We recently headed down memory lane to look back at one of Belfast's former iconic department stores, Anderson & McAuley.
It certainly struck a chord with our Belfast Live readers as they shared their fond memories on our Facebook page of the shop that used to reside on the corner of Donegall Place and Castle Street. It comes as no surprise that the department store holds a special place for generations of us as it was part of the fabric of our city for over 130 years.
Have a read of some of the memories of Anderson & McAuley shared by our Belfast Live readers, including customers and former staff.
Read more: Belfast remembers - Robb's Department Store
The Staff
Former staff of the city centre store couldn't say enough good things about their time working at Anderson & McAuley's - which is a true testament to how both customers and staff alike were treated with the utmost respect.
Former employee Anne Prior said: "My first job after leaving school was in this beautiful department store. The Anderson family were good people to work for and took an interest in their staff".
Barbara Murtagh commented: "An amazing place to work. Such fond memories", and Judith Acheson echoed a similar sentiment, saying: "I absolutely loved working here! Hosiery, handbags, gifts, china and haberdashery. Staff were brilliant - so many happy memories!"
Not only do former customers have fond memories of the shop itself but also of the staff who used to work there. Marion Chisholm commented: "The staff were so helpful, if you wanted something in another colour they checked the catalogue and if it was made they ordered it for you".
The Purchases
Many people shared their nostalgic memories of the special items they purchased from the department store back in its trading days that they still have today.
Sarah Cairns shared: "Loved Anderson & McAuley was a dream to go into even as a child. I still have two beautiful American quilt sets with pillow shams my mum bought me in closing down sale".
The prestigious shop was one of the go-to destinations in the city to purchase items for special occasions in our lives such as wedding days. Mags Shaw got married during the 70s and made her milestone purchase with Anderson & McAuley, saying: "Bought my wedding dress and headdress in 1976 in this wonderful shop".
Christmas
Anderson & McAuley will be most remembered for the impact it made in Belfast in creating such a magical atmosphere at Christmas.
From the fascinating window displays to visiting Santa, for decades it was the highlight of many people's childhoods and will always remind them of special moments shared with family.
Martina Magee commented: "Loved their windows at Xmas as a child. Miss big stores like that bring character to a city".
Stephen Morrison said: "When it was Christmas every year the window displays and the whole shop was decorated in amazing tradition. A time when it really was enjoyable. Many shops and corporations could learn many things from this former high street giant of Northern Ireland".
Let us know in the comments of other former Belfast shops that bring back memories for you.
To get more nostalgia stories straight to your inbox, sign up to our free newsletter.
