The History of Gene Allen's Gifts
Gene
Allen's Gifts represents over 40 years of excellent customer service and
dedication to its employees. It all began in March of 1959 when
Gene Allen came to Arlington to join his brother who had just purchased
Park Row Pharmacy.
In
September 1965, Gene and his wife Nancy opened Randol Mill Pharmacy at
Randol Mill and Fielder. Gene Allen's Other Place opened next in 1969
at Park Row and Bowen. Mrs. Allen was manager, and she soon became
the gift buyer for the stores. She continued to manage the store
until she moved her office in 1973 to their new gourmet store, The Wooden
Spoon.
The
Allen's opened Gene Allen's Gifts in Grand Prairie in 1976. In 1980,
Gene Allen's Gifts and Randol Mill Pharmacy moved into a larger location
with 10,750 square feet, and the gift store was formally separated from
the Pharmacy. A south Arlington location was opened at Little Road and
1-20 in 1984.
Mr.
Allen sold Randol Mill Pharmacy in 1991, and moved it into an adjoining
space, also completing an expansion and remodel. Gene Allen's now
occupies the full 10,750 square feet, making it one of the largest card
and gift shops in the metroplex.
Mr.
Allen sold his three locations in February of 1996 to the former gift
buyer and general manager, Connie Gauntt and her husband Doug. Connie
worked closely with Mr. Allen for many years and shares his vision of
continued success for the stores.
The
traditions and values Mr. Allen instilled over 37 years ago will continue
to be the cornerstone of Gene Allen's Gifts future.
