Hickey’s has been in business for more than 100 years, making it the oldest liquor store in Worcester County, Massachusetts. We’ve got a lot of history, which we’ve documented through written accounts and photos, just like this one. And while we’ve changed locations throughout the last century, the history, experience, and service have traveled with us to each store.

Hickey’s Through the Century

Founded by Thomas A. Hickey in 1922, Hickey’s started as a grocery store at 33 Belmont Street in Worcester, MA. Thomas’s industrious work ethic and honest nature positioned him well for the tumultuous times ahead.

• The Great Depression: By 1930, Hickey’s had three more locations, and as new businesses struggled and workers were laid off, Hickey’s had 32 full-time and 8 part-time employees.
• End of Prohibition: While Thomas was a member of the local Temperance Committee, after Prohibition he expanded his business to sell wine and liquor, becoming the second liquor licensee in all of Worcester County.
• World War II: Workforce shortages from the war hit Hickey’s, causing two locations to close, and his son Paul went to serve (and thankfully came back). Only one of the two closed stores would reopen after the war.
• The 1950s and Supermarkets: Thomas Jr. served in the Korean War, and as larger grocery stores started to gain prominence, Thomas phased out groceries to focus on the liquor business.
• The 1960s and 1970s: In 1963, Thomas A. Hickey died, leaving the business to his children: Mary, Paul, and Thomas Jr. In 1978, Thomas Jr. left the business, with the buyout requiring the sale of most of the properties, leaving the Worcester and Shrewsbury locations.
• The 1990s to Current: Paul Hicky passed away in 1994, leaving the business to his sons, Kevin and Charles, and cousin William. A third location opened in Milford. The cousin left the business, requiring them to sell off the Worcester location. Then they moved in Milford to a bigger location—the one they have today!

Note that these are just some of the highlights of Hickey’s! For the full read and a gallery of the business through the last century, make sure to check out our About Page.

A Family-Owned Liquor Store

We’ve thrown a lot of dates and names at you, but it all boils down to one thing: Hickey’s is a family-owned liquor store, and it’s been that way for more than 100 years. Three generations have made Hickey’s their business, providing services and supporting the community around them. We have passion, we have experience, and when you buy from us, you’re supporting a small, family-owned business.

Thanks for taking the time to learn a bit more about the history of Hickey’s, the oldest liquor store in Worcester County. We hope you’ll come visit us and take a look at our wine, beer, and liquor selections, talking to our friendly and knowledgeable staff (including the Hickey brothers, Charlie and Kevin). Have any questions? Give us a call or send us an email, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.