Claussen’s Menswear closing for good on Saturday; new era for the cornerfront begins

SIOUX CITY (KTIV) – It’s the end of an era for one well-known store in Le Mars, Iowa.

Claussen’s Menswear closes for good on Saturday, Dec. 16, with the whole store offering deals of up to 80% off.

For the last 33 years, Claussen’s Menswear has been located on the corner of Central Avenue NW in Le Mars.

“There has always been a clothing store on this corner, in Le Mars. Almost since day 1 in almost 125 years,” said Owner Terry Claussen, who has worked 45 years in retail.

Claussen opened his first clothing store in 1978 in Sibley, Iowa. In 1990, He took over the storefront on Central Ave, continuing the legacy of having a clothing store in that location.

“A lot has changed over the years. When I first came here there was no secret that there were a lot of stores in the area. One by one, they retired for whatever reasons. We were able to hold off and stay here in support of the community and the area. Not to say it’s without struggles,” said Claussen. The last several years have been really good, which has made it tough to make the decision.”

Over three decades later, Claussen is now closing this chapter and selling out all of its inventory to get it ready for its next owner.

Claussen has been able to help generations of families with important events that deserve a nice outfit.

Claussen recalled a few memories during his sit-down with KTIV.

“A few weeks ago a young man wrote me a note. I started with him doing his prom tuxes, got him his first suit, did his wedding, and helped him with some of his clothes getting his career started here. He was the third generation. I helped his grandpa,” recounted Claussen.

Chad Mescher started working for Claussen’s in August of this year.

Mescher is taking over the storefront on Jan. 1, 2024.

“I want to keep the tradition alive on the corner of keep owning it a men’s clothing store,” said Mescher.

He wants to dress the community in ties, suits, casual wear, sports apparel and golf wear.

“I did not think I would own a clothing store, but with the timing – it is what it is. It’s meant to be,” said Mescher, excited for what the future holds for his family in Le Mars.

“The kind words of people lately, who have expressed their appreciation for a lot of nice things have been said. I’ll remember that a lot,” added Claussen.

As one door closes, another store opens.

Terry said in his retirement he is going to do some traveling with his family.

As for Mescher, he will have a grand opening of Mescher’s Clothing in March 2024.

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