nightmare that preceded opening day. The heaps of clothes to be sized, pressed and marked, the piles of boots, shoes and overshoes which seemed to have lost their mates—how we ever managed to meet the deadline was a miracle. Mayor Hawrelak opened the shop on January 15, 1952, making a very nice speech in spite of dealers rustling through drawers, and old ladies trying on young hats. The shop was crowded due to the 35 degree below temperature.

The Thrift Shop was initially established to provide a steady income for the expansion of League community projects. Members of the Junior Hospital League soon realized that the shop also provided a real service to people of limited income. In 1955, the shop moved to larger premises across from the City Market at 97 Street and 103 Avenue, and its steady clientele continued to support this very successful fundraiser. Another relocation occurred in 1964 when the shop moved to 96 Street and 103 A Avenue.

Over the years, the members of the Junior Hospital League and Junior League of Edmonton were very innovative in obtaining merchandise. "Bundle Teas" were held to obtain thrift from sustainers and associates. New and used clothing was accepted on a commission basis, and major stores donated unsold merchandise. Toy sales, bag sales and a garage sale kept Thrift Shop and, later, Bargain Tree committees busy. Managing staff, marketing promotions, developing displays, continually marking new merchandise, coordinating League volunteers and looking after a rented shop and associated bills were constant challenges for each committee. Members purchases red smocks, which became a symbol of the League for many years.

After closing the downtown location in 1976, the League revived the thrift business in 1982 with the Bargain Tree at 104 Street and Whyte Avenue in Old Strathcona. The competition of many retail and consignment shops, the heavy League commitment of volunteers to manage shifts and the numerous challenges, including an unwanted lodger on the roof, led to a review and discontinuance of the fundraiser in 1988.

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