Charles Weston Hay owned a shoe store next to the First National Bank (now Bank of Marion) at 302 Public Square. This store was destroyed by fire on February 10, 1916 along with the bank and he built a new building in September, 1917 which was designated 304 Public Square.

This building, located in the middle section of what is now the Bank of Marion on the North West side of the Marion Tower Square Plaza, was one of the most modern and best ladies’ stores in Southern Illinois and was known as Hay’s Mercantile Co.

This store was considered as the place to buy the latest style at the right prices. Mr. Hay was known as a “styleologist” and maintained this reputation by selling the famous French-American line of apparel of which no two garments were alike. The best goods for the best stores, such as Saroses shoes; Madam Grace corsets, LaFrance underwear. Onyx and Everwear hosiery were sold in this store.

As evidenced by his ads, he was also a “shoeologist” extraordinaire. According to directories, Hay began selling boots and shoes prior to 1907 but by the 1920’s was specializing in fine women’s clothing and shoes. He maintained a store at this location until the mid 1930’s when it is no longer listed.

Hay did however remain active in real estate and other ventures with the city of Marion until his death in 1967. The home of the Hay’s family for decades was 513 S. Market St.

(Data from 1989 Sesquicentennial History, WCHS; Williamson County in WWI, WCHS; Marion City Directories; Compiled by Sam Lattuca on 02/28/2013)