Waddell’s Shoe Store was established in 1895 by M. C. Thomas and J. N. Waddell. When this photograph was taken (1916) it along with Keller’s, was the leading shoe store in Charlottesville. Waddell’s was located in the prime business block between 3rd and 4th Streets, next to Peoples National Bank and Wood’s clothing store. It is believed the men in this photograph are Mr. Waddell, Mr. Shackelford, Mr. Barksdale and Mr. Lee.
For many years Waddell’s did a thriving business, dealing in luggage and hosiery as well as shoes. During this era fashions were stable, and the same shoe styles remained popular year after year. However, after World War II clothing fads began to take their toll on small stores like Waddell’s who found it impossible to keep all the various styles in stock and were forced out of business.
