A Sweet Celebration Filled with Memories for Aigner Chocolates’ 90th Anniversary

By Michael Perlman

It is proven that what is homemade and from the heart is a recipe for success. Aigner Chocolates at 103-02 Metropolitan Avenue has achieved a milestone, which tells a story of a mom and pop shop that is a rare survivor, thanks to the long hours of dedication under past and current owners, creativity, personalization, and a humanitarian spirit where patrons and the community become an extended family. To celebrate 90 years in Forest Hills, a socially distanced ceremony was held in front of the shop on September 13, with speeches from generations of owners and nearly ten elected officials; some of whom presented proclamations. Gift bags with a commemorative “90” chocolate pop were distributed, and harpist Erin Hill performed standards. 

 

Guest speakers were Community Board 6 District Manager Frank Gulluscio, Congresswoman Grace Meng, Councilwoman Karen Koslowitz, Councilman Donovan Richards, NYS Senator Joseph Addabbo, NYS Senator John Liu, Assemblyman Ed Braunstein, and representatives of Queens BP Sharon Lee and Assemblyman Andrew Hevesi. It even included a Certificate of Recognition from Governor Andrew Cuomo. 

Congresswoman Grace Meng, who presented a proclamation said, “Representing the Sixth Congressional District, I hold up Aigner Chocolates for great recognition and honor on the 90th anniversary of its founding, and declare today to be ‘Aigner Chocolates Day!’” President and CEO Thomas Grech of the Queens Chamber of Commerce said, “If you work to support your family, such as a meat guy, bagel guy, or the chocolatier, you are an essential worker. Aigner employs 8 people, which is 8 rents and 8 kids to put through school. At the end of the day, we should value every single job, since the person that has it, is essential to their family.” 

Owners Mark Libertini and Rachel Kellner acquired the business in October 2015 and added a new chapter to the Aigner story. Back in 1930, Germany native and confectioner Alfred Krause opened Krause’s Candy Kitchen in a predominantly German community. Since 1960, three generations of the Aigner family satisfied the sweet tooth of patrons. It consisted of John Aigner, who began working at Krause’s in the 1950s after training in Austria and Germany, his son Peter and wife Pia, and then their son Chris. In 2009, the business was renamed Aigner Chocolates. Then in 2015, master confectioner Peter Aigner trained Kellner and Libertini, who continue to produce chocolates on museum-quality equipment from the 1940s and 1950s. 

Kellner explained that it was love at first sight for the shop’s history and felt honored to preserve a tradition. She said, “What we didn’t realize at that time was that we were being adopted by a community, so caring and involved. The friendships we’ve developed with our fellow business owners, neighbors, and customers were completely unexpected, and now we can’t imagine our lives without all of these amazing people.” She then explained, “My husband loves making chocolate and I love running a chocolate shop, but the passion and love wouldn’t be there if it wasn’t for all of you. This day is a celebration about community, because without this incredible community, we wouldn’t be here. To Mark, my partner in life and in business, you had a vision, and it allowed my vision of ‘food as therapy’ to become a realty in this beautiful business. You said our life would be an adventure. Babe, you were right!” Libertini said, “We are devoted to the art of creating beautiful and delicious chocolates using traditional family recipes and techniques. Our vision is to share our passion for the art of chocolate while making the world a better place.” 

Vintage photo of past owner Peter Aigner

Peter Aigner’s earliest memories date to his childhood. “We lived above the chocolate shop, when I was about 9 in 1960. When my parents were in bed, I would sneak downstairs into the store to help myself to half a dozen milk chocolate marshmallows and take it up to my room. As I grew up, my tastes mellowed to a little less sweet.” Chris Aigner continued, “I would sneak down early Saturday morning, before the store was open, and get a chocolate pop, and then go upstairs to my grandparents and watch cartoons with a glass of orange juice and chocolate pop.” Pia Aigner said, “I was so impressed how Americans loved chocolates, coming from a country where chocolate was so expensive, that people would buy one to two pieces. I came to America and they would buy it by the pound.” 

