This Wednesday, May 29, the Belk Corporation will be celebrating its 125th anniversary.

The local Bainbridge Belk store will have an open house at 9 a.m. to celebrate this historic milestone. The original Belk store opened in 1888 in Monroe, N.C., and since that time the company has grown to more than 300 locations in 16 southern states.

Belk has survived two World Wars, the Great Depression, and countless other economic highs and lows. It has evolved to meet the needs of the public throughout those years, and it is impressive to see a company last so long and continue to thrive.

Our local Belk store is also an important part of our local economy. Congratulations Belk, on your 125th anniversary.