After More than 70 Years, Wilson's of Wickford to Close

Wilson’s of Wickford, a business that has been woven into the fabric of Wickford Village for more than 70 years, is closing its doors for good.

The Wilson family announced their decision to close in a post on their Facebook page Monday night.

“It is with deep regret and a heavy heart that we write to inform you of our families decision to close our business,” the message stated. “Despite the continuing efforts of our entire family, including those of our 85 year old father Paul Wilson who is at the store daily, and the enduring support of our friends and customers, we are no longer able to continue to stay in business.”

The last day of business will be Oct. 2 and the remaining clothes on the racks, along with the fixtures, shelving and lighting, is up for sale with big savings.

There will be a retirement sale starting Wednesday (Sept. 23) and gift certificates will be honored along with store merchandise credit slips through the last day of business.

The store will be closed Tuesday to prepare for the sale.

The store neared closure last summer and the family launched a last-ditch crowdfunding campaign in an effort to save it. They were successful, raising $148,000 with plans to launch a website with online ordering, upgrade their point-of-sale system and pay vendors.

Jim Wilson, owner, said at the time that the goal, if reached, would help rejuvenate Wilson’s in addition to re-stocking the shelves. Word of the imminent closure of the store compelled thousands of people to donate money and wish the store well. Speaker of the House Nicholas Mattiello toured the store along with local Rep. Robert Craven. Many pointed at the store’s struggle as a sign of how Wickford still has a long way to go in terms of promoting itself and attracting more businesses and customers.

”We’re looking to reinvent the store,” he said at the time.

But the challenge of the retail clothing business proved insurmountable. Over the years, Wilson’s of Wickford did its best to keep up with trends, downsizing as times got tough, persevered and persevered some more. In the end, the cash infusion last year bought Wilson’s of Wickford more time, but it wasn’t enough.

“Our family would like to personally thank everyone for their kindness through the years. We will miss you all!” they said.

Wilson’s of Wickford opened in 1944 at the hands of Ethel and Edward Wilson. It has remained at its location at 35 Brown St. since day one.