After 24 Years, Wheeling’s Imperial Teacher Store Says Goodbye

Imperial Teacher Store, 24 Years of Serving Local Teachers

After 24 incredible years, the Imperial Teacher’s Store is closing its doors. As we celebrate over two decades of service to the community, let’s take a look at the store’s rich history, Cathy Jackson’s dedication to preserving local traditions, a teacher’s cherished memories, and information about the closing sales.

The 1950s Imperial Display

Before the Imperial Teacher’s Store, there was the iconic Imperial Display, a unique shopping experience in Downtown Wheeling. Located at 1040 Main Street and owned by the Mendelson family, the Imperial Display was unlike any other shopping destination. Spanning five interconnected storefronts, the store offered an enchanting experience to shoppers.

Each of the five storefronts had its own specialty: a Christmas store, a paper goods and party supplies store, a fabric store, a craft store, and the beloved Teacher’s Store. Visitors could leisurely explore each space, spending hours browsing the products and displays. For many, the Imperial Display was nothing short of magical—a cornerstone of downtown Wheeling’s charm.

However, tragedy struck on Easter Sunday in 1996. A devastating three-alarm fire tore through the Imperial Display, calling in all off-duty firefighters and even assistance from Ohio. The blaze destroyed four of the five buildings, leaving only the Teacher’s Store standing. Though the business relocated after the fire, the rising cost of rent eventually forced the Imperial Display to close its doors.

Years later, in 2003, Cathy Jackson revived the spirit of this cherished establishment by opening the Imperial Teacher’s Store, continuing the legacy for a new generation.

To learn more about the history of the Imperial Display, click here: Imperial Display Christmas Shop – A Wheeling Tradition

Cathy Jackson Opens the Imperial Teacher’s Store

Fueled by her love for the original Imperial Display, Cathy Jackson opened the Imperial Teacher’s Store as a retirement project. Her memories of the magic in downtown Wheeling inspired her to carry on its traditions and create a space where teachers and the community could come together.

As customers visited the Imperial Teacher’s Store, many fondly reminisced about Imperial Display’s Christmas Shore. Listening to their nostalgia, Cathy expanded the business and began selling Christmas products. They soon ran out of space for both stores and she expanded The Imperial Christmas Store to the building next door. 

A Local Teacher’s Memories

Renee Schneid, a teacher at Our Lady of Peace School with 40 years of experience, has many fond memories of the Imperial Teacher’s Store.

For over a decade, Renee shopped at the store for various classroom supplies such as posters, workbooks, and decorations. One of her favorite purchases was a birthday chart that displayed her students’ birthdays

Renee had also purchased seasonal welcome signs, which added some cheer to her classroom. She recently passed these items down to her daughter, who is also a teacher, ensuring the tradition continues on.

Years ago, when Renee received the Teacher of the Year Award, she was gifted a certificate to the Imperial Teacher’s Store. “I was very appreciative of that,” Renee recalled, “I thought it was such a thoughtful gesture.”

Closing Sales

There’s still time to visit the Imperial Teacher’s Store before it closes! Don’t miss the opportunity to explore their final sales and bid farewell to this treasured establishment. Visit the store through February for exclusive deals on educational materials and more. All items in the Teacher’s Store are marked 50%-90% off. The Imperial Christmas Store is also still open for shopping. Please call ahead before visiting The Imperial Christmas Store. 

The Imperial Teacher’s Store Hours:

Monday- Friday: 10:00-6:00

Saturday: 10:00-4:00

Sunday: Closed

Thank You, Cathy Jackson!

We extend our gratitude to Cathy Jackson for providing 24 years of exceptional service in downtown Wheeling. Her passion for preserving Wheeling’s history, creating magical shopping experiences, and supporting local educators has left a wonderful legacy!

Cathy’s energy, vision, and dedication are what make downtown Wheeling a more vibrant and meaningful place! Thank you for everything you’ve done to bring joy and inspiration to so many.