Modesto is known for being the place where much of the location filming for “American Graffiti” was done. It is also the hometown of Save-Mart Supermarkets and has been served by many large chains (Safeway, Lucky, Purity, Alpha Beta, Piggly Wiggly) as well as smaller ones (New Deal, Justesen’s) and independents. Nearby Turlock also has an interesting retail history.
This is a list of all known chain grocery addresses in Modesto, Turlock, and the surrounding area between 1925 and 1985, compiled from city directories, telephone books, and other sources. It is generated through a live Google Spreadsheet so it reflects the latest information I have.
Access and download the location spreadsheet via Google Sheets.
Notes:
- Oakdale street names and addresses have changed so much that I was unable to match all addresses.
- Some of the really Save-Mart Stores operated as Super Save. I assume this banner was always owned by Save-Mart but I am not certain.
- I’m also not certain in the Los Angeles Market ever operated independently of Save-Mart.
- Turlock listings from 1970 are actually from 1968, and listings from 1985 are actually from 1982. That’s as close as I could get with available data.
Store tags:
- Albertsons
- Alpha Beta
- Justesen’s
- Lucky
- Mac Marr
- New Deal
- Piggly Wiggly
- Purity
- Safeway
- Save-Mart
