Houston isn't the only Texas city where distinctive landmarks are disappearing.
The iconic Galveston store Col. Bubbie's, which has been a fixture on The Strand for more than 40 years, is closing. The unique emporium that bills itself as "the free world's only AUTHENTIC military surplus store" will remain open through Labor Day, owner Suzie Reiswerg told CultureMap. "Then we will see how much of our large inventory we have left at that point, and decide on a final closing date," she said.
"We're definitely doing this on a high note. No bankruptcy, nothing bad has happened, it's simply just the right time," Reiswerg said.
The musty-smelling, no-frills warehouse store is stacked high with merchandise ranging from military uniforms from more countries than they are in the United Nations to medals, ribbons, awards and insignia as well as a large inventory of military back packs, sleeping bags, tents, blankets, ponchos, cold weather gear, hot weather gear, boots, medical urinals and other items.
"We're definitely doing this on a high note. No bankruptcy, nothing bad has happened, it's simply just the right time," Reiswerg said.
Reiswerg and her husband Meyer — the original Col. Bubbie himself — opened the store in 1972. He died five years ago, leaving her in charge. Although she says it has been a great run, "after 42 years, I'm ready to enter retirement," she said.
Reiswerg said she plans to offer sales of up to 70 percent off on the large inventory.
The iconic military surplus store in its prime Galveston location.
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