7 Stores That Anyone Who Grew Up In Massachusetts Will Undoubtedly Remember

If you grew up in Massachusetts, chances are there are some long-gone shopping institutions that you wish were still around. From discount chains to elegant department stores, there are plenty of storied shops that now exist only in our memory. Here are some of our favorite Massachusetts stores that closed within the last 30 years. How many of these 80s stores that no longer exist do you remember?

1. Jordan Marsh

The first major department store in Boston, Jordan Marsh was founded in 1841 and became famous for its lavish Christmas Enchanted Village display and delicious blueberry muffins. After more than 150 years of operation, Jordan Marsh finally closed its last store in 1996. It's one of the old Boston department stores most of us will never forget. Keep strolling down Memory Lane with a peek at these long gone Boston department stores featured in a previous article.

2. Filene's

Filene’s was a beloved department store that started in Boston all the way back in 1881. Generations of Bay Staters have fond memories of shopping here and in Filene’s Basement, a discounted branded for extra merchandise. Filene’s began to hit hard times in the early 2000s and finally ceased to exist in 2006, with many of its storefronts transitioning to Macy’s. What are your favorite memories of what might be the most popular of all old department stores in Massachusetts? Share in the comments! Then go on another journey back in time with a look at these 10 things from the 80s.

3. Ames

Born in Southbridge in 1958, many locals remember shopping at Ames for cheap clothing, footwear, jewelry, toys and housewares. Ames finally shut down its last storefront in 2002 after going bankrupt, sadly becoming one of a long list of well-known stores that have closed in the last 30 years.

4. Bradlees

Bradlees was a chain of discount department stores that started in New London, Connecticut but spread all over New England. When the company was purchased by Stop & Shop in 1961, the store was frequently seen in plazas with the grocery giant. Bradlees finally went under in 2001.

5. Zayre

This Framingham-based discount shop first opened its doors in 1956. Over the next 30 years, it spread along the coast of New England selling everyday essentials and odds and ends at cheap prices. It finally closed in 1990.

6. Building #19

This discount shop was a mainstay for cheap stuff. Founded in 1964, Building #19 shuttered its operations in 2013.

7. Spag's

This discount department store in Shrewsbury had a loyal following. It opened in 1934 and flourished until its eventual closure in 2004. This commercial from 1991 should have the memories flooding back in no time.

Do you remember shopping at any of these old Massachusetts stores? What are some other 80s stores that no longer exist in Massachusetts that your remember? Share your memories below! For more Massachusetts nostalgia, check out these 13 bizarre experiences every Bay Stater has experienced at least one.