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Eastside Trading Company, Olympias Vanished Grocery Store

Olympia, WALocal News

Opening on October 26, 1921, the Eastside Trading Company served as a vital grocery store in Olympia, offering a diverse range of products to the Eastside community. Founders David Gammell and Mr. Ault aimed to attract both local and out-of-town shoppers, emphasizing quality and freshness. The store supported local businesses and joined retail organizations like Unity Purity Stores in 1928, which helped it navigate the Great Depression. In 1935, Gammell sold the business to Carroll S.

Bonsall, while retaining ownership of the building. Following several ownership changes, William Bonsall, a University of Washington graduate, took over in 1956 and expanded the store's services. The Eastside Trading Company joined Associated Grocers Inc. , later rebranded as Serv-U, to adapt to a changing market. Through its various transformations, the store exemplified the evolution of neighborhood grocery businesses in Olympia.

The Eastside Trading Company's legacy provides insight into the importance of local retail in community life.

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