The Family Dollar building has changed over time by changing locations and business models. First, the former Whipple-Converse Store moved from the Post Office Block to the Converse Block where Family Dollar is now located. It changed locations in 1947. Besides this, it changed from a small local business, The Whipple-Converse Company, to a chain store, the Family Dollar, in 2007. Additionally, The Converse Company did deliveries for people and Family Dollar does not offer that. It was much easier for locals when deliveries were available because some people had small cars and could not transport a large appliance in them. The Family Dollar doesn’t offer deliveries because they don’t offer as many large products. This is how the Family Dollar building has changed over time.
This is an early photograph of the Converse Building.
The original building of the Converse Company before it was destroyed by a fire
A photograph of the 1945 fire at the Converse Company
This truck is the Maytag washing machine delivery truck. It was used by the employees at the Whipple-Converse Company to make bring appliances to people's homes.
This is an ad for the Converse Company from the late 1970's. "You Get Quality At Converse Company!"
Some employees, like Robert Chapdelaine, worked for the company for a long time. He retired from the Converse Company after 23 years.
This delivery truck was used when the Converse Company did delivery in the 1990's.
The Family Dollar does not offer delivery today.
This image was taken when Orene Dudley retired after 66 years. Wow! That's a long time to work somewhere!
Orene Dudley was co-owner of the Converse Building. This article from The Chronicle celebrates her 100th birthday.
The location of the Family Dollar in Orleans today
Click here for a view of The Family Dollar block today.