Konick's Jewelers of Corvallis, Oregon

Photographs and objects in the “Consumer Culture” exhibit at the Benton County Historical Society's Philomath Museum show how the selling of goods to consumers has changed. The photos below show the evolution of one local business, Konick's Jewelers.  William Konick established the business in Corvallis in 1913 in the Occidental Hotel (later Hotel Corvallis) building on the southeast corner of Second and Madison.

As this photograph of the interior of his store soon after opening shows, Konick's sold clocks, silverware, watches, rings, and trophies. Mr. Konick is behind the counter talking to two unidentified men. 

In 1926, the business had to relocate temporarily as the hotel building was being remodeled.

By 1927, Konick's Jewelers was back in its original location with a remodeled store. The store was much roomier and Konick added a private “diamond room” for personal consultations and a gift room featuring items “of all sorts, to fit every  pocketbook.”  The store now carried glassware as well as silverware and jewelry.

In 1962, Konick's Jewelers moved to a new location on Third Street which offered about 50% more floor space. The company was now managed by William's son, Alvin Konick, and planned to offer additional services such as watch repair and a bridal registry.

The new location was lighter and brighter than the original store. What other differences do you see?

William Konick died in 1974 but the family continued to operate the store until 1984 or so.

Today, the neon sign from the business is on display in the gift shop of the Corvallis Museum.

By Martha Fraundorf, Volunteer for Benton County Historical Society, Philomath, Oregon