Mark Thomas started “The Alley” when he was just 17, and as it celebrates its 50th anniversary, he hopes there will be more to come.
In order for that to happen, Thomas is seeking a successor to take over the iconic business that currently calls the Avondale neighborhood home after spending decades at the intersection of Clark and Belmont.
The front door to The Alley spells out its mission perfectly.
“It says on my door, this is a safe place for weirdos, freaks and misfits,” Thomas said. “But it’s not just that, it’s for all kids, people who need a place to feel like themselves.”
Its walls and racks are filled with studs, spikes, boots and branded tees. The shop has been this way for nearly 50 years.
Unfortunately for fans of the shop, its future remains uncertain.On Monday, Thomas posted a call-to-action video on social media.
“Honestly, I don’t know how many more years I can go on and do this,” he explained. “I hope you’ll all support me while I’ll look for a successor.”
brought in hundreds of comments, with many customers sharing their memories and notes of support.
“People come in, they come in from young to old,” said Trevor Windhurst, a customer-turned-employee of the store. “And still, we get old people coming in and acting like they are young. It’s fantastic!”
Thomas started The Alley when he was 17. He’s now 71. He said he works 60-70 hours week, while facing some health issues, and simply cannot go on in this manner.
However, finding a new keeper of The Alley is not easy.
“There’s gotta be a future for The Alley,” Thomas said. “When I’m uncapable or when I pass, I don’t want The Alley to pass.”
There is a block party to celebrate the store’s 50th anniversary on June 14th. It’s free to the public and an opportunity for Mark to see longtime customers and former employees. He hopes it’s not the last anniversary of the store that spans generations.
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