Our Story
The beating heart of Wilson since 1954.
Hungry Jack's General Store is nestled in the middle of downtown Wilson, Wyoming. It was established back in 1954 by Dorothy "Dodie" Stearns and Clarence "Stearnie" Stearns, and has become an iconic Wilson landmark. The store continues to be a testament to the enduring spirit and communal bond of our close-knit small town.
Hungry Jack's Opens
When the Stearns moved to town Wilson was a modest settlement with a population of just 34 people. Undeterred by the town's small size, they saw its potential, and the need for a general store to serve it. Dodie and Stearnie acquired a plot of land across from Nora's Fish Creek Inn, and they built the store in only six weeks. Hungry Jack's General Store was open for business.
Pilot & Community Pillar
Clarence Stearns brought a rich tapestry of experiences to the venture. Stearnie served his country with distinction and became a decorated United States Air Force pilot in World War II . After the war he worked as a ski instructor in Squaw Valley and later as a retail manager in Yellowstone National Park. His diverse life experience and commitment to hard work and community service became the foundation upon which Hungry Jack's was built.
The Legacy Continues
In 1989, the reins of the store passed to Jana Stearns. Hungry Jack's continued to thrive and adapt to the changing needs of the rapidly-growing community around it. Jana made sure that the core values instilled by her parents stayed strong, and the store remained a vital part of Wilson's identity.
New Business Model: Community Ownership
Jana began considering her options for the future of Hungry Jack's a few years ago. Someone would need to buy the store in order to preserve it and keep it going. The people of Wilson rallied together to form the community-owned Hungry Jack's Company in order to purchase the store. The Hungry Jack's Company represents over 600 local residents.
Community ownership ensures that the store will remain a cornerstone of Wilson for a long time to come.
Our Mission
At Hungry Jack’s Company, our mission is to meet the grocery and general store needs of the local community and visitors of Teton County, Wyoming. As a community-owned business, we prioritize offering essential goods at fair prices, putting the interests of our community above financial gains. We proudly feature local and regional products, as well as items made in the USA. For imported goods, we are committed to ensuring the highest standards of labor and environmental practices. Hungry Jack’s is dedicated to fostering an inclusive community and workplace, reflecting the values and spirit of Wilson.
We are committed to keeping the Stearns spirit of community stewardship alive & well long into the future.
As Wilson continues to grow and evolve, Hungry Jack's remains a steadfast symbol of the town's rich history and vibrant spirit. The store stands as a reminder of the power of community, the importance of local heritage, and the enduring legacy of the Stearns family.
Hungry Jack's Merchandise
