A Tribute to the Forgotten Icon of Community Spirit
Doesn’t it seem like a lifetime ago, when we used to find joy in the simple things? The video below brings back the kind of nostalgia that wraps around you like a warm blanket, recounting the days of the once-vibrant TG&Y stores.
A Seedling of Hope Sprouted in 1936 American
How many of you remember the beginnings of TG&Y, rooted in Norman, Oklahoma? The formation of this beloved store was a testament to the spirit of collaboration and unity. Robin Tomlinson, Les Gosselin, and Raymond Young, three visionaries who met at a trade show in 1932, decided to pool their resources, birthing the first TG&Y outlet in 1936.
From Rural Beginnings to Urban Success
It’s interesting to note that TG&Y started small, in rural communities and small towns, gradually spreading its roots into urban centers and suburbs. By 1957, the chain had been bought by Butler Brothers of Chicago, but with 127 outlets to their name, TG&Y was a flourishing testament to a simple dream.
The Influence and Evolution of TG&Y
As the years passed, the TG&Y brand influenced others. Did you know David Green, a supervisor with TG&Y, went on to open his own chain, Hobby Lobby? As Jesus once said, “A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” Just as this light influenced others, TG&Y’s legacy lived on in other ventures.
A Bittersweet Farewell to Our Beloved TG&Y
Fast forward to 1980, and TG&Y was in the midst of change, transforming its outlets to resemble department stores. However, the turn of the century brought a close to this iconic chapter of our history. By 2002, all the TG&Y stores were closed.
I invite you to delve into this rich piece of history and take a walk down memory lane by watching the video below. Share it with others because we all need a little warmth from the past in our present.