Garfinckel's elegant Neo-classical 1930 edifice on 'F' Street in the Nation's Capital
Garfinckel's graced the corner of Fourteenth and 'F' Street NW
Julius Garfinckel & Co.
F Street at 14th
Washington, D.C. (1898/1929)
Washington, D.C. (1898/1929)
NAtional 8-7730
First Floor
Cosmetics • Hosiery • Handbags • Precious Jewelry • Costume Jewelry • Scarves • Gloves • Blouses • Hat Bar • Accessories • Rainwear • Sportswear • Small Gifts • Luggage • Small Leather Goods • Fendi Boutique • Hermès Boutique • Trussardi Boutique • Men’s Fragrances • Men’s Gifts • Men’s Furnishings • Neckwear • Gregorian Candle Salon • Candies
Second Floor
Men’s Sportswear • Men’s Clothing • Men’s Shoes • Men’s Designer Sportswear • Contemporary Men’s Shop • Off Campus • Par Avion • Young Men’s • American Express Travel Bureau
Designer Third Floor
Designer Dresses • Yound Designer Dresses • Designer Sporstwear • Designer Salon • Fur Salon • Chanel Boutique • Jaeger at Garfinckel’s • Designer Shoes • Millinery Salon • Couturier Salon
Fourth Floor
Loungewear • Intimate Apparel • Robes • Sleepwear • At Homewear • Contemporary Sleepwear • Designer Loungewear • Designer Sleepwear • Contemporary Loungewear • JG Dresses • JG Coats & Suits • JG Sportswear • JG Shoes • Junior Dresses • Junior Coats • Junior Sportswear • Contemporary Sportswear • Beauty Salon
Fifth Floor
Special Editions Dresses • Special Editions Shoes • Special Editions Sportswear • Sepcial Editions Shoes • Greenbriar Dresses • Greenbriar Sports Shops • Greenbriar Knits • Greenbriar Shoes • Greenbriar Sports • Greenbriar Coats • Greenbriar Plus • Updated Sportswear • Updated Dresses • Greenbriar Garden Tea Room • Family Album Corner • Town Art Gallery
Sixth Floor
Young World Boyswear • Boys Clothing • Girlswear • Childrens • Toddlers • Infants • Young Juniors • Shoes • Toys • Debutante Shop • Debutante Shoes • Sub-Deb Shop
Seventh Floor
China • Silverware • Crystal • Stemware • Gifts • Art Porcelains • Waterford Gallery • Boehm Gallery • Linens • Bath Shop • Gourmet • Trim-a-Home Shop • Antoine Salon • Wig Boutique
Eighth Floor
Customer Service • Cashier • Credit Office
BRANCH STORES (1942-1972)
Spring Valley (1942)
4820 Massachusetts Ave.
35,000 sq. ft.
Seven Corners (1956)
Fairfax Co. VA
50,000 sq. ft.
Montgomery Mall (1967)
Bethesda MD
90,000 sq. ft.
Tyson’s Corner (1968)
McLean, VA
30,000 sq. ft.
Landover Mall (1972)
Landover, MD
90,000 sq. ft.
Springfield Mall (Feb. 28, 1973)
Springfield, VA
BRANCH STORE MAP
loved,loved this store in washington dc
ReplyDeleteThe store inside the Tyson's Corner mall was lavish with it's sharply angled black marble entrance and glass stairs. I have one shirt of my father's with a Julius Garfinkel label and will keep it forever!
ReplyDeleteWow, this brings back memories. I worked selling shoes at Garfinkel's Tysons Corner store from 1984-1986.
DeleteI worked in the shoe department downtown
DeleteSo did I. Who are you people?
DeleteMy Mother worked for Garfinkel's for 41 years. She started out as a pregnant (with me) phone operator, advanced to shoe sales and then on to the Display Department at the Spring Valley Store. She decorated the windows and interior displays at the F Street store until 1956 when she was assigned to the Seven Corner's Store Display Department. I still have a few much loved signature Garfinkel's boxes.
ReplyDeleteWere your Mothers initials of her first name BA. I worked with a lovely visual lady when I first started in visual display in 1980 I worked at that store and the Tysons store around 1981.
DeleteI think I worked with your mother from 75 to 80 at Seven Corners. I had my first job there as a stock boy and on the sales floor in the China department. She used to let me help her put up the Christmas decorations. She taught me a lot about good Christmas design.
ReplyDeleteI worked for Garfinckel's in the Security Department, first at Montgomery Mall and later downtown. I worked under Helen Zinn, Director of Security. This lady was a great boss. She was married to E. Z. Zinn, an FBI agent. A number of years later, after a career as a lawyer and judge, I returned to police work and the fellow who did my background investigation was a retired FBI agent, who trained under Mr. Zinn.
ReplyDeleteMy mother who is still with us at 88 loved to shop at Garfinckel's. We still have silverware that she acquired from the store. My grandmothers shopped there as well. It was the store for old line Washingtonians.
