Snoddy's Store

Elisha Wells Stroupe

​A well-known institution for locals, Snoddy’s Store has been a family-owned and operated business since 1924.  For those outside of Howard County, it’s a rare find.  Online reviews of Snoddy’s often include phrases like “awesome deli,” “this place has EVERYTHING,” and “nicest people.”  Most of us know that, but it’s a good reminder of what a gem we have right here in our county.

For those that don’t live here or are new to the area, Snoddy’s is located on Hwy. 5 & 40, just before the Missouri River Bridge crossing into Boonville, and just a short walk or bike ride from mile marker 189 on the Katy Trail.  It’s the perfect stop after a long bike ride for lunch, drinks, candy, yes, most importantly, don’t forget that candy rack, and souvenirs.  Snoddy’s has a little bit of everything. 

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A little bit of everything.

I’ve mentioned in a previous post that you can get anything at Snoddy’s, specifically in my experience, a spicy pickle, a birthday card, and wedding decorations in one trip.  If you can’t find it, ask Chris or Jimmy Snoddy, and they’ll find it or something similar (or better) that will work in its place.  When they see my husband coming, they know they’re going to have to use some critical thinking skills because they will be asked to figure out what parts to splice/glue/jam some broken object back together with as little work as possible.  

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Snoddy Burger, coming right up!

They’re so friendly, they never complain about the wild goose chases they are sent on.  The staff is very helpful and it reflects our community.  I once brought a college roommate home to visit our wonderful community, and I took her to Snoddy’s for lunch.  I told her, “We’ll just grab a couple of Snoddy Burgers,” and because of my lack of articulation or her lack of hearing correctly, she wasn’t too excited about this prospect, but once she devoured her Snoddy Burger, she was more than happy to eat there again.  She was from Minneapolis, so she was also concerned when I left my car running in the parking lot, but I explained to her that it was okay, the only time it had ever been taken was by friends, who just hid it behind the store.  I don’t recommend leaving your car running though.  It was a 2001 Saturn, so odds of it not being stolen were greatly in my favor.  

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Snoddy’s Store holds many memories for visitors and locals alike.  I remember clearly getting yelled out by my mother in the old store before the flood of ‘93 because I had both hands, elbow deep in the minnow tank.  What are your favorite memories or items from Snoddy’s?  Share in the comments or on Facebook and show your appreciation by stopping by soon for a sandwich, some boots, or maybe just a lottery ticket, if my dad hasn’t already bought them all.  

If you're here on the Katy Trail, hit the highway and head toward Snoddy's for a snack.