Younker Family

Business Moguls: The Younker Family

Written by Erika Berrett

Early Beginnings in Keokuk

The Younker family’s story began in Keokuk, Iowa, where brothers Lipman, Samuel, and Marcus Younker founded a small dry goods and clothing store in 1856. Immigrants from Polotzk, Poland, the Younker brothers brought with them a strong work ethic and a deep sense of community. Their store, located at 82 Main Street, was strategically positioned near the confluence of the Mississippi and Des Moines rivers, making Keokuk an ideal location for trade. This allowed them to easily access goods transported by steamboat traffic, a key commercial lifeline at the time.

In addition to running their store, the brothers ventured out into rural areas, bringing essential household products to isolated settlers through peddling excursions. This service fostered strong relationships with the local population, and the Younker Brothers’ business soon became well-known in Keokuk and the surrounding regions. Despite the challenges of the Civil War and a tenuous economy, the Younker family persevered, and their business grew steadily during its first decade.

Expansion and the Move to Des Moines

In 1866, Samuel Younker took part in a historic journey when the first passenger train ran from Keokuk to Des Moines. As one of the inaugural passengers, Samuel’s inclusion symbolized the success of the Younker enterprise. However, the same railroads that facilitated trade began to divert commercial attention away from river towns like Keokuk and toward the state’s interior. The Younker Brothers recognized the shifting economic landscape, and in 1874, the family expanded their operations by opening a branch store in Des Moines. Ever progressive in expansion and innovation, Younkers was the first store in Des Moines to employ a woman clerk, Mrs. Mary McCann, age 30, in 1881. 

Following Samuel’s unexpected death in 1879, Marcus Younker moved to Des Moines to help manage the growing business, while Lipman headed to New York City. This marked the end of Younker Brothers’ presence in Keokuk, as the original store closed. Yet, the business flourished in Des Moines and beyond, ultimately becoming a major department store chain.

Legacy of Innovation and Inclusivity

Younker Brothers not only became successful merchants but also innovators in the retail industry. In 1880, Herman Younker made waves by hiring the first female clerk in Des Moines, a 30-year-old widow named Mary McCann. At the time, it was highly unconventional for women to work in retail positions, but Herman’s decision paved the way for greater inclusivity. McCann quickly became a trusted figure among customers, and within a year, Younker Brothers hired more women to work in their store.

The Younker family’s forward-thinking approach continued as they expanded their flagship store in Des Moines. They added a tearoom in 1913 and incorporated the company in 1904, further enabling the expansion of their brand throughout Iowa and neighboring states.

A Family of Philanthropists

The Younker family’s influence extended beyond their business success. They were active in the Jewish community, with Samuel Younker helping to establish the B’nai Israel Synagogue in Keokuk. Mrs. Samuel Younker, born in Kurnick, Prussia, in 1839, was described by biographer Winona Reeves as “a brave pioneer, an exemplary mother, and a woman of broad charity.” Her contributions to the community embodied the values of service and compassion, as she balanced her roles as a mother to six children and as a charitable force in the community.

Though the original founders of the Younker Brothers store have long since passed, their legacy endures. Younker Brothers became one of the most well-known department store chains in the Midwest, employing thousands of people and serving countless customers over its 162-year history. Though the chain eventually closed in 2018, its impact on the retail industry and its legacy of community service remains a testament to the Younker family’s vision and determination.

Conclusion

The Younker family’s story is one of perseverance, innovation, and deep community involvement. From their humble beginnings in Keokuk, they built a business that not only provided essential goods but also set standards for inclusivity and service. The Younkers’ dedication to both their business and their community made them a lasting influence on Iowa’s history.

Sources:

1. Goodbye My Keokuk Lady

2. Tales of Early Keokuk

3. The Younker Brothers Marker

4. Eric Renshaw, "Looking Back: Younkers’ history dates to 1856 Iowa," Argus Leader