If you see the movie, J. Edgar, with Leonardo DiCaprio, there is a scene in Garfinckel's. It is pretty close as to what I remember from the early 70's.
Sorry to see the store close down.
Kevin J. Street
Streetlaw1@aol.com
I lost contact with Mrs. Zinn when I moved South. I would love to reconnect with her.
I just found your blog researching a peignoir set I just purchased, it has a tag in it that reads: "Julius Garfinkel & Co. Washington - Paris" .
ReplyDeleteI am trying to date and price this piece and it is so nice to find a site with some history.
Thank you.
I also just acquired a beautiful vintage evening bag that has gold stamping inside that reads: Julius Garfinkle & Co. Washington, D.C. it also has gold stamping on the inside opposite side that reads: MM in fancier lettering, could be someone's initials? Does anyone know if this department store was known to monogram their handbags for customers? I would love any information that anyone can offer. Thanks :)
ReplyDeleteI have been researching details about Garfinkle's and Hecht's in 1950 Washington D.C. This site is the best I have found. Can anyone tell me the department store hours of operation?
ReplyDeleteI was living in d.c. in 1950 for s short time. my husband was in the service. We bought gifts in garfinckels for our families back home
DeleteI still have the paper angels from the Christmas wrapped gifts.
I was going through some items I had on my site and saw this site in realation to a search I did on Julius Garfinkle. As it happens I have a reciept from Feb 16, 1961 for $30.00 worth of clothes bought at the Washinton 4, D.C. store. What makes the reciept so speacial is who its from. Jakie Kennedy.
ReplyDeletehttp://hailtothechiefs.com/?product=jackie-kennedy-shopping-receipt
Fond memories of Garfinckel's. I was a Display Trimmer at the Hecht Co in the early 70's and knew all the trimmers inthe F Street area -- Lansburgh's, Jelleff's(?), Woodie's, Morton's, and Gerfinckel's -- we'd get together at lunch or after work and have a great time. Those were the days. In fact, for a while F Street was Pedestrian Traffic Only. I miss Neisner's 5&10 with their great "greenhouse" in the basement where you could buy all kinds of plants, and their main floor with all the framed pcitures of the presidents.
ReplyDeletei have some gold vermeil baby spoons from garfinkles they look really old. any info!!!
ReplyDeleteI have some letter's from 1944 by Miss Dorothy Jones, who was a Red Cross Clubmobile girl during WWII in Europe. According to one of the letters to her mother that I have, before joining the Red Cross, Miss Jones worked at Garfinkle's in the drafting room (I assume for store ads). She described "A Hungarian (naturalized) who spent 10 years in the Canal Zone" sits beside me", and a "tall, skinny Texan sits behind me". I don't know if Miss Jones returned to work at Garfinkle's after the war or not, but I thought you might be interested to know that a Garfinkle's employee served in England, France and Germany from mid-1944 through the end of 1945.
ReplyDeleteI was out of the Corps and married, back home in the South when I saw a news report on the 76 fire in Garfinckel's. A young former Marine I had known at HQMC was Security for the awesome department store and I watched him on TV reporting about the fire. His name was Alan Glass. The fire saddened me. I loved shopping there; bought a Marine Corps ball gown in 68 from there, shoes, evening bag, stockings — still have them and still use the evening bag. The velvet gown I've long past being able to crunch myself into-but it's still majestic. Often wondered where Glass might be.
ReplyDeleteI started a Christmas tradition of buying 3 tree ornaments from their open stock in 1967. Still have the JG boxes (some are actually small hat boxes) and the ornaments. They are the foundation of a large collection I have accumulated over the past 45 years. Our family shopped mainly at the 7 corners store since we lived out that way. By the way, Woodies was on the other side of the shopping center.
ReplyDeleteI remember the wonderful JG gift wrapping service (no matter how small the purchase!) and the blue and gold boxes with the glittery stretch gold "ribbons" they used around Christmas. I also recall the boxes changing each year with different combinations of blue, gold and white. Can anyone post pictures of those boxes and ribbons, please? They are legendary in our family and I don"t have a single one left to show people when I tell the JG stories. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI worked at Garfinckel F. Street Store in the Alterations Department and at the Georgetown Park Mall store. I have real Amarican History stories about working at this store in the 80's!
ReplyDeleteHi, I worked at Tysons Corner and the Georgetown Garfinkel's from 1984-1986. I sold shoes and my supervisor was Marty Lisko.
DeleteMy mom, Mary Roman, worked in cosmetics Dept then. I bought shoes from you.
DeleteI worked with your mother, Mary Roman, at Tyson’s Corner. I was the department manager for Ladies coats and suits. She was the best salesperson with excellent customer service!
DeleteI worked with Mary Roman at Tyson’s Corner! I was manager of Ladies coats and suits and she was the best and most professional sales person with excellent customer service skills. I loved Garfinckels and worked there from 1979 to 1985. They had a very good management training program. I worked at F street, Tyson’s Corner and Seven Corners. Great memories of a classy store and personnel!
