Steve Carell buys general store in Mass.

MARSHFIELD HILLS, Mass., Jan. 16 (UPI) -- Massachusetts-born TV star Steve Carell confirmed to the Boston Globe he has bought the Marshfield Hills General Store, a local landmark in his home state.

Carell is best known for his work on "The Office" and "The Daily Show," and in the films "Get Smart," "Evan Almighty" and "The 40-Year-Old Virgin."

The actor bought the 790-square-foot general store, which was built in 1853, in November and became its official owner New Year's Day. His sister-in-law Tish Vivado runs the shop with a staff of four people in Marshfield Hills, the historic village where Carell spends his summers, the Globe said. Carell reportedly learned the store was for sale in October and bought it soon after for an undisclosed amount.

"This is much more of an emotional investment than a business one," Carell told the newspaper in an e-mail. "I saw an opportunity to help to preserve a little piece of history. I also felt that places like the Marshfield Hills General Store represent a gathering place, and give people a sense of community. These spots are growing more and more scarce. I hope to keep this particular one alive and well."

Carell said he plans to get more involved in the business when he gets a break from work.

"I will be manning the cash register, and stocking the shelves as time permits!" he wrote in his e-mail to the Globe.