A piece of Vincennes history was officially recognized today with the unveiling of a new state historical marker honoring Adam Gimbel. The dedication ceremony took place at the corner of Second and Main Streets—long known as Gimbel Corner—where Gimbel opened his first store in the mid-1800s.
The event coincided with what would have been Gimbel’s 208th birthday. A Jewish immigrant from Bavaria, Gimbel launched the business that grew into the nationally known Gimbel Brothers department store chain.
Descendants of Adam Gimbel, including his great-great-grandson, made their first trip to Vincennes for the dedication. John Gimbel, who is from New England, said he ended up in Boston after college.
“I’m thrilled to be here—it’s incredible. It’s been a great experience,” he said. When asked about his impression of Indiana’s First City, he added, “I really like it. I’m not that familiar with small towns, having lived in New York City and Boston.” He also noted that his father was the last in the family line to work at the company’s corporate headquarters.
In addition to marking local history, the new marker highlights the broader Jewish business presence in southern Indiana. Michael Brown, executive director of the Indiana Jewish Historical Society—which co-sponsored the effort—spoke about the Gimbel family’s legacy.
“They really shaped business history. They were a transparent family that was willing to take risks. They were a charitable family and gave to many students at Vincennes University, helping to start their careers. Many people got their start right here on this corner,” he said.
The new marker is the 11th state historical marker in Knox County.
