Nashua's Shoe Store Since 1938
Alec's Shoes opened in Nashua, New Hampshire in 1938 with a simple idea: help people find the right shoes. From the beginning, that meant carrying a broad selection so we could serve just about everyone who walked through the door.
For more than 85 years, through moves, fires, and decades of change, our focus has stayed the same: large selection, knowledgeable guidance, and a straightforward approach to helping customers find the right shoe.
The Doors Open on Pearl Street
Alec's Shoes opened its first location on Pearl Street in Nashua, NH — a focused shop built around one idea: help people find the right shoe at a fair price.
This original advertisement from the Nashua Telegraph announced the store's grand opening to the community on August 25, 1938.
Fire Destroys the Pearl Street Store
On April 4, 1960, a fire tore through the West Pearl Street block, destroying Alec's Shoes along with two neighboring storefronts.
Reopening Across the Street
Just months after the fire, Alec's was back. The store reopened on August 18, 1960 in a temporary location directly across the street while the Pearl Street site was renovated.
This Nashua Telegraph announcement made clear that Alec's wasn't going anywhere.
Moving to Main Street
In 1995, Alec's moved to a landmark downtown location — taking over the former Miller's Department Store on Main Street. It was the biggest space the store had ever occupied.
The Main Street era brought Alec's to the heart of the city and introduced generations of new customers to what the store was all about.
1617 Southwood Drive
Alec's found its permanent home at 1617 Southwood Drive in 2016 — a spacious store with over 100 brands across every category: athletic, casual, comfort, work, outdoor, dress, and kids.
The name on the door has stayed the same for over 85 years. So has the mission: help you find the right shoe with knowledgeable service