Pia Aigner, Chris Aigner, Mark Libertini, Rachel Kellner, Peter Aigner, Thomas Grech 

The Aigner family feels they made the perfect choice after interviewing Mark and Rachel. Peter said, “Very few businesses in New York manage to survive that long. Our customers were very loyal. We always maintained a high quality product, and Mark and Rachel are excellent heirs. They took it seriously and learned it from the ground up and continuing the tradition with the same recipes and manner that we ran it, but with a little more artistic flair, and we are very happy for them. Customers continue to have the high quality they’re accustomed to.” Chris continued, “Ninety years is three full generations of families that probably touched five generations of families that had chocolate in their homes on holidays and centered around it on their most intimate family moments. It is wonderful to be part of a business that touched so many lives.” Pia continued, “We are very happy that Mark and Rachel are continuing making chocolates at that location, and they’re doing it very well.” 

Peter, Mary, John & Grandpa Aigner

One must wonder if there are any life lessons from running a chocolate shop. Chris said, “Being in service, you’re in a very special position in the world. You can change people’s experiences. Being kind and treating them with respect and dignity regardless of how short your interaction is an important life lesson.” Peter agreed and said, “We have been taught by my parents and passed that on.” 

When seeing Mark and Rachel operating the business in 2020, it reminds Peter and Pia of their younger selves. He said, “We had a lot of people who wanted to buy the business, but their heart wasn’t really in it. When we came across Mark and Rachel, there was this enthusiasm, which we felt was very important. Mark loves making chocolates, and Rachel has excellent people skills! Those are two important ingredients, and it’s similar to the talents that my wife and I had.”

Chris Aigner served as the broker in the sale. “The first year was the tricky year, since my parents and Mark and Rachel worked together nearly every day. They wanted to learn the recipes well and make sure that the transition was seamless. Then they re-branded slightly and added artistic value to the products. It has been a great experience to see them grow and take the business to the next level.” Peter continued, “When you sell a family business that has been with you for three generations, it’s a bittersweet experience. On one hand, sad, but yet it’s very happy.”

His father is one of his largest inspirations. “I would go in with my dad since I was 5 years old. I first learned how to lay out cups for nutcrackers. I would spend almost every Saturday making chocolate. Since I was a very young boy, I wanted to be a chocolatier.” Peter continued, “My dad was an Austrian confectioner who taught me the trade from a very early age. No one will teach you like your own father! My parents worked for another confectioner, since it wasn’t easy to get your own business in Europe.”

Chocolate production has evolved tremendously, according to Peter. “It helped the small manufacturers like us a lot. When I was a kid, basically all of the machinery was developed for big factories, costing hundreds of thousands of dollars. Over the years, machinery was developed, geared towards smaller manufacturers. When I was a kid, every single piece had to be rolled, cut, and dipped by hand. Over the years, we invested in machinery that automatically cut and formed chocolate.” 

Peter & John Aigner

Chris shared a story that his parents would tell him. “My great-grandfather would help out. They had professional dippers who dipped piece by piece, all day long, and set the pieces onto wax paper, fill up the tray, and put it on a rack. They would produce a whole rack in a day’s work, whereas today we can do it in a few hours. After a day’s work, he squeezed into the cooling room to get a piece of chocolate, but knocked over an entire rack. As the dipper started to scream ‘My work, my work,’ the first thing out of his mouth was ‘It wasn’t me!’ You can really picture what it was like back then.” 

The Aigner family and Kellner and Libertini are humanitarians. The tradition of raffling off an over 3-foot chocolate Easter bunny named Harvey originated in the 1980s. Most recently, it was donated to Elmhurst Hospital, the “epicenter of the epicenter” during the pandemic. Chris recalled, “My maternal grandma passed away from Alzheimer’s, and when she was sick, we started a raffle with Harvey The Bunny and gave all the proceeds to a research foundation.”

