The Hagerstown Haberdashers

Brewer & Myers, an exclusive Hagerstown clothing store for men and boys in the early 20th century, was known primarily for its wide assortment of quality merchandise – suits, topcoats, overcoats and shoes – at moderate prices. Original founders Peter S. Brewer and John D. Myers, can be seen here standing in front of their display windows (at far left and third from right). The business changed its name to John D. Myers & Company, shortly after the death of Brewer in 1918.

The retailer’s location at 25-27 North Potomac Street sat alongside the Hagerstown Dining Room, whose lettered window boasts a “quick lunch” for ladies and gents, not to mention being “Open All Night.” In 1910, the restaurant installed a $950 “self-playing unit” for patrons, which played music for guests to accompany the establishment’s menu which advertised “all home cooking.”

This vintage image was preserved and provided courtesy of the Washington County Historical Society. To enjoy hundreds more historic views from the society’s collection, visit washcohistory.org