A blow to the downtown was the closing of Gilmore's Department Store in August 1998. Gilmore's opened at this location in 1899 and quickly established itself as the leading dry goods store in the region.

The original store was expanded in 1908 with a massive 6 story addition. The store was expanded again in 1976 when it was connected to three neighboring buildings, which included the old Kresge store, by a single modern storefront. Much of the building is seen here shuttered and awaiting demolition.