In roaring 1920s America, the economy was strong. With the debt leading to the economic collapse of the Great Depression far from people’s minds, it was an exciting time: the winter Olympic games were held in Switzerland, Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly an aircraft across the Atlantic Ocean and Herbert Hoover was elected President.

With a new president and strong economy came new businesses, and Kean’s Store Company began its now-80-year journey. Gus G. Kean’s beginning on Jefferson Street in Mason was simple—his five and dime store carried everything from toiletries and underwear to bikes and grave blankets. Most of the store’s patrons were farmers, so the store was open until 10 pm every night and closed on Sundays. It’s a different picture today.

“Now people come from all over; Kean’s is a destination,” says Teresa Wren, Kean’s third-generation owner, who remembers the family business in her younger days fondly. “When I was six, I remember seeing a teddy bear on the shelf [in the store] and then receiving that same bear for Christmas,” she laughs. “There was also a penny horse on the sidewalk that ALL the kids wanted to ride.” Toys were a large part of the store’s inventory and they   continue to be today.

In the early 60’s the business was handed over to Teresa’s father, Warner D. Kean, who bought the entire building Kean’s stands in today. When Kean retired in the mid-90s, Teresa bought the store—naturally. “Over the years, I became more interested in the store; when Dad retired and I had started a family, it just worked for me,” says Wren.

As soon as one walks in the (original) doors, one is greeted by an old-fashioned bulk candy case (also original) holding favorite candies. There is always a hot pot of coffee and an old-fashioned popcorn popper that has been a staple since the store opened. These days the store stocks home décor, Hallmark cards, jewelry and supplies for crafting projects.

“Despite e-mail, our card sales are high. People still appreciate a handwritten card,” Wren says. “We’re really trying to keep prices affordable. We want somebody to come in and get a nice gift for $10 or less, which gives our products value.”
While the change has not been drastic, the current economy has somewhat impacted sales at the store. What distinguishes a small business like Kean’s? “Customer service and a special, unique atmosphere sets us apart from the chain stores,” Wren answers. “We’ve really seen a surge in fabrics and crafts. People today are spending more time at home, so they are finding inexpensive ways to spruce things up here and there.”

To stay involved with the community, Kean’s has stepped up their events and promotions to host ladies’ night, complete with chair massage and nail polishing, and wine and cheese nights. Wren also offers unique corporate gifts, where businesspeople can basically come in, pick out or order what they’d like, and Kean’s will prepare and deliver it.
“Ron Mason’s wife has bought our Michigan State University pottery and filled it with green and white jelly beans and other goodies,” Wren says with a smile. “We can customize it however somebody would like!”

As for Kean’s becoming a fourth-generation business, Wren is unsure. “My three children have expressed interest, but two aren’t out of high school yet, so I’m not really sure at this point. I suppose if somebody makes me the right offer…” she laughs.

In the present, Kean’s remains a strong economic element of Mason’s community, and will assuredly remain so in the years to come.

 

Author: Sarah Wardell
Photo: Teresa Wren