DeleteLisa Casey? Is thus the same Lisa Casey I knew from Seven Corners in 1982-1983? I was manager of lingerie, then cosmetics there at the time and I fondly remember a Lisa Casey! Mrs Palethorp was the manager and Tracey Cahoon as asst. What great memories of many friends I met- other managers and of course my sales ladies in both departments.
DeleteCarol Zimmer
have some coins,if interested ,just a couple diferent sizes & numbers[E]mail pchickpm@aol.com for sale
ReplyDeleteI remember going to 7 Corners regularly as a young child with my mom and grandma. My grandma would be rolling over in her grave if she saw what took the place of Woodies, Lord and Taylor (was across the street) and Garfinkel's.
ReplyDeleteThe first thing I did when my husband and I moved to Annandale in 1972 was to apply for a Washington Shopping Plate. I loved shopping at Garfinkel's, Lord & Taylor & Woodies at 7 corners. The wonderful quality of the clothes, shoes, etc were outstanding. Garfinkel's was my favorite. I will always remember Mrs Thompson in the women's department. I, too, still have several Garfinkel's boxes. The Christmas department was oh so lovely, along with the elegant gift wrapping.
ReplyDeleteI just found this site after it was mentioned in an article in the Baltimore Sun......I worked for Garfinckel's from 1970 thru its closing in the early nineties......as a buyer, manager of stores and merchandise manager of several divisions, I was retained by the court to reorganize or close after its bankruptcy declaration....it was a wonderful store, and nothing has moved in to fill the gap it left......as a child my father would take me shopping on our annual christmas buy for mother, sending me home in a taxi after lunch in their tea room.....I still have my baby clothes and his evening scarves which bear the label, Julius Garfinckel & Co, Washington- Paris....I'm sorry that I was born too late to have met Mr. Garfinckel, who greeted his customers at the door, daily, as guests to his store....Miss Elizabeth Farrell, who was his "right hand" was awarded the French Legion of Honor Medal by the French government after the war, for bringing French fashion to the United States...it hung proudly in our executive offices until closing....great customers, great memories, good friendships with fellow employees...many I still retain...JAS
ReplyDeleteWow!! Great stuff reading these coments. Spent over Twenty years there in Mgt., Wonderful folks , was like a family. Many of the ex's still around the Country. High Class all the way.
ReplyDeleteI just purchased a beautiful black wool Jacket with mink collar & cuffs ! The jacket has the "Garfinckel's" tag & another inside left tag "Gary Keehn" I was wondering what might be the age of the jacket? It is in perfect condition!!!!!!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteThe first piece of clothing I ever bought for myself with my own money was at the Garfickel's in Springfield Mall in 1978. It was a pastel plaid blouse. I don't remember how much it cost, but I wore it for years. I was fourteen. That store was filled with beautiful things. All of Springfield Mall has been demolished now and is being remodeled (2014).
ReplyDeleteI absolutely loved Garfinkel's too! I was a teenager in the 1980s and used to go their to buy my mom Giorgio perfume for Christmas. I bought my first Izod Lacoste shirt there also, and also some Christian Dior loafers there. I had my first date at Springfield Mall, and we met at Garfinkel's. My date said, "Let's meet at Garfinkel's." It was such a classy move, and set the perfect tone for our date. Ever since, until Garfinkel's closed, I would arrange to meet dates and friends there. It was so elegant and classy. The new Springfield Mall is now open, but it's not the same without Garfinkel's. Thanks for sharing. I miss that store.
DeleteWhat a great tribute to this wonderful store. In 1989 I moved to MD, and got a Garfinkle's gift certificate for a wedding shower gift. I remember going into the flagship store on F Street and falling in love with the beauty, grace and grandeur of the store and it's staff. I purchased my wedding day jewelry and my wedding night peignoir set there and was so sad that I only had that one opportunity to visit this location before they closed. The store at the Annapolis Mall just wasn't the same. That elevator with the operator, how old school and awesome was that? I think I still have my Garfinkle's charge card - I couldn't bear to throw it away!
ReplyDeleteI found a Julius Garfinkel & Co. velvet dress recently and I need help trying to date it. It is a four piece Velvet Cobalt Blue set. It has a Full Length Dress with Shoulder Straps and bust Line Collar, a Petticoat style top that buttons in back, a matching Belt and Hat with like netting on it (kinda looks like the hat Madeline Kahn wore in Young Frankenstein but a little smaller).
ReplyDeleteThanks in advance
RK
Sorry it buttons in the front.
ReplyDeleteI worked at Garfinckel's in 1987 in the Georgetown Park Mall as the 1st black cosmetics manager for Clinque Cosmectics. I had just moved to DC and got lost in Georgetown and fell in love with the area so I say to myself..I am going to get a job somewhere in Georgetown. I worked with the most wonderful group of women, Linda, Jackie, Tammy, Lupe and Carol (she worked in the fragrance department. I wish could make contact with those ladies!
