10/06/2026
Gladstone’s downtown history came full circle this September when descendants of one of the community’s early merchants returned to Delta Avenue to celebrate a piece of their family’s story.
Henry Rosenblum and his wife, Rose, settled in Gladstone in 1891 and became prominent members of the downtown business community. After operating their first store in the 900 block of Delta Avenue, the Rosenblums constructed an impressive new store at 816 Delta Avenue.
Known for elaborate window displays, seasonal celebrations and quality merchandise, the business became a fixture of downtown Gladstone before Henry Rosenblum retired and the building was sold to the J.C. Penney Company in 1928.
To commemorate the family’s visit and their lasting connection to the community, the Gladstone Downtown Development Authority secured a bench dedicated to the Rosenblum family.
With the help of local historian and volunteer Ann Jousma Miller, the bench was formally dedicated on Saturday, September 12, surrounded by members of the Rosenblum family.
Read more about the preservation of Gladstone’s history and the impact from the Rosenblum Family at the link in the comments.