Many notables once entered Aigner’s showroom. Peter said, “I remember my father used to enjoy seeing celebrities such as Ralph Bunche, Dale Carnegie, Geraldine Ferraro, and Louis Armstrong, as well as his sister. He wouldn’t eat any other chocolates, so she would later buy it for him and send it out to Hollywood.”

The Aigner family has much to be grateful for. Since much revolves around chocolates, Chris explained, “We were able to experience the holidays in a very special way. We were surrounded by Christmas the whole month of December, and the same with Easter and Thanksgiving.” Pia added, “I will always be thankful to our customer’s loyalty.” 

Owners Rachel Kellner & Mark Libertini with the NYPD, Photo by Michael Perlman

New Energy at Red Pipe Cafe - The Modern Mom & Pop Shop

By Michael Perlman

Cozy dining area of Red Pipe Cafe, Photo by Michael Perlman

Artist Akio Matsuyoshi catches up with owner Ofer Kertes, Photo by Michael Perlman

Enter Red Pipe Cafe, a charming, earthy, and unique Forest Hills destination at 71-60 Austin Street, and one is bound to make a friend, exercise their creativity, and socialize and relax while enticing their palates with kosher, organic, and vegan dishes and drinks. Dr. Rene Alkalay, now age 77, co-founded the business in 2014, and 3 months ago, co-owner Ofer Kertes, age 45, came on board, building upon the tradition with new foods and ingredients, an expanded kitchen, improved aesthetics, and an increase in events. Diverse plans will continue for a community that has become the Forest Hills-based owners’ extended family. 

Red Pipe Cafe facade, Photo by Michael Perlman

Owners Dr Rene Alkalay & Ofer Kertes, Photo by Michael Perlman

After a short-term hiatus, the popular live music while you dine concept featuring will make a comeback in January. Past favorite acts included husband-wife musical duo Lou & Marie Michaels’ Bach/Beatles/Bacharach. On 3-month rotations, 3 to 4 local artists display their paintings and photos on a rediscovered brick wall or a neutral painted backdrop, and gallery shows enable patrons to mingle with artists including Robin Amy Bass, a friend to many. Other attractions are Poetry Night on Tuesdays and Open Mic on Thursday evenings. A stand-up comedy feature is also being considered. 

Artist Robin Amy Bass alongside her paintings, Photo by Michael Perlman

“Our renovation has made a huge difference,” said Dr. Alkalay. He eyes necessities such as a delivery service, distributing take-out menus, as well as offering vegan catered parties, as long as the community comes forward. “We basically put in every nail with our own hands,” said Ofer, who was permitted by Dr. Alkalay to renovate it largely as he pleased.

Dr. Alkalay explained his commitment to a vegan lifestyle. “It is a fastest growing movement, and we are contributing to a better world by not destroying the environment or hurting people’s health. I think of us as the New York home of the organic vegan sandwich.” Furthermore, Red Pipe is one of a few cafes where patrons can find organic, vegan, gluten-free pastries.

His early adulthood influenced his artistic vision. “When I was younger, I would go to coffee houses in the Village and in Europe, which were really meeting places for the arts. You could hear at any given table a heated discussion on contemporary or classic art, music, and literature, so I wanted to create a place where community and the arts can come together. I love the idea that we are providing culture in our community, instead of just food. The arts and culture keep society sane, and if people don’t speak the same language, they find ways to communicate through the arts.” The combination has proven to be a novelty to for Queens. “People come in and just love the ambiance, and even if there is no event, the place develops an energy,” he continued.

Dr. Alkalay, who describes himself as not a highly competitive individual, said, “A few years ago, when we introduced live music, other places nearby began having it. There’s a whole difference between live musicians and piped-in music. I would hope that we are considered a pioneer, and more businesses will open and use our model.”

