The James Bean Store is known for its association with prolific business owner Jane MacRae.

From its inception throughout the early decades of the 20th century, the James Bean Store was run by merchant Jane MacRae. MacRae was part of a family with a long history in Blackville. The store was named after her husband and business co-owner, James Bean. Following Bean's death in 1913, Jane MacRae married James Gerrish, who also became her new business partner. Jane MacRae's acute business sense made her one of the most prominent and influential figures in the local mercantile community.

In 1944, the building was acquired by Roy and Walter MacRae, who used it as the headquarters of their delivery service W. A. & R. L. MacRae. W. A. & R. L. MacRae provided delivery service across the rural Blackville area until the 1990s. At present, the building hosts Huestis Insurance.