After a century of business, being there for some of life's biggest moments, Dallmeyer's Jewelry Store has closed after 100 years in business.
Its last official day of business was Oct. 31, however, the staff is continuing to work.
Owner Bruce Magee said although he would like to be open for the holidays, the time to close was now.
"It's just time," Magee said. "It has run its course."
The downtown local store has a long history in Jefferson City, first opening in 1913. Phil Dallmeyer opened a jewelry, watch, and optical store in the 200 block of Madison Street. Three years later, Phil and Lena Dallmeyer bought the old Guyot jewelry store on the south side of the 200 block of East High Street. The business remained at that site until 1940, when the store moved across the street to its present location at 223 E. High St.
Phil Dallmeyer Jr. joined the family business in 1946, after returning from World War II, having served as a Marine Corps pilot in the Pacific Theater. Phil Jr. and his wife, Joyce, owned and operated the jewelry store for more than 40 years. In addition to jewelry, the store had a thriving bridal registry business which included fine china, stemware and sterling flatware until the mid-1980s.
The third generation of Dallmeyer jewelers on High Street came in the late 1980s after Mike and Rita Dallmeyer bought the store and carried on the family tradition.
They eventually sold the business in 1998 to partners, including Bruce Magee, who became the sole owner in early 2000.
Magee said being a part of customers' lives for the special times - weddings, anniversaries, etc., has made them more than customers, but friends.
"It has been a pleasure and privilege to work with our customers in Jefferson City and the surrounding communities," Magee said. "I want to say thank you for your patronage and support over the past 100 years."
The building at 223 E. High St. is owned by Steve Dallmeyer. Although there are no plans set in stone, Magee said he foresees the building staying in the Dallmeyer family.
Have a story idea for Biz-Beat? Send your suggestions to [email protected].