With much gratitude, he said, “Every day that I wake up, I am grateful to G-D for giving me this day. We are here to make the world a better place by giving a little more health, beauty, and compassion.” Dr. Alkalay’s talents include published books on meditation, Kabbalah, poetry, as well as playing guitar and singing, a sight locals are familiar with. 

Owner Ofer Kertes

Ofer draws upon culinary experiences since age 15. He perfected his skills in a culinary institute in Israel, was previously a coffee shop owner, and was an executive chef in high-end hotels. Just a short time ago, Red Pipe was his go-to spot, but he was destined to partner with Dr. Alkalay, who he has achieved much chemistry with. “My recipe for success is to be passionate and consistent by serving delicious, healthy food. It has become a joyful experience, where work became a pleasure and a hobby to serve the community, and it’s really nice working with musicians and artists. I was drawn to the vibe.” 

One of many new coffee mug designs, Photo by Michael Perlman

Ofer explained various new concepts. “People really like being served our coffee in a variety of colorful mugs, and we are also selling them. For every three bags of coffee purchased, you will get a free mug.” One of many slogans is “A happy home is made with love… Home is where the coffee,” which can be found on a sunshine and floral themed mug. 

Tabbouleh Bowl featuring hummus, chopped greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, carrots, walnuts & lemon olive oil vinaigrette

Coconut Yogurt Parfait, chocolate cranberry or mixed nuts

Ofer takes pride in a new line of soups. “Everyone is asking for our red bean soup, as well as our lentil and split pea soups and vegetable stew.” The bowls selection is another new feature, and includes a tabbouleh bowl, quinoa bowl, and oatmeal. Beverages are unique and diverse for Forest Hills. “Our turmeric latte is a huge success, the hot apple cider is really nice, and our coconut milk hot chocolate is a real treat. We will add a cold brew rack and the Siphon Brewing Method. It will be very interesting to look at, and we are working with Counter Culture Coffee, which is considered a very good brand.” 

Oatmeal bowl with apple, banana, peanut butter, cinnamon, agave

At least 4 varieties of Craft wines and beers have proven to be an attraction. “We decided to go out of the ordinary selection and promote more of the New York-based brewers, and we have received a good community response,” said Ofer.

The sandwich menu has also been revitalized. “Our grilled cheese sandwich, which uses cashew-based cheese, has become very popular. We are also serving vegan bacon and vegan pastrami, which is opening a variety of options.” The Metropolitan sandwich is another attraction, where hummus is served with Chipotle mayo, house slaw, olives, lettuce, tomato, and cucumber. 

The inviting counter, Photo by Michael Perlman

Small details that offer a personalized experience include a retractable storefront that encompasses a welcoming spirit and brings the outside in, the jovial staff, subdued lighting, and the new Red Pipe bulletin board with the popular “Word of The Day,” “Thought For The Day,” and “On This Day” features. It read, “Dec. 17, 1962: Beatles’ first British TV appearance.” “It becomes an art exhibit and we have people from the neighborhood who are maintaining it,” said Ofer. 

Red Pipe Cafe Community Bulletin Board, Photo by Michael Perlman

Many patrons have been “giving back.” He explained, “Every new customer is assigned with a certain position to create a sense of responsibility and community, and I am grateful for lots of help from community members in operating Red Pipe on a daily basis. Marina tests our brownies, Gary is the bulletin board manager, Scott is our coffee shop chauffeur, Charlie is the door bouncer, Lou is the shop consultant, and Marty is our cleaning inspector.” He then chuckled, “They become employees, and we end up having more employees than customers.” He continued, “I am grateful for the Forest Hills community and visitors who have been loyal and bring a sense of togetherness into our lives, and whether it’s the ambiance, the vibe, or the splendid staff, this is a key ingredient for success.”

Ofer shared simple pleasures amid high expectations. “Some people come in here, since they find it therapeutic and relaxing to have a conversation with me over a cup of coffee. In ten years, Red Pipe will hopefully have more branches in Queens, as long as we keep the same concept and not feel like a big corporation.”

