Henry County Historical Highlights: New London’s Dameron Clothing Company

Courtesy of Henry County Historic Preservation Commission

The Dameron Clothing Co. came into being when Robert H. Dameron, age 37, bought the clothing department from J. E. Peterson in 1911, having worked there twenty years. He continued his business in the Peterson building until he moved it across the street to the east section of the newly built Iowa State Bank building in 1912.

Robert's son, Mervin (Bill) eventually took over the store, added other departments and continued operating it until 1974. It was the 'go to” place to buy men's, women's and children's clothing and shoes, school supplies, sheets, towels, fabric, etc.

At the Dover Museum, a floor length mirror from one of the dressing rooms is centered between the two display cases housing items from this family business, known simply as 'Dameron's”, which operated on Main Street for over sixty years.