One of the biggest mercantile deals ever consummated in Bemidji was closed, when D. S. Segal of Superior, became the new owner of the Berman Dry goods emporium. The Berman emporium has been in continuous operation in Bemidji for the past twelve years, and has grown from a small country stock to one of the largest in North Central Minnesota. The business was first begun in the present Abercrombie stand on Beltrami avenue. Later it was moved into the Trask laundry building near the Union station. Eight years ago, it was moved into its present quarters, where several changes have been made. (March 26, 1914)
The company changed its name to the Segal Emporium. Mrs. L. L. Berman will move from Bemidji. In Ike Blooston, who has been connected with the Berman Emporium since its organization, Bemidji has had a live wire booster of the first rank. “Ike” has always been considered a leader among his numerous bachelor friends who will miss his advice and council on problems pertaining to matrimony. That he knows the dry goods business is evidenced by the fact that the Berman store has one of the cleanest and most up-to-date stocks in the state. He was the store’s chief buyer and his judgment of merchandise was above par. His going will be a loss to Bemidji.