Stoa Jewelry To Close on December 31st - Mourning The Loss of A Neighborhood Institution

Rena Monogenis, co-owner of Stoa Jewelry

We are saddened to report that Stoa Jewelry at 71-60 Austin St, one of Forest Hills' last old-time mom & pop shops is closing after 45 years on December 31st. This is the story of Rena Monogenis and Marie Sinanian, which I had the privilege of writing last March: http://www.foresthillstimes.com/view/full_story/22084561/article-Personalization-spans-generations-at-Stoa-Jewelry


The heart of Forest Hills can be found along Austin Street, which was once dotted with both simple and upscale mom and pop shops, reminiscent of a small town. Today, much has changed with the rise of some large corporations, often occupying a few storefronts, but the business district retains its Tudor village and Colonial charm. Nestled between that charm is a gem, where multi-generational patrons come upon a recessed flagstone entryway, sided by tastefully decorated window displays under a rustic wooden sign which reads, “Stoa Jewelry.”  

Enter Stoa at 71-60 Austin Street, and whether you are a longtime or new patron, you will be greeted with a smile and the amiable demeanor of business owners Marie Sinanian (founder) and Rena Monogenis. They have been giving their heart to the community for nearly 45 years, by offering custom-produced jewelry, as well as art from local artists.

Making our way inside, the rustic charm continues with wood and glass wall and counter displays of custom-made jewelry, high ceilings bearing accent lights on artwork, a rugged plaster wall finish, and wood plank floors. Classical music adds to the gallery ambiance.

Customization is a dominant aspect of Stoa’s mission. “We design every type of jewelry that can be worn, from looks that are classic to way out there,” said Monogenis.  Jewelry is hand-crafted in sterling silver or gold, among other materials. Jewelry was originally produced in the back of the shop, but now the owners sketch the designs by hand and it is custom-made off premise by local and international artists. She stated, “If you want cufflinks and you have the design, we can execute the design, but if you want us to design it, we can from scratch.” 

 A notable custom-made design is a sterling silver barbell pendant, where the weight actually fluctuates. A sculptor from Germany designed a universe-inspired abstract sphere comprised of sterling silver rings with a single gold bead. It collapses and expands, and can be worn as a bracelet. Monogenis added, “If you wanted to create your own family crest, you would tell us what elements are very important to your family, and then we would design it using symbols.”

Customers often refer local artists to Stoa, and the owners fulfill their mission to the community by selling their work, which ranges from classical to abstract. Currently, paintings from 3 local artists are being offered. Earnings are shared between Stoa and the artist.

Sinanian emigrated from Athens, Greece with her family in 1962, and settled in Forest Hills. Monogenis originated from Manhattan, and at age 8 in 1950, made a move to Forest Hills. Both are Forest Hills residents to this day. In 1968, Sinanian began working for her brother-in-law, who once owned Lorilil Jewelers on Continental Avenue. After learning the business first-hand, she took the initiative in 1972 to open her own jewelry shop on Austin Street, known as “A Bit Outre.” Monogenis, then an employee of Chemical Bank, decided to change her career path not long after befriending Sinanian. She took some jewelry design classes at the 92^nd street Y. Sharing a mutual vision, their friendship evolved into a business partnership, and on October 2, 1976, they welcomed their community to Stoa Jewelry.

It may be hard to grasp that the jewelry business was neither owner’s childhood dream, but now it is their niche. Monogenis who first envisioned being a clothing designer at an atelier at age 11, attributes part of their success to a balance between their work styles. “I work more from the heart, whereas Marie works more from the mind,” she stated. 

Stoa was originally situated somewhat west on Austin Street, in a portion of what is now Victoria’s Secret. Sinanian coined the business name due to the large recessed storefront’s configuration, which resembled a portico or arcade in Greek culture. Monogenis explained, “A stoa was an ancient structure that was long and narrow, had columns and a roof, and was the town center where markets and meetings took place and people would sit and think.”

