Few People Know Arkansas Was Home To The First Dillard’s Department Store In America
By Melanie Johnson|Published April 03, 2023
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Melanie Johnson
Author
I am a nature lover and self-proclaimed foodie wrapped in one package. In my previous life, I was an Accountant, but numbers were boring and writing is the only thing that fuels my soul. So, I write because it's my freedom...it brings me joy. When I'm not writing dope articles for OnlyInYourState, I am writing and editing articles for my online blog on Medium.com. Or, when I get the chance, I am off on a trip with my family chasing waterfalls, or simply exploring the great outdoors. My mantra is to always find the best part of every day and bask in it.
It is widely known that the retail giant Walmart began in Arkansas. But did you know that Dillard’s, the major department store, was established here as well? That’s right, this upscale retailer was founded in Arkansas. And the stores have been a staple in communities nationwide for decades. Knowing that the vision for this retailer began in the small town of Nashville is something to take pride in. Let’s explore the story behind the first Dillard’s in America and learn all about its origin.
At a tender age of 12, William T. Dillard began his retail journey when he worked at his father’s mercantile store in the sleepy little town of Mineral Springs.
So, it is safe to say that it made sense for Dillard to follow on the same path.
In 1938, William invested in his first store called T.J. Dillard’s using funds that he borrowed from his father. The store was in the nearby town of Nashville Arkansas, and it paved the way for the department retail giant, Dillard’s.
From there, William partnered with Wooten’s Department Store in Texarkana. After gaining success, William was able to purchase Wooten’s store in 1948. Shortly thereafter, Dillard’s expanded into states like Texas and Oklahoma.
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With its headquarters in Little Rock, the family-owned store is one of the top-ranking fashion retailers in America.
Today, Dillard’s has 250 locations as well as 32 clearance centers in over 20 states across the nation. In addition, dillards.com has been a great space for online shoppers.
The upscale retailer focuses on providing its customers with carefully curated as well as high quality merchandise at a reasonable price. Items include fashion apparel, jewelry, beauty products, home decor, and more.
Though there have been some recent store closings, this family-owned retailer will continue to make its mark in the industry. It has been 85 years since the first Dillard’s in America was established right here in Arkansas, and it’s great to be connected to such a legacy.
So, did you know that Dillard’s Department Store was founded in Arkansas? Tell us what you think about this retailer in the comments below.
If you would like to visit one of the locations in Arkansas, check out Dillard’s website for the one closest to you.
Aside from Dillard’s, Arkansas is widely known for its diamond mine. In fact, the only public diamond mine in America is here in our great state. Something else for us to take pride in, don’t you agree?
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