Born in Walworth, NY on July 18, 1811, Elihu L. Clark became a clerk in a dry goods store in Palmyra, NY at the age of 19. He took over the business in 1832, and continued as owner/operator until 1835, when he sold out to a Mr. Jackson for $1,000 ($32,000 in today’s money). He immediately took the funds to New York where he used his entire net worth to purchase new inventory, and had it shipped to Adrian, Michigan. He opened a small store on Main Street, selling goods exclusively for cash.
Historical Information and Restoration Progress of 120 & 124 South Winter St – Downtown Adrian, Michigan