ReplyDeleteI think my sister might be the Carol you worked with. Do you remember how she looked or last name?
DeleteI worked at the F street location for many years.. To the person who inquired about the monogramming.. yes, they did monogram nearly anything from bathrobes to wallets. In regard to the hours, they were very civilized. We were never open on sunday ( with the exception of possibly before Christmas), we closed at 6:00 weekdays with the exception of some mondays and thursdays ( we closed at 7:00 or 8:00). This changed during august, when most of Washington was "out of town". The staff was in itself exciting. I worked with a woman who was one of the first "Rockettes"-Mrs. Gladys Pierce. She was also a "Busby Berkley Girl", appearing in the movie "Top Hat" and others.. Many of my co-workers had a "story" to tell.
ReplyDeleteIt was an exciting and wonderful time..And I met many fantastic customers..
Regards, Richard Ransom Beman
I am looking for any link to my past. My godmother Marion Dennys or Grace Nickels worked at the mass Ave location. Any contact info to find any family please email startswithacapital@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteI came from Germany in 1968, Worked for Heudorf und Steinle, Fur and Fashion, in Wiesbaden; when ever I got homesick I would go to the Garfinckel Department store, in the Montgomery Mall, it reminded me so much of Europe, always found a helpful clerk with knowledge . I would wander around the store for hours, till I had to pick up the Children from school. I also miss the flair and quality, I like to keep my garments a little longer than from one wash to the next.
ReplyDeletewould catch the bus around Garfinckels every morning while on the way to Mackin early 60's
ReplyDeleteI came across Garfinckel's while doing some family history research. It seems that an ancestor of mine, Hilda Howells, moved to Washington DC from England in 1930. She met and married Samuel Miltz, who was a tailor at the Garfinckel's department store some time in the 1930's. I believe Hilda also worked at Garfinckel's at some time. I wonder if any archive staff records still exist from that period?.. I know it's a LONG time ago, but you never know! g.howells1957@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteGarfinkles was always the 'best of everything'. When I discovered it was closing, I hurried and bought several of their last beaded Xmas ornaments so as to admire and remember Garfinkles!
ReplyDeleteI was fresh out of the Marine Corps and worked as a security manager at most all of the big dept stores in DC. I was one of the security mgrs at the Mont. Mall store in the beginning, which was around the early 70’s. I was promoted to mgr of delievery and gift wrapping, but didn’t like it, and went back on the floor at the F St. store in security. Harry Wood was the security manager from what I remember, and Helen Zinn was his asst. Mr. Tipton, a retired Air Force type was manager over them. We sure cleaned up the professional shoplifters there, but they never learned and always took another chance by trying us again. I worked with a couple others who’s names I can’t remember, but I did work with an older guy by the name of Robert, and was told that he had a problem and left.
ReplyDeleteMy mom also worked there before I was born, and I believe she said the silverware dept.
Hope this email goes through, and would like to hear from you. I was just surfing and found your comments on The Dept. Store Museum.
I ended up in law enforcement, but left to start my own lock and security company and ended up providing services to Dulles Airport, Nat. Archives, U.S. Courthouse, and the Carter Baron Amp Theater. Those were the good days, but now have slowed down quite a bit.
Give me a shout, would love to talk about the “good ole days” at Garfinckel’s.
Tom Lucas
www.kw-lock.com
Robert Sanders was the detective's name. He was terminated due to defalcation by Helen Zinn. I worked for Mrs. Zinn. She treated me well. Col. Wood was a VP and Mrs. Zinn reported to him. He was retired military but had no clue about anything. He created part of the Sander's problem by not listening to me because I was in my mid twenties at the time. When things occurred as predicted, he was shocked. No one else was.
DeleteHarry Wood was the name I remember, and he was a bit older than I was, but I don't remember him as a retired Col? Mr. Tipton was a retired AF Major if I remember it correctly. I may be wrong, but that's what I remember. Ms Zinn was Harry's asst mgr. She always treated me with respect and her southern charm. Would love to run into them again.
DeleteThe Garfinckels in Montgomery Mall personified wealthy suburban shopping in the late 60's and throughout the 70's. Clothes were not on racks but in drawers and you needed the assistance of a sales person to show you what you were looking for. The Montgomery Mall location was the largest and by far the classiest of all the suburban locations.
ReplyDeleteSadly the retail markets have all gone to rack sales, Garfinkles, Lord & Taylor and the others. Quality assurance and service with a bit of class is only a distant memory now. It is nice to have been a part of it, but it is history.
ReplyDeletei HAVE OLD GARFINCKELS CHRISTMAS SHOPPING BAGS 1988 INTERESTED? REGGAEFOUND@YAHOO.COM
ReplyDeleteI have 1988 Garfinckels Christmas Bags interested? reggaefound@yahoo.com
ReplyDeleteIn 1980, I was the co-copywriter in Garfinckel's in-house advertising dept. at the flagship location under Gloria Kreisman. Gloria ran a very tight ship; if a typo got past the dept. in proofing ads, we were warned that we would be immediately fired--no questions asked. The ads were beautiful and featured hand-drawn art by some of the most talented illustrators of the time. A creative director named Wendy made sure that the ads and all sales pieces were distinctive--she was brilliant. As was the copy chief with whom I worked--Mary Anne Elliott.