When asked how she felt being one of the last Austin Street mom and pop shops, she responded, “I feel truly wonderful, and I must say that after all these years, we have been blessed with wonderful customers who have become friends.” She then reminisced about yesteryear’s well-known mom and pop shops in close proximity. They were Buster Brown Shoes, Homestead Gourmet Shop, Beau Brummel (clothing), Koch and Nord Delicacies, Horn & Hardart, Towne Shepherd (an influential hair salon), Thorn & Thistle (florist), Ina’s (millinery shop), and Madeline Begg, which she described as an exquisite dress shop owned by her neighbor.      

Throughout the years, Stoa’s clientele included notables such as Geraldine Ferraro, former professional tennis player Renée Richards, Dennis Hevesi, and judges. Within Stoa’s walls, countless memories are harbored relating to the relationship between the owners and patrons, on the basis of the character of the owners and that of which extends into their custom-made jewelry. This contributes to stories ranging from humorous to heart-warming. For example, a long-standing American craftswoman from Maine named Peggy Johnson, worked with Stoa to produce a sterling silver necklace with copper and stone accents, and dangling kitchen pots and utensils as a focal point. Monogenis explained, “A man came into our shop and purchased it for his wife. When he returned, he said the rest of his life won’t be the same, since he will never be able to give his wife another gift that she would enjoy as much.”

A heart-warming story followed. She explained, “We designed a necklace for a woman who is the mother of the bride, and based it on the dress she planned to wear at the wedding. She was thrilled, and thanked us with a photo of her outfit during the wedding.”

As for younger generations hoping to launch a jewelry and art business, Monogenis offered some pointers. “Follow your dream. If it is a true love, that will make your entire life a lot easier. Especially since we are in poor economic times, start small.” Referring to her experience, she added, “We could have expanded way back when, but we felt good with this size, which our customers helped accomplish. I don’t believe that success is measured strictly by money.”

On a Saturday afternoon, 10 year-old local patron Ian Fried and his mother engaged in conversation with Monogenis. He was impressed when he learned about Stoa’s custom-made mission. Some items reminded him about his recent interest in collecting antiques, but only time will tell if it will unfold into his niche. “It’s my first time here, and it’s a very artistic store,” he stated. His mother first shopped at Stoa in 1990, and now the younger generation is being introduced. Fried said, “I always pictured these pieces as old-fashioned items from the early to mid-industrial revolution, but now this has given me a whole new light on antiques and how they are made.”

Monogenis attests, “Customers over the years become the mamas, the papas, and an acquired family,” and added, “They know if they need a place to sit, rest, and socialize over coffee, they can come to us.” 

From Homes To Art Deco Shops, 63rd Dr, Rego Park, Spring 1949

Homes Yield to shops on 63rd Drive in Rego Park

By Historian Ron Marzlock, Queens Chronicle & Rego-Forest Preservation Council Blog contributor

From June 3, 2010 "I Have Often Walked" column

Art Deco shops which took the place of private homes on 63rd Drive between Booth and Saunders streets, in the spring of 1949.

In Rego Park, 63rd Drive was the shopping district that was never meant to be, but was in the end. It and 66th Avenue, formerly White Pot Road, are the two oldest roads in Rego Park, dating to Revolutionary War days. What’s now 63rd Drive, had been known as Remsen Lane, named for the family of Col. Jeromus Remsen, who won fame during the Revolution at the Battle of Long Island, also known as the Battle of Brooklyn. The patriots lost that 1776 melee, leaving the British in control of New York City for the rest of the conflict. The descendants of the Remsen family still owned property on 63rd Drive as late as 1900. 

There were 10 different Remsen streets, roads and avenues scattered throughout Queens until 1913, when the borough largely changed over to numbered streets. Remsen Place in Maspeth still exists.

