Page:The Granite Monthly Volume 8.djvu/332

304 One of the best known and most popular boot and shoe dealers in Concord is Mr. William A. Thompson, now located in a superbly fitted store, No. 30 North Main Street, in Bailey's Block. Mr. Thompson's success in building up a large and successful trade is a prominent and pertinent illustration of what business push and natural energy will accomplish. He first started in the boot and shoe business in Concord in 1880, locating in the small store in the "Statesman " Building. He made close bargains in his purchases; and by judicious advertising, and dealing only in reliable goods that would stand the test of wear, he soon found his trade steadily increasing, and on many occasions found his store crowded with customers, so that it was almost impossible to do business with ease and comfort. With rare sagacity he made large purchases in certain specialties, and was enabled, by taking advantage of the condition of the market, to present his customers with good bargains, and at the same time reap a rich reward for himself. At last his business entirely outgrew the quarters he had occupied for about five years; and in August, 1885, he removed to the large and commodious store in Bailey's Block, four doors north, across Depot Street, from his original quarters. This was fitted up for his use in an elegant manner; furnished with shelves, counters, sofas, and all the needed accessories of a first-class retail boot and shoe emporium. It is safe to say that he now has one of the finest and best appointed stores of its kind in New England, where himself and his gentlemanly clerks are constantly engaged in "giving fits" to the pedal extremities of an appreciative public. His great success, and the rapid growth of his thriving business, are almost phenomenal. It is not a mushroom growth either, but is real, solid, and substantial, having its foundation in merit and reliability. "Thompson's shoe-store" is in very reality one of the established institutions of Concord, in which its citizens take a just and pardonable pride. It is one that would be a credit to any city in the country. The proprietor, though yet a young man, is thoroughly familiar with all the details of his business; and, having had a practical experience of over sixteen years in the business, he can, by a glance of the eye, tell a good article from an inferior one. Handling such large quantities of goods, he is enabled to buy "way down at bottom prices," and sell at the same, and all the while realize a handsome profit in the aggregate, though it be but small upon each bargain. He always keeps abreast of the times, and is prompt in securing all the latest styles and novelties; thus enabling him to meet the wants of all classes of customers, and retain their trade. He never permits a customer, who knows what he wants in the line of foot-gear, to go out of his store with his wants unsatisfied.

His shelves and counters contain all that is desirable or that can be asked for in any shoe-store in New England, from the heaviest brogan to the finest and most delicate kid. A repair department, in charge of skilled workmen, is also connected with this model establishment, making it complete and satisfactory in every respect. Mr. Thompson is a prominent member of the Independent Club, and, besides being an energetic and successful business-man, is a public-spirited, generous-hearted citizen. We are always glad to chronicle the deserved success of such self-made, enterprising men.