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As a downtown landmark in Elko, NV, Anacabe’s-Elko General Merchandise has been the area’s premier work clothing and footwear retailer for more than 80 years. Also known as simply “Elko General Merchandise,” this establishment maintains all the old-world feel and unique charm of a classic general store, and has been owned and operated by the Anacabe family for several generations.

Joe Anacabe immigrated from the old Basque Country to the United States in 1901 at the age of 11. He first found work at the area’s local ranches before moving to McDermitt with his wife Fabiana and young son Frank in the 1920s. Soon after, the family would open their first store. After relocating to Berkeley, CA, for a brief period while Frank attended the University of California, the Anacabes settled in Elko.

[work clothing] Elko General Merchandise made its debut in 1936, originally located on the corner of Fourth and Idaho Street. This establishment quickly made itself known as the finest purveyor of the best work clothing and cowboy garments that money could buy, and was even the first in Elko to sell women’s riding pants. Fellow immigrants, in particular, were drawn to the fellowship offered by Fabiana and Joe, and large groups were known to gather in the shop as friends reminisced about their home country.

Frank joined the family business in 1950. Four years later, he and his wife Margaret had a daughter named Anita and jumped right in to the family business, moving it to its current location at 416 Idaho Street.

After the separate passing of both Joe and Frank in the 1970s, Anita and Margaret took over the shop. After completing a business education degree at Boise State University, Anita married Mike Franzoia, and together, along with their four children, the couple runs Anacabe’s-Elko General Merchandise to this day.

Since its beginnings, this specialty shop has outfitted Elko’s hardworking ranchers, miners, lineman and more with the hardwearing garments and footwear that they need to complete their jobs safely and effectively. These retailers carry a vast selection of work clothing, steel-toed footwear, safety equipment and more. Learn more about this Elko staple by visiting their Chamber of Commerce website, or by calling (775) 738-3295.