OUR STORY
With roots extending back to 1944, Bullocks Clothing Store located on the corner of 8th Street and Grand Avenue, is one of the oldest family-owned retail businesses in the Roaring Fork Valley. It offers an array of western-style men's and women's clothing, artwork, home furnishings and gifts. As the store is regularly adding new merchandise, the Bullock family also embraces its history with Glenwood Springs.
HOTEL GLENWOOD
The original building that stood on the corner was the upscale Hotel Glenwood. When George and Ann Bullock purchased the store from Mr. Julius Wulfshon, it was located inside of the Hotel and was already a successful retail business for 50 years. The Bullocks continued to offer quality goods and customer service as a haberdashery, a men's clothing and furnishings store.
DOC HOLLIDAY'S FINAL DAYS
Built in 1884, the Hotel accommodated up to 200 and retail space. John Henry "Doc" Holliday also resided on the third floor, northeast corner room of the Hotel in his final months battling tuberculosis. His best friend, Wyatt Earp, visited Doc by his bedside. Hoping the dry air and hot springs would case his symptoms, he succumbed to the disease November 8, 1887. During World War II the U.S. Naval Convalescent Hospital was commissioned at the Hotel Colorado which caused a housing shortage. As a result, many families moved into the Hotel Glenwood even though it was in poor condition.
FROM ASHES TO NEW BEGINNINGS
On the evening of December 13th, 1945, the Bullocks witnessed the hotel burn to the ground from their apartment patio across the river. Six people died as a result of the fire. Glenwood stood, offered to sell it to the Bullocks. They settled on a deal and construction began on a two-story building in 1949, and relocated the store upon its completion in 1951.
THE NEXT GENERATION
At the same time, the next generation of the Bullock family became involved, William (Bill) and his wife Doris. After Bill's service in WW II, the couple ran the store for over 50 years. During this time, the Bullocks Department Store expanded to several locations including Glenwood, Aspen, Breckenridge, Vail, Steamboat and Grand Junction. With the passing of Bill in 2004, Bullocks closed its doors. More than 20 years later, Bill and Doris' youngest son, Bill, reopened the store in the building his grandfather constructed on 8th and Grand. With the help of Bill's sister, Jan, brother Roger and a hardworking staff, the store is thriving again today.
SHOPPING AT BULLOCKS
Upon visiting Bullocks, shoppers enjoy the western décor, merchandise and its history. The store sells clothing, furniture, handmade rugs and artwork. The basement, constructed of red rock is the foundation of the Hotel Glenwood. As a tribute to the local history, and in partnership with the Glenwood Springs Historical Society and the Frontier Museum, it is home to The Doc Holliday Collection.
KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY
Bullocks Clothing Store follows closely in the footsteps of their grandparents as combination of western elegance and friendly service. Doris said it best, "We appreciate all of our customers, both locals and visitors." She continued, "The best thing about being in business is the opportunity to form wonderful relationships with our customers."
Bill Bullock
Bill Bullock Sr. began the Bullock’s legacy with his original department store, a place known for friendly service, hard work, and a deep connection to the community. What started as his vision for a small-town store built on honesty and quality has grown into Bullock’s Western Wear — a continuation of his values and the family tradition he started decades ago.