A message to the community from Owner, Kim Camara; To my valued customers, friends, and community,
“It is with a heavy heart, immense pride, and profound gratitude that I announce my retirement and the complete closure of Yesteryear Cyclery after 111 years in business.” The last day of business is targeted for Dec. 31st.
For three generations, this store has been the heart of my family and a meaningful part of our lives. In 1915, my grandfather, Adriano Camara, arrived in the United States from Madeira, Portugal. He was an illiterate immigrant with little more than a few dollars in his pocket and a dream for a better life. Through sheer grit, determination, and an unwavering work ethic, he founded this business and built a life for our family.
Even during the darkest days of the Great Depression, his hard work and perseverance allowed him to prosper. His example became the foundation upon which our family and this business were built.
Following his service in World War II, my father stepped up to take over the reins in the 1940s. He successfully ran the shop until his retirement in 1985. That same year, I made the difficult decision to leave college during my junior year, step into his shoes as president, and carry our family legacy forward.
For as long as I can remember, I have never shied away from hard work. Since my teenage years, I have proudly devoted 60-hour, six-day workweeks to serving this community and keeping our family business going.
Now, at 73 years old, with declining health, rising costs of doing business, and no next generation to whom I can pass the torch, I have come to the difficult decision that it is time for me to retire and cease all operations.
While closing these doors brings great sadness, I also feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. I want to thank the generations of loyal customers who supported our family, trusted us with their bicycles, shared their stories with us, and welcomed us into their lives. Over the years, many of you became far more than customers — you became friends and part of our extended family.
Serving you and this community has truly been the honor of a lifetime.
As I look back on 111 years of memories, hard work, friendships, and family, I am incredibly proud of what my grandfather started, what my father carried forward, and what I have been fortunate enough to continue. Click here if you want to watch his video message posted up to the page: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1dLYu7XRRY/
Thank you for 111 unforgettable years.
With sincere gratitude,
Kim S. Camara
President & CEO
Yesteryear Cyclery
