Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Quinn's Market, North Bloomfield, Ohio

This out-of-the-way store has fascinated me for years. I first discovered it when visiting the North Bloomfield Flea Market, many years ago. The curved architecture of its roof immediately captured my notice. Nothing like it exists anywhere in the area.



I suspect that originally, the area above this store's front facade was open glass. It would fit the bygone "marina roof" designs seen elsewhere across North America in the Baby Boom era.




Inside, both ladies at the cash register were dressed in light blue uniforms with the Quinn's logo. A quick walk around the store revealed lots of open space - a clear indicator that the building had originally housed a regular grocery store. But - what chain would have operated in such a remote location? The store design didn't look like an old A & P or Kroger.
I left with a smile... and lots of unanswered questions.

4 Comments:

Blogger roger said...

It was built about 1964 to replace a smaller store that sat in the front parking lot. It was designed after the open air markets on the east coast. Yes, it did have an all glass front, it had an open ceiling, cathedral, and it was a giant grocery store up until the 1990s.

9:53 AM  
Blogger Rod Ice said...

Thanks for the info, Roger. Do you have any old pics or other information relating to this store?

12:53 PM  
Blogger roger said...

This has always been a locally owned & operated grocery. At one time the Value King sign was out front, but even than, it was always known as Quinns. This family has owned it since the early 60's I believe. Prior to them, it was the Mumma's & Russell's that ran the former store.
http://www.bloomfieldtwpoh.com/historicalsociety.htm
You will see the store that was originally in front in this photo.

8:52 PM  
Blogger Rod Ice said...

Fascinating info. Thank you!

5:18 AM  

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