B.B. Fowler — ‘Bona fide’ sale

On the seventh day, downtown Glens Falls merchant B.B. Fowler planned the next sale.

“We advertised a few days ago a special sale for six days only of domestic goods at prices never before attempted by any dry goods establishment in this state,” the retailer advertised on April 1, 1884 in The Morning Star. “We did just as we said we would, without, without a hair’s variation, and as a result the people came and bought and went home pleased.”

Now Fowler offered a new sale on fabric remnants, ranging from two to 10 yards in length.

“An opportunity of this kind should be appreciated, as it no doubt will be by everybody.”

On May 10, 1884 The Morning Star praised the artistic creativity of Isaac Gordon, head salesman and window display organizer at B.B. Fowler at 102 Glen St.

“A tastily trimmed show window at Fowler’s dry goods store, in which is a rich display of laces, satins, velvets, etc., attracted much attention yesterday afternoon.”

Fowler embodied the Old Testament book of Ecclesiastes adage about every thing having its season.

(Hum along now with your choice of either Pete Seeger or The Byrds.)

“People wonder why Mr. Fowler, unlike other merchants, has always new and fresh goods to show in their season. The reason is very simple. We never carry goods from one season to another,” the retailer advertised June 28, 1884 in The Morning Star.

Fowler kicked off a sale that day, through July 4, on all summer merchandise.

“By merchants experienced in the trade of Glens Falls and vicinity, it (July 4) is considered the turning point between spring and fall trade. Mr. Fowler, who has watched the ins and outs of the dry goods trade for over fifteen years, can fully appreciate this fact and is always quick to turn it to his advantage. … Understand that this reduction applies not to a few specialties which we have, but includes our ENTIRE STOCK of summer goods, and will be a bona fide reduction sale.”

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