When Rego Park was originally developed in 1925, 63rd Drive was planned to be a quiet residential street. A row of 10 homes was built on its west side between Booth and Saunders streets. The shopping district was on Eliot Avenue and Queens Boulevard. But it was announced as early as 1942 that the Queens Midtown Highway, later named the Long Island Expressway, would be coming directly through the spot where the stores were. Their destruction began in 1954. 

Anticipating the need for a replacement strip, Robert E. Hill, Inc. of the Bronx wisely bought the homes on 63rd Drive in 1947 to build stores in their place. One house that escaped, just visible on the left of this photo, was demolished later. The strip has been a major shopping mecca for Rego Park residents ever since. 

Buster Brown Shoes Closes in Forest Hills - The End of An Era

UPDATE: As of July 2010, the famed Buster Brown Shoes sign has been removed, restored, and displayed in an Austin St office, with our intervention.

We just learned that on May 11, 2010 at 11 AM at Buster Brown Shoes/Austin Shoes, 71-24 Austin St, Forest Hills, NY, there will be a bankruptcy auction by Richard B. Maltz of David R. Maltz & Co., Inc. The auction will feature: Infant/children shoes and sneakers (Buster Brown Brand), sandles, handbags/purses, rain coats, chairs, stools, display, etc.

In April 2010, Queens residents were disheartened to see one of the few remaining mom & pop shops in Forest Hills at 71-24 Austin St, shut its doors, and a For Rent sign being tacked into the classic Buster Brown Shoes sign. It was one of the oldest shops in existence in Forest Hills, being that it opened in the late 1940s, and is where generations have memories of their earliest shoe purchases. Buster Brown sold infant and children shoes, parochial shoes, orthopedic shoes, and even shoes for adults in midst of the majority of younger age shoes. Operator Lenny inherited the shop from his father. He recently retired, and although locals were hoping that he would be successful in finding another operator to carry on the tradition, he gave up hope. The sign's famed caricature was based on the Buster Brown and Tige comic strip characters.  

The role of Rego-Forest Preservation Council will be to ensure that the historic sign and any other vintage possessions within the shop will be rescued and not discarded, and a suitable home be found, so it can one day be on exhibit for all to see. That is our first priority.

Our flickr photoset, featuring close-ups of the historic signage: 

http://www.flickr.com/photos/8095451@N08/sets/72157617681208185/ 
 

1950s TV commercial featuring a Buster Brown Shoes jingle: 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pm4xH9unqzU 

General history & timeline of Buster Brown Shoes (chain), according to Brown Shoe Co:
http://www.brownshoe.com/history/

In 1878, a young man named George Warren Brown believed St. Louis could become a manufacturing center for the shoe industry. He invested his life savings and founded his own company to manufacture and sell shoes even though most shoe companies were located in the Northeast. Brown thought he could change the face of the industry and he was right - his company thrived. Today, Brown Shoe is a leading $2.4 billion consumer-driven footwear company with global, integrated operations, delighting consumers with a portfolio of compelling brands.

Many people mistakenly think Brown Shoe was named after the much-loved Buster Brown character. In fact, our Buster Brown shoe brand came 25 years later.

In 1904 at the "Meet Me In St. Louis" World's Fair, a young Brown Shoe executive met Buster Brown's creator, cartoonist Richard F. Outcault, and purchased the name from him. At the time, Buster Brown was a mischievous cartoon character, who, together with his dog Tige and sister Mary Jane, delighted children of all ages.

Brown Shoe made marketing history when it sent on the road a series of actors, each dressed as Buster and accompanied by a dog (Tige). They toured the entire country selling Buster Brown shoes as they performed in theaters, department stores and shoe stores. In those days, such a touring show generally brought out the whole town.

1878

Bryan, Brown & Company formed in St. Louis by George Warren Brown and his partners Alvin Bryan and Jerome Desnoyers.

1893

Company name changed to Brown Shoe Company.

