Kronenberg’s Men’s Clothing Store

Samuel Kronenberg, an entrepreneur of inexpensive yet fashionable men's clothing, immigrated from Germany to the United States in the early 1860s.¹ The outbreak of the Civil War led to a blockade around New York, forcing Kronenberg to enter the country in Savannah, Georgia.² In Georgia he was forced into the Confederate Army, where he fought until he was given a Citizen's Pass to travel by the Provost Marshal General's office in 1864.³ Using the pass, Kronenberg moved to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where he worked at a relative’s clothing store until he meet his wife, Henietta Schweitzer in 1866.⁴ Kronenberg realized he would not be able to support a family working at this store, and decided to move to Cumberland County in March of 1866 to open a clothing store of his own.⁵ This small store on the corner of Hanover and Louther was called “Cheap John's,” a nickname Kronenberg affectionately called himself.⁶ In 1870, the store moved to South Hanover Street where it was renamed “Kronenberg’s,” a name that became a legacy in Carlisle.⁷

After Samuel Kronenberg’s death in 1893, his sons William and Edward took over the store, bringing it into the 20^th century.⁸ In 1905 they bought Franklin House, a local tavern, and the adjoining building on South Hanover Street.⁹ This adjoining building became the new location of the Kronenberg's store, set between the courthouse, market house, and other local businesses, making it a popular spot for locals.¹⁰ In 1916, just 11 years after moving locations, the brothers built the largest and most modern building in Carlisle.¹¹ Standing 3 stories tall, the brick, wood, and glass building housed a store, offices, and apartments.¹² Unfortunately, the building burnt down on December 7, 1929, leaving $285,000 in damages.¹³ A year later, the new, fireproof building opened under the direction of Edward Kronenberg.

When William and Edward became partners, the store implemented a new policy of civic mindedness. During this time the store windows were used as community displays, advertising for groups like the Red Cross and Carlisle High School Band.¹⁴ Inside the store was a display case selling commemorative items, such as plates and mugs, from the Carlisle Civic Club.¹⁵ The store remained a family business after the deaths of William and Edward Kronenberg in 1927 and 1946, respectively.¹⁶ Edward's wife, Helen Tomlinson Kronenberg assumed the position of head of the corporation following his death.¹⁷ Following her death, Bearden Kunkel, married to one of the Kronenberg daughters, become president of the store.¹⁸ Over the years various family members have worked part time or full time in the store, as salesmen, secretaries, office managers, and more.¹⁹

Kronenberg's celebrated its 100^th year anniversary in October of 1966, acknowledging the people of Carlisle for the store's success.²⁰ The clothing store was a favorite among residents, for its cheap and fashionable clothing as well as its community engagement. Local author Lois Lowry recalled one of her favorite flannel shirts coming from Kronenberg’s.²¹ Samuel Kronenberg's discount clothing store started as a way to support a household, but transformed turned into valued family business and community asset for over a hundred years.