ReplyDeleteThe merchandise was also brilliant and enviable, carefully selected from around the world by buyers with impeccable taste.
Staff was expected to dress in a manner that was consistent with the upper-class clientele the store attracted. Even in Washington's sweltering summers, no bare legs or ankles were permitted. Staff were required to wear nylons (or dress socks if wearing slacks). A pair of flip-flops worn to work in those days would probably have resulted in immediate dismissal, too! The advertising dept. had windows with a view of the Monument and the falling-down Willard Hotel--it would be years before renovation turned the W. into its original grandeur. I viewed it daily as a pigeon roost.
As a mere copywriter and pretty far down on the food chain at G.'s, I placed all my energy into writing copy that would be approved for the big half-page ads that ran in the Post or the now-defunct Washington Star. My claim to fame was writing a large ad featuring a very, very expensive bridal gown--a gown that was also displayed in the famous corner window of Garfinckel's. The nicest people on staff at G.'s were the talented seamstresses in the alterations dept. As I was a petite size who made good use of the employee discount, I requested their handiwork often and got to know many of them well enough to have the occasional chat. One day I dropped in and saw them working on the gown I wrote about and was delighted that it had sold so quickly (I remember it as having a huge price tag). When I exclaimed that "somebody bought this already," the ladies laughed like crazy. Turns out that they were sewing in break-away seams so that Washington, D.C.'s most famous stripper could incorporate the gown into her act!
As a Washingtonian Garfinkles was part of our quality of life! Thanks for your very interesting message. It makes me wonder if you were the one responsible for making 'Garfinkle' into a verb? I remember when they first started their question "have you Garfinkled?", I heard it while driving, and couldn't stop laughing !! I was a designer with Lord & Taylor, Garfinkles was top news that day. Thanks for the memories! Dennis Cory
ReplyDeleteI received a present from my friend of a Pearl ring that has two diamonds on either side of it in a Grafinckel's ring box. It is so beautiful and fits me perfectly. I feel so lucky! My friend was cleaning out her aunt's apartments in Washington, DC. The aunts had lived there over the past 78 years. She also gifted me over 30 vintage purses. What a treasure!
ReplyDeleteI have a set of twelve (12) drinking glasses from Garfinckel's that were purchased in the late 1970's and have been stored in a china cabinet since that time. Each glass is clear and depicts townhouses in Georgetown painted on the outer surface in red, white and black. Each also has the Garfinckle's name on it, is 4" tall and holds 14 oz. of liquid.
ReplyDeleteI am going to list them on eBay, but would rather have them go to a local Garfinckle's enthusiast if there is someone who wants to buy them. Send me your email address to nanajudith@gmail.com and I will reply with photos.
How amazing to find this blog! I lived near the Springfield Mall Garfinkel's and went their throughout my life. I had my first date at 15 at Garfinkel's! How I remember the girl I went out with asking me if we could meet there. It was such an elegant and classy location. I made it a point to always meet friends and dates at Garfinkel's as it was such an elegant place. Perfect to set the right tone for a meeting! When I started working as a teenager (1980s(, I went there and bought my first dress shirts and ties (Christian Dior), and in the spring purchased my first Izod-Lacoste shirts! I also used to buy my Mom Giorigio perfume there! When Garfinkel's closed in the early 1990S, I was truly sad and grieved the loss of this store. It was more than just a store to me. It was a place where many important events in my life played out. I've not found another store with the personal style of Garfinkel's. It truly was a Washington institution.
ReplyDeleteI have a fascinator which is trimmed in mink and a satin bow. The veil is torn but otherwise it is in very good condition. It has the Julius Garfinckel & Co Washington label in it. I believe it's from the '40's or '50's. If anyone is interested in purchasing it please email me donna_rae@sympatico.ca and I will provide a photo.
ReplyDeleteYour nostalgia about the first date at Garfinkles, brings back clear scenes of the main store and several branches including Springfield! Thanks for reminding me. On my shelves I have a elegant Xmas ornament, bought the Spring Valley branch closing, it happily says we always Garfinkled at Christmas time.
ReplyDeleteMy dad worked at Garfinckel's from 1952 - 1981, first in the Boys' and Young Men's Department, and later as assistant buyer for the Men's Department. One of earliest memories was when he took me and my mother to the rooftop which overlooked the White House. President Kennedy was in office then, and I watched and watched hoping to catch a glimpse of him or one of his family. Whenever we went into Washington, we had to dress up, I wore a jacket and tie, and my mother wore a hat and gloves, even in the summertime. I met and knew everyone my dad worked with, they were all wonderful professional people, always so kind to a young boy. Many of the names of those who worked at Garfinckel's mentioned in the previous comments are ones I am familiar with, and it has brought back many fond memories reading this. I too have many old blue and gold gift boxes and even a few of the gold top boxes used at Christmastime. There are no stores today that have the class that Garfinckel's had.
