Edward Chapman

This is the oldest still existing independent business we have found!

1890…Edward Chapman opens his store...an outfitter for the pioneers of the Klondike Gold Rush.

In Vancouver it had just been made possible to receive water via pipes from the north shore, the first high school opened and the electric trolley cars system began its initial voyages from Granville through Union to Main St.

A gold rush can be lucrative for those so lucky...there was demand for silk handkerchiefs and hats from Japan, suede gloves from England. Fortunate gentlemen.

Ernest Rea –an immigrant from Ireland -begins his employment at the store in 1910. After the passing away of Edward Chapman, almost 30 years later, he purchases the controlling interest of the business. Ernest’s son David enters the picture and is still there now, over 65 years later.

In the 1950’s expansion of their success story begins...the first being a separate ladies store downtown, then a spot in the freshly opened Oakridge store and a new Granville and 10th location.

In 1990, One Hundred Years of Business were celebrated in conjunction with the Centenary Van Dusan Gardens.

Evolving from a purveyor of fine goods during the Gold Rush to a contemporary fashion destination in our current time is an enviable feat and we congratulate them!