I am a Thalhimers alumni. I got my start in the computer industry at the regional retail giant back in 1988 when Mr. Lee Roberts, VP-IT (CTO) asked me to work as a computer operator with no prior training (previously I had been a stock boy and ‘relay’ assistant manager since joining in 1986). What a lucky break for me! From the computer operations department I got a rare look across so many of the company’s internal functions and I met so many people who would teach me so much about business, computing, and professional networking. At the time I had no idea that my recently discovered affinity for computers would lead to a long-term career.

Finding Thalhimers is a new book written by a modern descendant of the Thalhimer family. Thalhimers was a regional chain of 26 large scale department stores located throughout four Southern states, and headquartered in Richmond, Va. The store was founded in 1842 and and grew steadily until about 1990 but ultimately lost its identity when management and operations were dissolved while several locations were folded into another department store chain by a new owner in 1992. As a result, Downtown Richmond, Va., location of the original flagship store which endured until 1992, has never been the same without the large scale retail that had existed at Thalhimers and its long-time rival Miller & Rhoads, which went bankrupt in 1990. Many folks in the region still fondly remember the legendary customer service, enjoyable shopping experiences, and sweets from the bakery, all found at Thalhimers.

The Finding Thalhimers book describes the family behind the store from an insider’s point of view. It is a compelling read for anyone who remembers the magic the stores offered year ’round, particularly during the holidays. I enjoyed reading the book which provide many previously little-known family stories and abundant background information about the store’s development since 1842 and incredible growth during the first 90 or so years of the 20th century.