ReplyDeleteIn the early '70s my sister and I got caught in a sudden storm outside of the downtown Garfinkel's store. We went inside dripping wet, and I remember feeling awkward walking into that pretty place looking like that. We went in the ladies room, where there was a bird cage with (I think) parrots. A woman was combing her wet fur coat. I was a kid then, but I shopped there many times as an adult, but the by then the bird cage was gone.
ReplyDeleteI first worked at Garfinckel's (Spring Valley 1983-1988) when I was 19. I worked in various departments, our store managers were Joan Carl then Jane Ann Simpson. My Mother also worked there in 1960 until she became pregnant with me, then rejoined the company at Montgomery Mall when I became 18. It was a very special experience for me. My co-workers were very down to earth and really liked to be helpful to others. I knew retail wasn't going to be my long term life but my time there will never be forgotten!
ReplyDeleteHi David. I remember you! My name is Alice and I worked in the cosmetics department when you were there at Spring Valley. Good times and memories working at that time. They were the best employer I ever had until their last year or so when they crashed and burned. Hope you are well.
DeleteGarfinkle is always a beautiful name to me. I shopped downtown and all the branches. I have two heirloom reminders now: Belleek teacup/saucer that I gave as a mother's day gift, and now have inherited. Tea from that delicate cup is wonderful. And an Xmas tree elegant beaded ornament, purchased at the closing sale of Spring Valley. Always happy memories of Garfinkles!
ReplyDeleteI have 16 Julius Gafinckel & co gift coins. What were they used for
ReplyDeleteI have a green hat in the box. on the box is juslius garfinckle& co. Washington d. c. would like to know how old and worth. judy
ReplyDeleteI worked at the Spring Valley store in the early 80's (5yrs), I had previously worked part time at Mont. Mall. I worked in the shoe dept. I loved Spring Valley! I met many great people who I remained close to for years. I ended up managing the accessories dept at the F St store(after a few years on the Raleighs side). Sadly I was there until the bitter end. I still have a beautiful mink coat I purchased while working there, with its beautiful label.I met many famous celebrities while working there, both at the Sp. Valley store & F St., most memorably was Shirley Temple Black, who couldn't have nicer. Good memories. My mother use to say it was the best finishing shcool money could buy (and it didn't cost her anything)!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the memories.
ReplyDeleteAs a young girl in high school, I worked at the JG at Seven Corners, Va store in the silver, fine china and linen departments. It was one of my most happiest experiences in employment. The store was wonderful, selling expensive, beautiful silver and china was a wonder. As i worked off of hourly plus commission, during the holidays I brought home a pretty good paycheck. I'm now 72 and still look upon that experience with a lot of love.
ReplyDeleteThanks for that nice coment - sharing your experiences and giving readers a glimpse into the life of this fine store.
ReplyDelete- Bruce
During a day of shopping on a Saturday prior to Christmas in the late 70's or early 80's, we stepped off one of the elevators onto one of the upper floors at F Street. After stepping onto the floor, we heard spontaneous uncontrolled laughter. We turned around and saw that someone had shimmied all the clothes on a display of female mannequins to waist level.
ReplyDeleteThere was also a tiny store inside the Shoreham Hotel.
A feature which impressed me at the F Street Garfinckle's was the plumbing and ventilation was mostly hidden from view. At some of the other downtown DC stores the ceiling was a mass of pipes and ventilation ducts, much like Walmart stores of today. I suppose some of the exposure at the other stores was due to the age of the buildings, the addition of air conditioning etc. I've always wondered if the F Street Garfinckle's was designed this way or if the pipes and ducts were hidden during a renovation.
ReplyDeleteMy Dad ran the silver dept at the main store from 1931 - 34. We still have the sterling water pitcher inscribed to my parents on their Wedding Day (June 19, 1934) from Julius Garfinckel and a letter of recommendation from Mr Garfinckel for my Dad's Army enlistment.
ReplyDeleteI worked at Garfinckel's Montgomery Mall one Christmas season, in the evenings between college semesters. My shift was 6-9PM on top of my 10-6 slot at Hecht's just down the hall. Even after a full day, I was always energized to step into the elegance that was Garfinckel's and help the real pros in the men's dept. I had also worked one summer break in security, checking in employees. I can relate to the Christmas ornaments note. I too, bought many as gifts for my parents and they now adorn my Christmas tree. I still have a brass set of fireplace implements that I had given my folks--now deceased. And I also have two of my dad's cashmere scotch plaid scarfs that I bought many Christmas'ago for him--also with the Garfinckel's tag still attached. The Waterford crystal beckoned me a few times as gifts for my mom. I think I liked the crisp, satin shine of the ivory gift wrapping as much as the Irish green ribbon that was to always adorn those wonderful Waterford pieces. Class indeed and I lament the store's passing. It was an era we'll not see again, but I'm grateful for the memories. Thanks all.
