Following is a list of my favorite department stores and malls growing up in Mission Hills.
The list is after the jump. Enjoy!
The Akron, closed 1985, remember “The Maven” for a quick bite?
Buffum’s, amazing shoe sales and holiday decorations, The Buffums’nutty fruity Chicken Salad Sandwich…loved the restaurant, San Diego Fashion Valley (1969) – became I Magnin, now Saks Fifth Avenue
Bullock’s, loved Zarzuela restaurant flan, hands down the best. Hot popovers, chicken salad..mmm
Fashion Valley Mall,remember the old east section with Barbizon? and the west section with Farrells and the Movies? see my next post for those pics.
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| Looking east in Mission Valley in 1915. |
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Mission Valley Mall, Grand Opening Day, 1961
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| Postcard 1961 Mission Valley Mall |
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Frank L. Heath, a renowned California artist of his time whose works won numerous awards, was twenty-nine years old in 1886 when he painted the subtly colored view of Mission Valley reproduced in part on the front cover. The entire canvas, which measures 24 x 44 inches, is from the collections of the San Diego Historical Society and is currently on view at the Serra Museum in Presidio Park.
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| Mission Valley Center, the most unique shopping city in Southern California, is centrally located just minutes from Hotel Circle and downtown San Diego. Seventy-two fashionable shops and services provide a selection and variety to delight every taste. Moving sidewalks, sheltered lower-level parking, covered malls, and tempting outdoor restaurants make a visit to Mission Valley Center an exciting adventure for the entire family. |
Mission Valley Mall, remember Judy’s store that welcomed you into malls?
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| In 1953 the Sears & Roebuck Department store stood in what is now the Uptown District. Remember the Halloween Shop, and the smell of warm cashews? |
White Front, when parent company White Front Stores, Inc. filed for bankruptcy in 1975 and then went out of business, the locations were changed to Two Guys, another discount chain. Two Guys soon failed as well and the stores became relabeled as FedMart stores, which eventually were purchased by Target Stores.
Woolworth’s – The Largest Variety Store
What were your favorite department stores growing up?
WOW. Just, wow 🙂