store, these opening days are like festivals, and you better believe you’ll be there when the doors swing open. You might even pencil it into your calendar, regardless of whether it’s a half-hour drive or more. Other major occasions that warrant the same excitement include the first day of fishing season, hunting season, and the beginning of the growing season. In many small towns, these days can even double as school holidays! -
Banks? More Like Credit Unions
Before the era of big names like TD and Wells Fargo, small towns relied heavily on credit unions—member-owned institutions that offer similar services as traditional banks but with a twist: if you have an account, you’re a part-owner! Sounds fancy, right? And lucky for small-town folks, credit unions are still the go-to for banking needs. Just remember to wrap up your business before 3 p.m. on Friday—otherwise, good luck until Monday! -
Gas Stations Are the Hubs of Social Life
From quaint two-pump stops to bustling convenience stores like Sheetz, gas stations double as social hotspots. Here, you can fuel up your car and your social life with the latest local gossip, trade ideas, or simply hang out in the hopes of running into that special someone. After all, who wouldn’t want to ask Lisa out while waiting for a fill-up? -
Sunday is a Day of Rest
Other than church and the grocery store—if you’re lucky—the rest of town shuts down on Sundays. No exceptions. -
Words Have Their Own Twist
If you want to blend in with the locals, you’ll need to master the lingo. While not every small-towner says “y’all,” you’ll likely hear them refer to a creek as a “crik,” potatoes as “taters,” and subs as “hoagies” or “po’ boys.” It’s all part of the charm! -
Trick-or-Treating is an All-Nighter
I didn’t truly appreciate the art of trick-or-treating until I found myself trudging through snow for four hours just to collect a handful of candy. Why so long? In rural areas, houses can be spaced far apart, especially on farms. So, if you’re not taking a minivan, expect to walk uphill—both ways—just for those sweet treats! -
Directions are All About Landmarks
Forget GPS and city landmarks; in small towns, it’s all about the landmarks. “We’re about 30 minutes away, just past the big oak tree.” You’ll get there, as long as you remember to turn right at the beer barn! -
Everyone Knows Everyone
Whether your town has 300 residents or 5,000, it’s a tight-knit community where privacy is a myth. From neighborly visits to teachers gossiping more than teens, if you’ve missed church or got caught with your date in Farmer Tom’s cornfield, you can bet that Aunt Edna will know before breakfast.
This article was originally published on July 2, 2015. Want to dive deeper into parenting or home insemination ideas? Check out our other posts, like this one!
Summary: Small towns are unique places where opening days are celebrated like holidays, credit unions reign supreme, and gas stations serve as social hubs. With quirky local lingo and a strong sense of community, the experiences of small-town living are unlike any other. For more information on pregnancy and home insemination, visit Women’s Health and for the best products, check out Make a Mom.