Gone are the days of bustling shoppers. The Woodmar Mall once stood here. It was a vibrant hub. Now only memories remain.
Woodmar was more than just a shopping mall. It was a cornerstone of the Hammond Indiana community. The Woodmar neighborhood itself thrived around it. Think of the families who shopped there. They strolled through its aisles. They gathered for events. It was a social center. A place to connect. A place to be.
The mall opened in 1954. Victor Gruen designed it. He was a famous architect. Gruen is known for his innovative mall designs. The Woodmar Mall was one of his creations. It featured a unique “V” shape. A Carson Pirie Scott and Co store was its anchor. The store was the first of its kind in Indiana. It’s a little known fact. But it’s true. The mall expanded over the years. It even included mini-malls within the main structure. The “Court of Lions” was one of them. The design was inspired by the Alhambra Palace in Spain. Amazing.
In its heyday Woodmar was a major destination. Families flocked there. People came from far and wide. This was more than just shopping. This was an experience. But times changed. Competition from other malls arose. The Woodmar Mall faced challenges. Its popularity waned. Sadly it eventually closed. In 2006 the mall was largely demolished. Only the Carson’s store remained for a time. Then that was also gone. A sports complex now stands in its place.
The ghosts of Woodmar Mall may linger. Memories of family outings and holiday shopping. Yet the Woodmar neighborhood continues to thrive. The neighborhood embraces its history. It is a testament to resilience. The legacy of Woodmar lives on in the hearts of those who remember it. The Woodmar community continues. It is strong.