Farewell to an Arlington Landmark, 1938-2016
The Public Shoe Store in Clarendon, one of the oldest long-term businesses in Arlington, closed its doors on February 27.
S. H. “Doc” Friedman, the store’s owner and a podiatrist by training, has finally decided to retire after 78 years in the business [Arlnow.com]. Specializing in comfort shoes and custom fitting, it is one of the rare specialty stores of its kind left in the area and will certainly be missed by its many long-time customers.
Letter to ‘Doc” Friedman from a loyal customer (click to enlarge)
“Doc” Friedman is donating the records of the Public Shoe Store, as well as the sign from the front of the store, to the Center for Local History at the Arlington Public Library.
In doing so, he is making sure that the Public Shoe Store’s place in the history of the community is preserved.
Did you know that the Center for Local History collects historical business records as well as the records of Arlington organizations?
These records help tell the story of the development of the community and provide unique testimony to the achievements of your business or organization. Placing these records in an archival repository helps assure that they will be preserved and become part of the community’s collective memory.
If you have business or organizational records you would like to donate, please contact the Center for Local History at 703-228-5966, or email localhistory@arlingtonva.us.
