Following Up On Herman Greupner
After publishing William Greupner’s oral history, a news article the Sherburne County Star News published came to light, providing more details about the business history of Herman Greupner and Greupner Shoes. The article, published April 5, 1934, provides new insight into the business history of Greupner Shoes, it also gives information regarding the layout of Elk River’s business district. 1894 map of Elk River business district. Looking closely Greupner's Shoe Store most likely in the bottom edge of the map, along State Street. When Herman Greupner arrived in Elk River, in 1884, he opened his first shop next door to “the Henry Wheaton general store on the north side of the railroad tracks.” The newspaper reported, in 1885, “W. H. Houlton built a new shop for Mr. Greupner on Princeton Street,” (today Jackson Street) still north of the railroad tracks. “When my business increased,” the paper quoted Mr. Greupner, “making dress shoes for the best people...