Century Pens
231 South La Salle Street
Chicago, Illinois
Web Site: www.centurypenschicago.com
This new pen store in Chicago is one of the largest stores operated by long time pen retailed Ed Hamilton.
The store has over 1,400 square feet and is located in the financial district of Chicago at 231 S. La Salle Street across the street from the Board of Trade. The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and the Federal Plaza are in the same area.
Located in a small mall with 10 retail stores. The store carries pens from over 25 companies. Ed continues the popular tradition of Pen Days that he started at Stevens. in 1994.
I regularly hear good comments on the stores. Comments such as:
"The store is a wonderful boutique and the proprietor is tremendously helpful. While I was only buying a new piston converter for my Dupont, he was so enthusiastic about the new pens, he insisted that I try writing with a few. A great experience and a wonderful store."
Thanks- A. Jackson
"... quick to let me try a pen."
Thanks J. Hubbard 2010
Gilbertson Clybourn
55 E Chicago Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60611
Tel: (312) 573-8075
I had the opportunity to visit this store on my 2006 visit to Chicago. It is relatively easy to find. Just walk the Magnificent Mile north in the same direction of the John Hancock building. Then just before you reach that building, turn west on East Chicago. It is located just over a block of Michigan as you head towards State Street.
Daniel Collins is the Manager and the store has been is business for at this location for eight years and operating in Chicago for some 25 years. The store may have a "bare bones" look when you view it through the window, but go inside and you will find a fair selection of pens and they are willing to order a particular item if it is not in stock.
Previously Scott Powell wrote to tell me that "Mr. Collins is knowledgeable and friendly. He'll take plenty of time with you. You will be a customer for life. Good selection of inks." This is only confirmed as a colleague of mine, Bob Nakagawa, recently visited the store, getting a great new Delta - the Planet Series - in the process, and confirms: great service, no rush, no problem dipping all the pens you want to try out. Good selection of pens and inks. This is the only independent pen store left in Chicago, and it is the place to go when in town.
I continue to receive good feedback on the store. "Well stocked, friendly and helpful." Thanks. J. Hubbard 2010