8 Stores That Anyone Who Grew Up In Virginia Will Undoubtedly Remember
If you’re a life-long resident of Virginia, you probably remember the world just a bit differently than it is now. While changes and developments of our state are an exciting sign of the times, there’s no denying the nostalgia that creeps in when one remembers the way things used to be. Take some of the disappearing businesses and department store as a prime example. The following stores were an iconic part of Virginia’s history:
Photographed above is Thalhimers as it appeared in downtown Richmond in 1914. This iconic store opened in 1842. In 1939 an addition to the store was added under the name the Richmond Room. In 1992, however, the businesses was shut down after having been purchased by the May Company.
This U.S. department store was based in Roanoke and opened its first store there in 1890. During its prime years, the business had several locations in both the Roanoke and Lynchburg areas. Heironimus was bought by Dunlaps in 1993 as an attempt to revitalize the business. Unfortunately, the stores couldn't keep up with other nearby businesses and the store was closed permanently in 2005.
This Richmond-based department store was located at 501 E. Broad St. and has since been converted into a hotel and condo complex. The business originally started in 1885 as a dry goods store before moving to the Broad Street location. Miller & Rhoads experienced its heyday in the mid-twentieth century, with iconic features such as fashion shows, the Tea Room, and a popular menu featuring Brunswick stew and chocolate silk pie.
For craft enthusiasts of all ages, Ben Franklin was the one-stop-shop for ribbons, paints, yarn, and just about everything in between. Most of the storefronts that once belonged to Ben Franklin Crafts have been renamed as A.C. Moore. Fortunately, this business continues to sell all of the crafty supplies as the former retailer.
Hect's was a major department store chain in the mid-Atlantic region which saw its beginnings in 1857. Established by Sam Hecht, Jr., the business had several locations in Virginia and its headquarters in Arlington. The company was eventually acquired by Macy's and Bloomingdale's in 2006 when the name was phased out.
A&N, also known as the Army & Navy Supply Store, opened in Richmond after the Civil War. First opening as a dry goods store, the businesses transitioned to selling sports gear and various items. Due to a decrease in sales, the store closed in 2008.
Discovery Zone was frequented by just about every child growing up in Virginia during the 90s. This wonderland of tunnels, mazes, ball pits, and zip lines was nothing short of a playground wonderland. Not to mention the arcades and other games available. Alas, this business closed by 2000.
As early as 1937, Ukrop's Super Markets popped up in central Virginia as a local grocery store beloved for their prepared foods, such as the White House Rolls and rainbow cookies. While the business still runs today, the super markets were replaced in 2010 by Martin's.
Do you remember shopping at any of the above retail or department stores? Which would you add to the list? We’d love to hear from you!
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