The Nostalgic World of Five and Dime Stores

The Nostalgic World of Five and Dime Stores

The five and dime stores were once a staple of American retail, offering a wide range of goods at very low prices. These stores, with their catchy names and vast selections, capture a unique era of shopping that many remember fondly. In this blog, we will delve into the history of these iconic establishments, featuring notable names such as McCrory’s, Woolco, John’s Bargain Store, Grayshell, Ben Franklin, Kresge’s, and Woolworths.

What Were Five and Dime Stores?

Five and dime stores, often referred to as variety stores, originated in the United States in the late 19th century. The concept was to offer affordable merchandise, where items could typically be purchased for five or ten cents. These stores made shopping accessible to all, particularly in a time when local economies were changing and the demand for affordable goods was rising.

Key Players in the Five and Dime Era

1. McCrory’s

Established in 1882, McCrory’s was a significant player in the five and dime movement. By the 1950s, it had expanded to hundreds of locations across the U.S. McCrory’s offered a variety of items, from household goods to toys, appealing to middle-class families looking for value.

2. Woolco

As a chain of discount department stores, Woolco was a subsidiary of the Woolworth Company. It offered a larger selection than traditional five and dime stores, transitioning the model into the growing field of discount retailing during the 1960s and 70s.

3. John’s Bargain Store

Another memorable name in five and dime history was John’s Bargain Store. Established in New York City, these stores specialized in selling clearance items and deeply discounted merchandise, attracting bargain hunters looking for deals.

4. Grayshell

Grayshell operated primarily in urban centers and catered to diverse communities. While less well-known than Woolworths or Kresge’s, it remained a neighborhood staple through the latter half of the 20th century.

5. Ben Franklin

Started as a single store in 1927, Ben Franklin went on to become a chain with a focus on craft supplies, home décor, and educational toys, becoming beloved for its community involvement and customer service.

6. Kresge’s

Founded in 1899, Kresge’s was another giant in the discount retail field. Known for its innovative approach, Kresge’s eventually evolved into the Kmart chain, transforming the variety store model.

7. Woolworth’s

Perhaps the most famous of all five and dime stores, Woolworth’s opened its first store in 1879. It became a cultural icon, known for its lunch counters and wide variety of products. For many, it epitomized the DIY shopping ethos of the time.

The Impact of Five and Dime Stores

These stores not only changed the way consumers shopped but also paved the way for modern retail practices. Key impacts included:

• Affordability: Made shopping accessible to lower-income families.
• Variety: Provided a wide range of goods under one roof.
• Community Centers: Served as social hubs in many towns.
• Innovation: Inspired future retail formats and discount chains.

The Decline of Five and Dime Stores

Despite their early success, by the late 20th century, many five and dime stores struggled against the rise of large discount retailers and online shopping. The shift in consumer behavior and shopping habits significantly diminished the presence of these stores, with many either closing or transforming into other retail formats.

Conclusion

The legacy of five and dime stores, including well-loved brands like McCrory’s, Woolworth’s, and Kresge’s, remains part of American retail history. They revolutionized shopping by prioritizing affordability and accessibility, embedding themselves in the cultural fabric of the communities they served. While they may be largely absent from today’s shopping landscape, their impact continues to resonate in modern retail.