Marco & Lewenthal

Marco & Lewenthal was founded by Polish immigrants Samuel Marco (1838-1909) and Isaac Lewenthal (c.1853-c.1928) on the corner of Cashua Street and the Public Square in Darlington around 1880. It began as a farmer’s supply store that sold dry goods and groceries as well as horses, mules, wagons, and farming implements. Around the time that Isaac married Samuel’s daughter Sarah (c.1867-c.1906) in 1885, they also expanded their stock to include ready-made clothing, shoes, and boots. On March 3, 1892, their store—along with most other buildings on the west side of the Public Square—was destroyed in a fire. The following month, Samuel and Isaac announced plans to dissolve their partnership. In 1893, Isaac built a new dry goods, grocery, and clothing store on the former site of Marco & Lewenthal. By that time, Samuel was considered one of the wealthiest citizens in Darlington.