James Ramsey was a man who introduced retail trade to Edmonton, becoming the founder of numerous retail establishments. The echoes of his early ventures can still be found in the modern Kelly Ramsey Tower, located in the heart of the city. This tower, built 100 years ago by James Ramsey, stands as a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit. Known as the “Merchant Prince,” his life and achievements tell a compelling story. More on iedmonton.net.
The Beginnings of Business
James Ramsey was born in Imlay City, Michigan, in 1864. At the age of four, his family emigrated to Oxford County, Ontario. At 13, Ramsey began working in a general store in Plattsville, marking the start of his journey in retail.
In 1910, a pivotal trip to Edmonton awakened him to the untapped potential of the West. While in Edmonton, Ramsey met Robert Tegler, who had ambitious plans to develop a modern business district. Tegler proposed a partnership that Ramsey accepted after returning to Ontario with renewed inspiration.
Tegler later telegraphed Ramsey with detailed plans for a building project. Motivated by the prospect, Ramsey immediately boarded a train back to Edmonton. Despite his limited experience in retail, he opened his first store in Tegler’s building at the corner of First Street and Elizabeth Street. The Tegler Building began construction in spring 1911, and Ramsey’s store, occupying 18,000 square feet, opened in the fall of the same year. The building’s construction cost $19,000, with $8,000 allocated for equipment, $6,000 for freight, and $5,000 for unforeseen expenses.
James Ramsey: Edmonton’s “Merchant Prince”
On its opening day, Ramsey’s store earned $7,500 in sales. His business initially employed 60 people, but this number quickly grew to 200 and then 300 as the store gained popularity. Residents favored Ramsey’s store for its affordable prices.
The business flourished, prompting expansion in 1912. By 1913, an extension to the store was completed. In 1915, Ramsey was elected alderman and became actively involved with the Board of Trade and the Chamber of Commerce. He also played a key role in establishing the Edmonton Stock Exchange.
By 1920, Ramsey’s stores occupied over 175,000 square feet. In 1927, a new store opened at 10048 101 Avenue. Over the next 17 years, his stores became Edmonton’s largest and most influential retail chain. In 1920, the Edmonton Bulletin published an article titled “James Ramsey Department Store,” hailing the chain as the beginning of modern retail in the city. The store boasted 20 departments, offering groceries, carpets, home furnishings, and women’s lingerie.
Ramsey’s department store became a one-stop shop for Edmonton residents. The store also offered mail-order services, publishing four catalogs annually to cater to international customers.
A Visionary in Retail
Volume three of Alberta, Past and Present highlighted Ramsey’s exceptional business acumen, noting his deep understanding of merchandising principles. He meticulously studied market conditions and customer needs, employing the most advanced methods of the time.
Ramsey traveled extensively, sourcing goods from around the globe to meet his customers’ demands. In recognition of his contributions to the community, he was appointed Honorary Colonel of the Edmonton Regiment.
In 1928, Ramsey retired, selling his retail empire to T. Eaton Company for $1 million. James Ramsey passed away in 1939 under mysterious circumstances. His legacy as Edmonton’s “Merchant Prince” and a pioneer in retail trade continues to inspire.