Remembering Rugen Stores

PH-2154-Line drawing (note card) of store 

Herman Rugen established a general store in the parlor of his home at 1850 Glenview Road in 1880. In 1905, Rugen Store expanded to a larger building at the same location, which carried hardware, dry goods, clothing, and groceries. Herman and his son C.D. built a general store and cheese factory on Telegraph Road (now Shermer) in 1870. Rugen Stores became a staple in the community, serving the needs of Glenview residents for many years. In 1947, Rugen Stores was incorporated and was put on a profit-sharing of stock held by members of the family and employees. Unfortunately, the red brick Rugen Store building was demolished in the 1980s and replaced by a Bess Hardware Store.

The Glenview History Center is lucky to have received many donations of artifacts, documents, and photographs related to the Rugen Stores so we can preserve the memory of this cherished local institution. Explore Rugen artifacts in our online exhibit.

PH-0001-Early Rugen Store on Telegraph Road in 1880s

Early Rugen Store Interior 

PH-0061-Post Office in Rugen Store, 1911

PH-0806-Early Rugen Store, Dry Goods

PH-0807–Early Rugen Store, 1920s

PH-0808–Early Rugen Store

PH-0805-Rugen Store, Hardware

PH-0814-Rugen Store & Warehouse on Glenview Road, 1960s

PH-0821g-Demolition of Rugen Store, 1980