I grew up in a family of merchants. In fact, in a folder of papers my mother had saved, I recently found my resume and application for employment at the Philipson Army and Navy Store.
I was six years old, and you bet I got the job.
Given my early employment history, I’ve developed a particular affinity for American Jewish retailers, and I’ve built an extensive collection dedicated to preserving this particular aspect of our shared cultural identity.
In September 2025, I was honored to share part of that collection with the Texas Jewish Historical Society for the cover story of their monthly magazine. I chose K. Wolens for the Texas connection of course, but also because, like my own family’s stores, Wolens became an integral piece of the communities he served during the store’s heyday.
Enjoy this little piece of history, and if you share my interest in the crossover between Jewish culture and Texas history, I encourage you to get involved with the Texas Jewish Historical Society!
