A love letter to Back Country

Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrowmindedness

Mark Twain -- via the always witty Back County A-Frame

At 2702 Beaver Ave stands an eclectic brick building that has been a centerpiece of downtown Beaverdale since at least 1925. Over the decades, it has housed businesses like Clayton’s Variety and Community Pharmacy, whose soda jerk stand is still hinted at by the raised floor in the center of the building where the station once stood.

In 1974, Jamie and Diana Wornson moved their clothing outfitter from Ames into this eclectic space, establishing Back Country as a Beaverdale staple. When they retired, ownership passed to their daughter Lexi and longtime staff member, Jay Kozel, ensuring the neighborhood’s legacy of stylish community involvement continued.

For Back Country has always been more than just a clothing store—it’s been a hub of neighborhood connection. Whether through the Beaverdale Bluegrass Festival, streetscaping improvements, Whitmer Park enhancements, or the Beaverdale Neighborhood Association, Jay and the Back Country team have been at the heart of making things happen.

Like the Bull & Finch Pub—better known as the inspiration for Cheers—stepping into Back Country meant being greeted by name and enjoying their signature wit, in addition to having staff remember your waist size. Pre-COVID, you might even grab a cold one from the fridge tucked in their backroom.

So from Beaverdale, with love—thank you, Jay and the Back Country team, for decades of style, sidewalk sales, and community spirit. May whatever come next for 2702 Beaver Ave. continue the legacy.

(Written by Beaverdale resident and former BNA board member Adam Plagge)

Read the reasons behind the store's closing here.