Assemblyman Joseph Angelino (R,C,I-Norwich) presented the owners of Mayhood’s Sporting Goods with its new New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry distinction from New York Parks, Recreations and Historic Preservation. It was the assemblyman who nominated the 60-year-old business for this honor. Mayhood’s is known for providing goods to hunters, fishers, anglers, hikers, kayakers and many others who enjoy upstate New York’s outdoors.

“I was pleased to present Mayhood’s Sporting Goods with this important historic designation. It was my honor to nominate this long-time business as a NYS Historic Business, which played a role in my childhood as Mayhood’s Bait Shop,” said Angelino. “I fondly remember, when I was about 10 years old, picking worms for the Bait Shop which at the time was right across from my childhood home. It was great work as a kid. Small businesses like Mayhood’s are what make small communities thrive.”

Founded by Merritt “Red” Mayhood and his wife, Charlotte, Mayhood started as a bait shop on Division Street. It has since expanded twice and moved to larger locations in Norwich. It is now located on Route 12. It continues to be a family-owned business and is currently owned by second-generation Michael Mayhood.

The New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry was established by law in 2020. The program is administered by the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, but relies on nominations from the governor, lt. governor and members of the state Legislature. Businesses nominated must be in operation for at least 50 years and have contributed to the history of the local community.