As Clark Shoes In Cornwall Ontario Ends, a New Era Begins in Ingleside by Don Smith

CFN – Long time customers and friends are mourning this week’s closure of Clark’s Shoe Store, located on Pitt Street in Cornwall’s original mile square.

The store has served the area for 116 years, having been founded by Louis H. Clark, grandfather of third generation owner, Ross McDonald. Clark’s was one of the longest operating family run shoe stores in Cornwall and in all of Canada.

As we were enjoying breakfast at Spinner’s Diner earlier this week, McDonald stopped by our table to chat. He’s enjoyed his many years of working in and operating the Cornwall landmark, but feels that the time to retire has come. Not that he plans to lounge about; McDonald will continue to operate his farm just outside of Cornwall. What will he do in the winter months? Time will tell.

Clark’s has long been known for carrying moderately priced quality footwear, and for providing unsurpassed customer service. That combination will be missed, but McDonald exhorts his customers not to worry. A former long term employee, Carol Delorme, opened her own shop in April in a small strip mall at Unit 6-15 Dickinson Drive in nearby Ingleside. McDonald is quick to refer customers to her Farran Footwear store. The store also carries hand bags and wallets and is glad to place custom orders.

In the short video clip we see Clark’s completely emptied of stock – something not seen since the devastating fire in the 1970s which necessitated a rebuild of the store, and my informal chat with Farran’s owner, Carol Delorme. With 30 years of experience and a good range of brands, she’s well positioned to serve the needs of the area. Her store is open six days a week and a great summer sale is getting underway. Be sure to mention that we sent you!