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A Legacy in Gems: Don Jenkins Jewelry and Its Tri-generational History August 01, 2023 (0 comments)
Lima, OH--Nestled at 117 N. Elizabeth St., Don Jenkins Jeweler reveals a tale of multi-generational dedication. In 2001, the store's steward, Scott Koenig, peeled back the aluminum exterior added in 1965, revealing striking cut glass which became the centerpiece of a storefront makeover. This makeover extended to include outdoor tree lighting, fresh windows, and a welcoming entry chandelier.
[Photo courtesy of Scott Koenig via LimaOhio]
According to a report published in Lima Ohio, as World War II servicemen flooded back into Lima, eager to settle down, they didn't have to venture far to find an engagement ring. By the fall of 1945, downtown Lima was bustling with jewelers. A total of ten were conveniently located within four blocks of the Public Square.
A simple walk down West High Street, stretching from Main to West Streets, showcased five jewelry stores' tantalizing display windows. Another five were strategically positioned near or within the Public Square's vicinity.
Among Lima's cluster of jewelry stores in 1945, Don Jenkins Jeweler emerged as the freshest face, residing at 111 W. High St.
The report noted that Jenkins acquired the prior Puetz Jewelry store and inaugurated his own with an announcement in the Lima News on October 5, 1945. The ad outlined Jenkins' extensive experience with Hughes & Son, emphasizing his comprehensive knowledge of the retail jewelry business. Jenkins expressed his eagerness to serve the loyal patrons cherished by the previous ownership.
Despite shifting names and addresses over the subsequent 78 years, Lima's downtown jewelers gradually diminished. By 1970, many had shut down or migrated to the suburban shopping centers. By 1990, only Don Jenkins and Basinger's Jewelry remained.
In 2000, the Basinger family declared its imminent closure in January 2001, concluding a Lima tradition dating back to 1893. However, in May 2002, Scott Koenig, grandson of Don Jenkins, vowed to maintain the last downtown jeweler within Lima. Despite regular relocation offers, Koenig appreciated Elizabeth Street's charm and felt fortunate with their placement.
Nonetheless, the struggle to find employees ultimately forced Koenig to announce the store's closure in April. He conceded that the store could not sustain him working 60 hours a week and inadequate staffing.
Per the report, Don Jenkins, the store's founding father, and namesake, born on May 19, 1906, began his career at Hughes & Son Jewelry in 1926. After 19 years, Jenkins bought Puetz Jewelry store in 1945, establishing Don Jenkins Jewelry, a versatile store offering more than just rings and bracelets.
In 1948, Jenkins relocated his store; in 1957, his son-in-law, Donald Koenig, joined him. In 1965, the store was moved again to 117 N. Elizabeth, offering more room for diverse displays.
Jenkins ran the store until his retirement in 1989, passing away in 1990. His son-in-law, Don Koenig, who became the owner, followed suit in 1996, handing over the reins to his son.
The report highlighted that Scott Koenig joined the family trade in 1987. After a marketing degree and a sales representative stint in Florida, he returned to work with his father and grandfather. As a third-generation jeweler, he was proud to carry the family tradition.
Looking ahead, Koenig anticipates a quieter holiday season and the opportunity to enjoy cherished moments, such as the annual Ohio State-Michigan football game with loved ones, free of the store's operational pressures.
Learn more in the original report in Lima Ohio.