Grove, OK – May 28, 2025 

The Seneca-Cayuga Nation officially broke ground today on Flint Fire Mercantile, a new grocery and fuel concept located in Grove, OK. 

Blending modern design with the charm of a country store, Flint Fire Mercantile will offer a fun, convenient stop for both local residents and visitors to Grand Lake. The project marks the first phase of a larger master plan that includes an RV park, amphitheater, boat ramp, dock, and a future casino development. 

Beyond convenience, the store will address a critical need for access to healthy, affordable food in the region. Census data shows that many households near the site currently lack nearby grocery options—making food access a serious issue for the surrounding community. 

“Flint Fire Mercantile is an important step for our Tribe as we continue to develop the economic base in our community,” said Chief Charles Diebold of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation. “The store will strengthen all our enterprises—including Flint Fire Ranch, Flint Fire Marina, Grand Lake Casino, The Lodge, and the Seneca-Cayuga Tobacco Company. Most importantly, it will provide jobs, fuel, and food options for everyone who lives in and visits the area.” 

Flint Fire Mercantile will be located at the intersection of S 655 Rd and E 250 Rd, just north of the Elk River Cowskin Bridge. Architecture services by 1Architecture, built by Crossland Construction Company Inc., with project management by Encompass Native. 

Architectural rendering of Flint Fire Mercantile, currently under construction by the Seneca-Cayuga Nation in Grove, OK. Flint Fire Mercantile will be a 6,400 square foot general store, produce market, fuel station, deli, and café. 

Representatives of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation participate in a groundbreaking ceremony for Flint Fire Mercantile in Grove, OK. The 6,400-square-foot facility will include a general store, produce market, fuel station, deli, and café. Pictured left to right are Mark Morrison, General Manager of the Seneca-Cayuga Tobacco Company; Paul Barton, Faithkeeper and Director of Land, Language & Cultural Preservation; Dennis Sisco, Executive Director; Nick Birdsong, General Manager of Grand Lake Casino; Charles Diebold, Chief of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation; Curt Lawrence, 2nd Chief; Tonya Blackfox, 4th Council Person; Cynthia Donohue Bauer, 1st Council Person; and Joanna Hadley, Deputy Director of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation.