Here we have an image (from the quality of it, it looks like it’s a still from a film) that gives us an idea what local stores looked like in the late 1930s. The 3000 block of Vermont Ave was anchored by Alexander’s Market and its vertical signage. Next door is Mode O’ Day, which was a chain of affordable women’s wear (one report I found said that at its peak, there were 700 stores nationwide.) Next to it is GallenKamp Shoes, which I’ve never heard of but you’ve got to love that starting price of $3.95. (That’s the 2025 equivalent of around $90, which is what I paid for my last pair of Sketchers, so that sounds about right. (Source: Calisphere)
Michael S. says: “It was an Alexander’s until 1972.”
Rob B. says: “I remember GallenKamp’s shoes all around the LA area — and being advertised on TV kid-type shows, 1950s to ’70s.”
Elaine B. says: “GallenKamp shoes was very popular in the 50s and 60s. Our family shopped there and at Kinneys for our shoes.”
I love the 1932 Buick parked in front of the store. I also love the price of the shoes although 90 dollars today’s money does not sound so good.
Just imagine what they’d be asking for a brand new 1932 Buick if they could build them today.
I remember Gallenkamp’s and Mode O’ Day. I know Mode O’ Day was in the Culver Center shopping center between Venice and Washington. We drove by it yesterday, and I don’t think there’s a single store left from when I was a kid.
Gosh, no, that mall is *completely* different now!