1904

Rights to Buster Brown name purchased; Buster Brown brand introduced to public at the St. Louis World's Fair.

1904

Succession of actors, dressed like Buster Brown and accompanied by dogs, toured the country (1904-1930), playing to audiences in rented theaters, department stores and shoe stores.

1913

Brown Shoe Company listed on the New York Stock Exchange under stock ticker symbol BWS.

1925

George Warren Brown School of Social Work endowed at Washington University in St. Louis by G.W. Brown's widow.

1927

Naturalizer brand created.

1931

Connie brand created.

1940

LifeStride brand created.

1943

Smilin' Ed McConnell and his Buster Brown Gang debuted on the West Coast NBC radio network. In 1951, Smilin' Ed moved to television, where his show ran until 1954.

1951

Brown Shoe Company acquired Wohl Shoe Company, operator of 350 specialty stores and 800 shoe departments for many major department stores.

1952

Brown Shoe Company moved headquarters from 1600 Washington Avenue to Clayton, MO.

1954

Naturalizer Shoe Store, the first of several hundred stores to carry Naturalizer shoes, opened in Jamaica, NY. Regal Shoe Shops, with 110 locations, acquired by Brown Shoe.

1970-74

Cloth World, Eagle Rubber, Hedstrom, BottomHalf and Meis Department Stores bought by Brown Shoe. Juvenile and Recreational Products Companies Division formed.

1981

36-store Famous Footwear chain acquired.

1984

Brown Group International established.

1985-96

Brown Group begins decade-long strategic repositioning — non-footwear businesses sold, all domestic manufacturing plants closed.

1987

Acquisition of Pagoda Trading Company completed.

1991

Brown signs long-term license for Dr. Scholl's brand.

1999

Company changes its name back to Brown Shoe Company.

1999

Buster Brown & Co. is established as the Kids' Division of Brown Shoe.

1999

Naturalizer revitalizes its image. New product styling is geared to a younger, more fashion-conscious woman. And naturalizer.com launches.

2000

Brown Shoe acquires 26 store Mil-Mar chain and folds it into Famous Footwear.

2001

Naturalizer named "Brand of The Year" by Footwear News.

2002

Naturalizer celebrates 75 years.
Carlos by Carlos Santana brand launches.

2003

Brown Shoe awarded “Company of the Year”
by Footwear News.

2004

Buster Brown celebrates 100 years.

2005

Brown Shoe acquires Bennett Footwear Group, LLC (BFG). Adds Franco Sarto, Via Spiga, and
other brands.

2006

Naturalizer launches Naturalizer Signature luxury women’s shoes, available online and in select store locations.
Bennett Footwear Group integrated into Brown New York.

2007

Brown Shoe announced plans to open Naturalizer and Via Spiga stores in China.
Brown Shoe announced an agreement with Sam and Libby Edelman to invest in Edelman Shoe, Inc.

2008

Brown Shoe launched celebrity licensed footwear brands for: country music superstar Reba McEntire (Reba), music and entertainment superstar Fergie, and style and beauty expert Gretta Monahan (Gretta).
Brown Shoe announced plans to create interconnected footwear company in St. Louis headquarters.

Vanishing City: Alarming, But In Your Backyard!

Hats off to the production team of Vanishing City, a film which highlights dominant neighborhood controversies citywide, "told through the eyes of tenants, city planners, business owners, scholars, and politicians. We are facing alarming issues, which will only intensify if we don't develop a voice in our city's future:

1. Overdevelopment
2. Loss of our historic resources, which give our neighborhoods a culture & aesthetic beauty
3. The growing elimination of the middle class
4. Eminent domain abuse
5. Loss of small businesses

ALARMING?!?!

What made our city distinctive and unique for decades is disappearing, but it is still not too late for you to have a voice. To learn more about their mission, visit http://www.vanishingny.org/  and see the trailer. If you agree with the premise of the film, you can make a tax deductible donation. Their e-mail is vanishingny@gmail.com