ReplyDeleteI concur, as I believe at the time I worked in security, that employees had a 33.3 discount, so my my folks gave me cash to purchase things I needed on Christmas and my birthday. I still have some beautiful things purchased there. Thanks for the memories.
ReplyDeleteI started at Garfinkel’s as a management training associate after graduating college in 1980. I remember Mrs Ozer in the HR department hired me. I worked along side many wonderful trainees- like Lisa, Penny, Kim, Brigette, and Cindy. I started out in the Junior dept as second asst. buyer, then moved to Dresses as asst buyer (under the wonderful Amy Datt!) with Mrs Britt and Mrs Hunt. These women knew how to treat their customers! Then I moved to Seven Corners as manager of the lingerie department with lovely ladies like Alfie. Then finally became the cosmetic buyer/manager with an amazing group- Marilyn, Debbie, Collette, Vinnie, Iona, (wish I could remember all of their names because they were so special to me!). The store manager was Mrs. Palthorp and the asst manager was Tracy Cahoon - both amazing retailers. I sadly left Garfinkels in 1984 to come home to Michigan, but I have kept it in my heart all these years. I often wonder about these terrific people and know they also must think back on our time at Garfinkel’s with fondness and a bit of sadness for a gem lost. If any of you are out there, I hope you are well! Much love- Carol (Purdy) Zimmer (associate 1980-1984)
ReplyDeleteHi all. I was a store detective at the Mont Mall store around 1969 or 1970. I had worked as the security manager for Hechts at Silver Spring, P.G. Plaza, and Mont Mall stores before taking the job at Garfinckel's. Mr Frost and Mr Tipton liked me and I was promoted to the F St main store, where after a few months I was made delivery and gift wrap mgr. I did like it and went back into security and worked with Helen Zinn and Harry Wood. Robert was another detective I worked with. After some time I ended up going into law enforcement in Montgomery County Maryland. I remember the good ole days like it was yesterday.
ReplyDeleteOn the above comment it should have said, "I didn't like being a mgr for gift wrap & delivery." They were were great people to work with, but my heart was in security/law enforcement.
ReplyDeleteAny of the former Garfinkles team remember remember Lilly SHEFLAN? She worked at the NYC store. I believe she was in fine linens and china. She traveled europe annually on buying trips. We lived outside of Washington DC when I was a boy in the early sixtys. My brothers and I would take the city bus to the DC store and she would take us out to eat and spoil us. She was my fathers cousin but we always called her "Aunt Lil". She was our Auntie Mame.
ReplyDeleteMost of those that might have known her arelong gone most likely. She worked for the store for fourty years, lived in downtown NYC and never drove or owned a car.
I worked in the distribution center in Landover. I was 18 years old. My sister worked in the store and then moved to the distribution center. I have found memories of the store in Landover Mall as little girl, then working in the gift wrap department with my sister Carol and a true gift wrapping pioneer Ms.Debbie at the distribution center. I loved the navy boxes with gold writing, and the mink teddy bear. Does anyone remember when that came out one Christmas? Also.my sister had a beautiful.taupe brown sweater with rabbit fur patches. It was the most beautiful sweater. I believe she still has it to this day. Later in the 80's I actually worked for Crate & Barrel and helped open the Spring Valley store after Garfinckels. Those of us who were from Maryland, DC, VA were enamored with being in the historical site. It was so impressive. This is a wonderful blog, I'm so glad I found it.
ReplyDeleteI first worked for Garfinckel's in 1983 as security for the Givenchy exhibition which led to a job working the employee entrance at the F st store and eventually store security. My mother, Jacqueline Grimes, was the manager of the 3rd floor designer department, as well as the Sunday manager for the Georgetown location. I have many fond memories of the great people I met, and the experience of working at one of the finest stores there ever was.
ReplyDeleteHey Henry, I was a mgr of security for the branch stores, as it was something they were experimenting in the early 70's. I was hired on and started at Mont Mall, and then promoted to the F St store where Harry Wood was the security mgr, Helen Zinn was the asst., and James Tipton was the opns mgr. I was promoted again to gift wrap/delivery mgr., but opted to return to the floor as a security officer. I carried three shields from DC, MD, and VA at the time. I eventually ended up in Mont County in law enforcement and then went into my own security and hardware sales and service business. I love going back in time and talking with friends that were in the stores I served.
DeleteMy two beautiful aunts where fashion buyers for GG in the 1920s and 1930s. We still have a few bits of clothing and some wonderful advertisements. It was an exciting time for them. They were raised Victorian and they knew how to be ladies. Fortunately I haven’t had to carry that into my life...
ReplyDeleteAlways loved the store on F street -- my mother would give me some money to shop there in the 1960's and 70's. A relative worked there in the 1920's and 1930's and I have a letter to her indicating she, like other employees, received $1,000 from the will of Mr. Garfinckel as he left part of his estate to his employees -- does anyone else have that letter -- is anyone collecting them?
