Edward Chapman WOMAN

Edward Chapman’s realized its humble beginnings as a business outfitter for the pioneers of the Klondike Gold Rush. The tastes of the city folks supplying and prospering from the Gold Rush quickly became more sophisticated as fortunes increased for the average person. Edward Chapman’s was in a position to benefit from these fortunes and the company became a major supplier of goods for the Klondike pioneers. Silk hats and handkerchiefs arrived directly from Japan. Luxurious suede gloves from England sold for $1.00 and Pear soap for 15 cents. A sales record book dated 1891 shows daily sales ranged from $10.50 on a typical sales day in September to $206.50 on December 24th, 1891. Demand for goods was huge as fortunes continued to be made.

Ernest Rea is hired from Ireland to work at Edward Chapman in Vancouver. He immigrated to Vancouver and wrote a letter to his mother in Ireland describing Vancouver as he saw it upon his arrival. Read the letter – CLICK HERE.

Ernest Rea becomes manager of Edward Chapman

Edward Chapman passes away and Ernest Rea purchases controlling interest in the company. Soon after, his son David enters the business. David is still actively involved in the business, some 65+ years later

A separate woman’s store opens on Georgia St. where the Pacific Centre is currently located

A second location opens in the new Oakridge Mall

A third store opens at 10th and Granville, location of our present flagship store

Ernest Rea passes away at the age of 92, having been active in the business for 69 years

90 years of business is celebrated, featuring 9 decades of fashion.

100 years of business is celebrated in conjunction with the Centenary Van Dusen Gardens

Circa Ici opens

Edward Chapman WOMAN/CIRCA ICI evolves and modernizes to its contemporary flagship store at 10th and Granville.

In partnership with The Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Edward Chapman Woman hosted the 65 Red Roses Passion for Fashion fundraising initiative to celebrate and continue the legacy of Eva Markvoort.

Oakridge Centre location closes and new store opens in Grandview Corners, S. Surrey