Epstein Brothers

Long before modern storefronts lined Manitoba Avenue, the Epstein family left a lasting imprint on Selkirk’s business and community life. Through entrepreneurship, generosity, and deep local involvement, several members of the Epstein family helped shape the town’s commercial and social fabric.

Sam Epstein’s Dry Goods 234 Manitoba Ave
Sol Epstein’s Dry Goods 244 Manitoba Ave

Sam Epstein

Born in 1907 in Poland, Sam Epstein immigrated to Canada in either 1926 or 1929 (sources differ), arriving with his parents and two siblings. The family initially settled in Winnipeg, but by around 1931, Sam made his way to Selkirk. His first job was modest—delivering flyers—but it marked the beginning of a remarkable journey.

In April 1932, Sam seized an opportunity to open his own business: Sam Epstein’s Dry Goods, located in the 230 block of Manitoba Avenue, in the original site of Neskar Jewellers. It was the start of what would become a cornerstone of Selkirk’s retail scene.

Sam Epstein's Flyer, 1963 — Sam Epstein’s Flyer, 1963, Selkirk Enterprise

In 1935, Sam married Anne Lubotta (1908–1970), who was also born in Poland. Together, they built both a family and a business in Selkirk. Anne played an active role in the store’s day-to-day operations until her passing. The couple had one son, Barry, who tragically died in 1957 at the age of 16.

Anne Epstein Obituary — Anne Epstein, 1970, Winnipeg Tribune

Sam’s business thrived. He offered a wide range of clothing and footwear, with advertisements often featuring memorable slogans like “You Can Always Do Better at Sam’s” and “Clothing and Footwear for the Entire Family.”In 1940, the store expanded and relocated to 234 Manitoba Ave. The second floor of the building also became a hub for Jewish community activities.

Even setbacks couldn’t slow him down. In January 1943, a fire tore through the nearby Nordal Block, causing damage to Sam’s store. Despite this, the business recovered and continued to serve the community.

Fire Near Sam Epstein's Store — Fire Near Sam Epstein’s Store, 1943, Winnipeg Free Press

Beyond retail, Sam was deeply committed to Selkirk. He supported numerous local initiatives through volunteering and donations, and even funded a bursary for local students.

After 43 years in business, Sam retired in July 1975. The store was taken over by Edmond Zygarliski and renamed Zygarliski’s Clothing and Footwear. To mark his retirement, the Selkirk business community honoured him with a farewell dinner, where he received several gifts—including an honorary citizen scroll presented by deputy mayor Tim Taylor on behalf of town council. Reflecting on his career, Sam credited his success to those around him, saying he “had a wonderful life as a merchant in Selkirk.”

Black and white photo of Sam Epstein turning the keys over to Edmon Zygarliski — Sam Epstein Turns Keys Over to Edmon Zygarliski, 1975, Selkirk Enterprise

Sol Epstein

Sam’s brother, Sol Epstein, also made his mark in Selkirk’s retail world. He operated Sol Epstein’s Dry Goods at 244 Manitoba Avenue for nearly 20 years, opening the store in 1953.

Although Sol and his family lived in Winnipeg, he remained committed to his Selkirk business. He was known not only as a merchant but also for his generosity—regularly donating items such as baby blankets and clothing to celebrate the first baby born in Selkirk each year.

Sol's First Baby of the Year Offering — Sol’s First Baby of the Year Offering, 1964, Selkirk Enterprise

Sol retired in February 1974, beginning the process of closing his store. He passed the business on to Dave McLaren and Frank Morantz of the S.O.S. Department Store. Shortly after, in April, Fr. Art Seaman—chairman of Selkirk’s new swimming pool project—took over the remaining stock, with proceeds going toward construction of the new facility.