Reflections by Sammy Way: The Hub: Sumter's busiest bargain store

Reflections revisits The Hub, later known as Bergers, one of Sumter's favorite shopping establishments. This business would undergo several changes; however, it remained an integral part of Sumter's shopping community. The data and photos used were obtained from The Item archives and from a sketch written by Cassie Nicholes which will be replicated with a modicum of editing.

"This business, once located on North Main Street for more than a half-century, was known as Berger's Men's Clothing and Shoe Store. In 1912 the founder of this store, Abraham Isaac Mazursky, born in Russia in 1892, came to South Carolina and the following year he moved to Sumter County. He began business with Henry Weinberg, establishing a general merchandising store in Mayesville. He, with his wife, daughter Helen, and son, Morris, continued to live in that town for several years."

"In 1923 he established a business of his own, a department store on the east side of North Main Street in Sumter. This store, known as 'The Hub,' drew many customers. 'Mr. Abe' or 'Mr. Hub,' as he was frequently called by his friends, knew the mercantile business and was a 'born' salesman. Being in a strategic location, he attracted those who came to the city from the country to sell their produce and/or to make necessary purchases, as well as those who lived in the city."

Mazursky's daughter, having inherited the business acumen and personality of her father, was married to Harry Berger, who was also interested in the mercantile business. In 1951 they became partners with her father, and the name of the store was changed to Berger's.

The store was later moved to the west side of Main Street to a location that in the early years of Sumter's history had been occupied at different times by Theodore Solomons and Co., J. Ryttenberg and Sons and Levi Bros. The image of the store, as well as the name, was changed. Instead of a department store marketing wearing apparel for men, women and children, as well as other merchandise in the dry goods category, it later became a specialty store for men's apparel. It carried excellent suits, such as Campus, Cotler and Normano. It specialized in fashionable men's shoes - Padrino, Harbor and others. In addition, all accessories such as shirts, hats, sweaters, scarves, belts, ties, etc. could be purchased by the well-dressed man. The business offered a satisfactory choice for every man at prices that would please.

Later Stephen Berger, son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Berger, became a partner in the firm. Thus, Berger's was a business of continuous family interest and ownership, guaranteeing to the public the services of a partnership built on a foundation of thrift, integrity and interest in the growth of Sumter. It was the desire of the founder, "Mr. Abe" Mazursky, to establish such a business, that he might leave behind the heritage of a good name. He loved America and wanted to be a good citizen of his adopted country. He loved Sumter and made many contributions toward its growth. In the same spirit his descendants continued this great tradition.

Four full-time salesladies were also employed. Three of these - Ethel Scurry, Ruby Robbs and Martha Hancock - were with the firm for more than 25 years. Addie Hinson was an employee for 15 years. These ladies had a thorough knowledge of the stock as well as the latest trends in men's wear. They were cordial and friendly, knowing how to meet the public and assist the customers. The fact that they were with the company for many years demonstrated their ability and loyalty as well as the successful growth of Berger's.

Clinton Caesar, another full-time employee, was with the business a year. He was responsible for window and inside displays, as well as sales. One part-time employee, Harold Brogdon, was a full-time student at the University of South Carolina.