This is certainly going to be a different holiday season.
Rather than spend our money elsewhere -we've decided to do as much of our shopping in Lewistown as possible.
To put that decision into perspective...
The nearest Walmart (been in one once) is 108.2 miles away in Great Falls.
The nearest Macy's (not in my lifetime) is 165.5 miles away in Bozeman.
The nearest Barneys is 748.5 miles away in Seattle.
And Bergdorf Goodman's 7th floor is 2,063.5 miles away in HEAVEN.
Lewistown has an amazing historic downtown.
Starting as a trading post in the late 1870's
it has been a center of commerce for surrounding communities since then.
Major downtown growth was driven by an influx of homesteaders
from the turn of the 20th century through the early 1920's.
At one time Lewistown had at least 6 full-service department stores downtown.
Plus a plethora of specialty shops that serviced all needs and wants.
That meant LOCAL residents could purchase almost anything they wanted
in Lewistown.
And if it wasn't on the floor -
LOCAL merchants custom ordered whatever was desired.
Through the late 80's our downtown continued to flourish.
Sadly in recent years the economy, the automobile,
and the nationalization of retail, have limited our local retail options.
Today many residents prefer to drive at least 100 miles -
or shop the internet rather than support our local retailers.
I love retail.
And fortunately I've been able to work for
AND shop some of the best stores worldwide.
But I also love Lewistown!
And therefore I feel it is my duty and responsibility to support it!
There are still quite a few stores left downtown.
And happily we've almost completed all our holiday shopping list
LOCALLY!
While I realize few of you will make the trip to rural Montana this holiday season.
Here's a short list of some of our favorite Lewistown shops and retailers.
And don't forget... THEY ALL WRAP YOUR GIFTS FOR FREE!
Country Junction
A lovely selection of gifts and home decor.
209 W. Main Street
406-538-8402
Don's Store
Your ultimate western store - boots, jeans, guns, and YOGO SAPHIRES.
102 2nd Avenue South
406-535-9408
http://www.dons-store.com/
Lewistown True Value
Visit "Toyland" downstairs and take a trip back in time.
301 W. Main Street
406-538-5902
The Connection
Shop a surprising collection of women's apparel and accessories.
318 W. Main Street
406-538-4405
Don't let the picture below fool you.
Our November has been beautiful -
high of 47 degrees today with snow on the mountains.
But no matter the weather...
PLEASE HOLIDAY SHOP LOCALLY!
