This is a list of all chain grocery locations my research has uncovered in Springfield between 1925 and 2020, compiled from city directories, telephone books, and other sources. There may be some omissions due to incomplete or missing data, etc. and I welcome suggestions and corrections. Please read about my methodology for more information about what I do and do not include.
View and download a copy of this location spreadsheet via Google Sheets.
Notes:
- A&P opened its first “tea store” in 1885 (45 S. Limestone Street) and remained in the city until 1975, despite never seeming to be a major player.
- E.W. Fulmer’s first store opened in 1909 (Yellow Springs and Pleasant Streets). Clauer Bros opened its first store in 1913 (1901 W. Main Street). Fulmer purchased Clauer Bros in 1942.
- Kroger arrived in 1917 (36 N. Fountain Avenue) and remains in Springfield to this day.
- The first Albers location came in 1940 (100 N. Fountain Avenue) in a former interurban rail station.
- Big Bear opened its first two stores in converted A&P buildings in 1948.
- Master Grocers, a local co-op, was established in 1934. Many of is members were also retailers of White Villa products and used that name in some advertising as well. All still operated primarily under their own names.
Store tags:
- A&P
- Albers
- Big Bear
- Clauer Bros
- Fulmer Food Markets
- IGA
- Kroger
- Master Grocers
- White Villa
Photos:
Site of first Clauer Bros store at 1901 West Main Street (Google Maps):
Albers, 100 North Fountain Avenue (no longer standing), 1963 and 1940 (newspaper photos):
White Villa logo, 1950s:
Bangart & Sons Master Grocery Store, 1952:
Albers Colonial, 2248 North Limestone Street, 1958 (newspaper photo):
A&P, 2105 East main Street, 1963 (newspaper photo):
Same location, 2023 (author photo):
