| Celebrating 97 Years of Great Service
Eitel's Flowers & Gifts will celebrate its 97th anniversary of business this year. Now under the
ownership of Ken Eitel Jr., it is the only area business to remain in the same family for four generations.
1908: Founded by John and Anna Marie Eitel
, the floral shop was first located on a tract of land in Higert's subdivision. Since that beginning, Eitel's
Flowers has been a part of the Greencastle community, ever-growing and changing.
When John Eitel first considered locating his floral business in Greencastle, he moved from
Indianapolis, purchasing three large greenhouses on Melrose Avenue, which was adjoined by 13 acres.
Eitel's specialized, as it does today, in cut flowers, but also had interest in growing vegetables,
selling at retail and wholesale. The retail portion of the business continued for five years at Melrose site located adjacent
to the Eitel's residence. The home was later relocated to Higert Street, where it remains occupied today. |
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In 1913, the retail division was moved with the purchase of a greenhouse at the corner of Vine and Franklin streets. At this time, the business added John's son, Jacob, to the floral company. Jacob joined the firm after gaining experience working in Indianapolis at other floral shops. In 1926, this property was sold.
Eitel's Flowers relocated to the south side of East Washington Street in Greencastle in June 1926. The purchase of buildings in this area was conducted with Andrew B. Hanna on June 25, 1925. The business remained at this site until the death of John Eitel. The property was then sold to Joseph P. and Allen Jr.
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Following the death of John Eitel, and the subsequent sale of the East Washington street property, Eitel's Flowers moved north to the north side of East Washington, a site which houses the Loan Department and First Citizens Bank and Trust Company.
It was during this period that Kenneth J. Eitel Sr., the son of Jacob and a third-generation Eitel, entered the business. Ken Eitel Sr. attended DePauw University. He later graduated from Purdue University with a major in horticulture.
With the death of Ken Eitel Sr. in 1974, Eitel's Flowers Inc. remained under
the ownership of Mrs. Elizabeth Eitel, until purchased by Ken Eitel Jr. and his wife, Jackie. A major
remodeling has since been done, and remodeling continues today.
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Eitel’s Flowers & Gifts has been Greencastle’
s florist since 1908. We specialize in fresh cut flowers for any occasion and have a wide selection of gift
items for Greencastle and the surrounding Putnam County. As Greencastle’s premier flower shop, we
offer prompt flower delivery. We are thankful for your business and appreciate our loyal customers.
With 97 years as a family florist, we offer quality flowers, prompt service and assured satisfaction. |