DeleteI remember during the late 60's when my mom would take me to Garfinckels for lunch and a special day of shopping at 7 Corners. It felt like such a special place and I still have her hat boxes and hats from back then. I was going to sell them until I came across this blog, now I will keep them for the memories!
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone remember the ladies room at Garfinkels? There were, inexplicably, two live parrots, not in cages, they were "handcuffed" to tree branches in an open display. Looked around for a sign, or a plaque to indicate the origin or an explanation. Nothing there. That was 1976.
ReplyDeleteMany years later when my boss mentioned that her grandmother had been an attendant I asked her if she would have ever heard, it was a no. But we talked a good long time about the long-ago service of a ladies washroom attendant. The washroom was always luxury plush, nice leather seating and small tables, gorgeous mirrors and light fixtures, hanging pendants and sconces. There was a small tray for tips for the uniformed attendant who was friendly but reserved. Too bad missed it, I could have asked about the parrots.
My Goodness, Garfinkels sure brings back wonderful memories of yesteryear! My beautiful Mom and I would go to Springfield Mall to shop at Garfinkels at least once per week. It was my Mom's favorite store! I think all the sales personnel know us - LOL! Garfinkel's had the most beautiful clothes that last forever. I remember I purchased a jacket from St. Gillian that was my absolute favorite - it was aqua/taupe/silver. The "F" Street Store was fabulous but overwhelming - so many floors and not enough time! I miss that wonderful store so much!
ReplyDeleteI worked at the seven corners store in 1970 and 1971. One funny memory was at Christmas time when a woman and her son came in to purchase some Hadley cashmere sweaters. When I went to ring her up, her credit card belonged to Paul Mellon. I knew enough to question that and called the credit department. I was told that Mr Mellon gave all his employees a credit card. I loved Garfinkels and my time there!!!
ReplyDeleteLisa!!!
DeleteI hope this is the Lisa I remember! I was the manager of lingerie, then cosmetics at the F street store! Then moved back to Michigan.
How are you? Still in the DC area?
Carol Zimmer
Carol and Lisa! I have a question for you. I only visited Garfinckel's in 1973, on my junior high class trip to Washington DC. The effect upon entering the store from the street was overwhelming; it's something that you can't find anywhere anymore. I have always been puzzled by something since that day, though. I remember seeing something on the street floor that I recall being called the "Gregorian Candle Salon" or similar, perhaps near stationery perhaps. I may be wrong, but the memory has stuck with me. Do you have any recollection of anything like that? The store was so flat-out palatial, elegant, and dignified that it would seem to fit. However, though, I realize that memories can be false in many cases.
DeleteI am also from Michigan, Carole and live in Rochester Hills. Jacobson's was probably the closest thing we had to Garfinckel's here. That's why I wrote a book about it; but I don't think the likes of Jackie Kennedy ever strolled Jake's aisles!
Thanks!
-Bruce Kopytek
(Lowercase) (first initial) (last name) (at) (comcast) (dot) (net)
(not wise to literally post email addresses here)
I’m sorry, Bruce. I don’t recall that but would not be surprised. What a gem Garfinkel’s was and yes, Jacobsons was the nearest thing Michigan had to it. It’s sad that both are but wonderful memories now.
DeleteI'0m trying to find out the worth of my fur shawl and cap. Can anyone help me with this?
ReplyDeleteAny former employees have pension information? Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI worked as a model when I was 16 in 1964 at the 14th and F Street store, and my mother was the store detective. Everything in the store was beatiful and it is a happy memory.
ReplyDeleteI worked for a department manager/VP and then toward the end human resources. This was 1986-1990. We were located on the 8th floor at the 14th & F street flagship store. All of the executive offices were on the 8th floor including Mr. Kelly, the last CEO. The personal shoppers were also up there. I was there when we closed the store. So sad. I could write a book. It was the most interesting job I have ever had and I loved working in that location near the Treasury Department, the Willard, the White House, and Galt Jewelers right around the corner. The employees ate in a cafeteria with delicious, home-cooked food. Almost every day, I met interesting people on the elevator. Hosni Mubarek and his entourage, and plenty of octogenarians who bought their prom dresses there way back when. Lots of incredible memories.
ReplyDeleteTracy Cahoon hired me to work at the Montgomery Mall store in Feb ‘78. I started selling Men’s shirts, sportswear, and later moved to Security. I met a gorgeous blond who was working in Juniors and we started dating. She was the first part-time employee to get the Professional Seller’s Award. She later worked in Better Dresses and finally the Clinique counter. She worked there a total of 7 years, putting herself through college.
ReplyDeleteWe made lots of friends there: Scheina, Cacy, Madeline, Gloria, Tutti...
And that gorgeous blonde? We’ve now been married 37 years.
-Ian B. (ib25v@hotmail.com)
I found a silver coffee dispenser, never used, in original box it's beautiful. anyone know about this?
ReplyDelete