Kaufmann's: The Big Store in Pittsburgh (Landmarks)

Because of another book I had bought here in Canada, I gradually became interested in department store history, and this is a prime example of astore that, in my opinion, died way too soon. Sure, with the advent of on-line shopping, people aren't visiting these downtown stores anymore.I think that's kind of sad. When it closed a couple of years ago this September, there was talk of converting the space into mixed-use residential/commercial space. If that happens, the new owners should at least turn part of the building into a retail history museum.

Well done! Presented E.J. in a positive business light. I learned a lot about the history of our family business.

Brought back great memories of a grander time in Pittsburgh

In addition to the pictures, lots of text concerning life in the Big Store.

The history of Kaufmann's Department store from its beginning in South Side as a men's store/tailor shop to the closing of it in 2015 as a Macy's store.There is a little history about the Kaufmann family and why they came here--no opportunities in Germany as there were in the United States in the 1870's. Two brothers started it with two additional brothers coming over later as teenagers. This took us from making and selling only men's and boy's clothing to adding women's coats then women's clothing to the time when if they didn't sell it, you didn't need it. Their heyday was from the 1920's to 1960's. Edgar Kaufmann used the store not only for selling but teaching as he brought in new technology for people to see and watch.They also took care of their employees. They cared about the people who worked for them since they worked with them in the early days. They had a hospital on the 10th floor of Kaufmann's for their employees as well as customers who might get sick in the story. It was staffed full time with a nurse. Doctors and dentists had fixed hours. If an employee was off 3 days, they sent a visiting nurse to see how they were. If it was found that they lived in less-than-optimal circumstances, the nurse discreetly reported back to the powers that be who sent a social worker to help the person get what they needed to help them heal and improve their lives. If they were off 3 weeks, their job was safe. Over 3 weeks might not be so certain. But the Kaufmann's cared.I enjoyed the little stories from their employees and customers through the years. I liked how community minded the Kaufmann family was. I do believe we will ever see a place of business like this again. It is a shame because loyalty begets loyalty.I learned a lot about Kaufmann's and department stores. Kaufmann's was bigger than I ever knew or thought.

nice book, a lot of good history

Interesting history of a former downtown Pittsburgh institution with some vintage photos in black and white from start to finish.

Well done with good coverage through through the years. Excellent array of images.