A Century of Tradition: The Journey of Stark & Legum
1924: The Dual Beginnings of Stark & Legum Stark & Legum was founded in 1924 as a pawnbroker that also specialized in selling high-quality second-hand goods. This dual focus allowed the store to serve the Norfolk community in more ways than one. As a pawnbroker, Stark & Legum became a tru
sted name, offering fair and reliable financial services during a time when many relied on such businesses to make ends meet. Simultaneously, the store’s selection of carefully curated second-hand goods provided customers with access to quality merchandise at affordable prices. From its inception, Stark & Legum was more than just a business; it was a lifeline for the community, offering both financial assistance and access to stylish, affordable clothing and goods.
1955: A New Chapter at the Historic Attucks Theatre The year 1955 marked a significant milestone for Stark & Legum as the store relocated to the historic Attucks Theatre in Norfolk. This move was more than just a change of address; it was a deepening of the store’s connection to the community. The Attucks Theatre, often referred to as the "Apollo of the South," was built in 1919 and 
named in honor of Crispus Attucks, an African American man who was the first person killed in the Boston Massacre and is widely regarded as the first martyr of the American Revolution. The theatre quickly became a cultural hub for the African American community in Norfolk, hosting legendary performers like Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, and Nat King Cole.
By moving into this iconic building, Stark & Legum became part of a rich cultural tapestry, contributing to the vibrancy of Norfolk's historic district. The Attucks Theatre not only provided a prestigious location for the store but also underscored its role as a pillar of the community. The move symbolized Stark & Legum's commitment to serving a diverse clientele and solidified its reputation as a trusted and respected business in Norfolk.
1990: A Strategic Move to 739 Granby Street The 1990s ushered in another important chapter for Stark & Legum as the store relocated to 739 Granby Street. This move was strategically significant, positioning the store in one of Norfolk’s most prominent and accessible locations. The new address allowed
Stark & Legum to better serve its growing customer base, providing a more spacious and inviting environment for shoppers.
For more than three decades, 739 Granby Street became synonymous with the Stark & Legum experience. The store flourished in this location, continuing its tradition of offering high-quality men’s apparel and exceptional customer service. This period saw the business adapting to changing fashion trends while remaining true to its roots, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of the Norfolk community.
2013: A New Generation of Leadership In 2013, Stark & Legum entered a new chapter as the business transitioned to the capable
hands of Mike Benton and Harrison E. Benton Jr., who took over from longtime owner Sonny Legum. This change in leadership marked a significant moment in the store’s history, as Mike and Harrison brought fresh energy and new ideas while honoring the legacy that Sonny Legum had built. Under their stewardship, Stark & Legum continued to uphold its reputation for quality and service, with a renewed focus on modernizing the business to meet the evolving needs of its customers. Their leadership ensured that Stark & Legum remained a cornerstone of the Norfolk community, just as it had been for nearly a century.
2014: Expansion and New Horizons Building on the momentum of the previous year, 2014 saw the expansion of Stark & Legum with the opening of a
new location at Bowie Town Center in Maryland. This move represented a bold step forward for the business, bringing the Stark & Legum experience to a broader audience beyond Norfolk. Mike and Harrison Benton spearheaded this expansion, driven by their vision to grow the brand while maintaining the core values that had made the original store a success. Although the Bowie location has since closed, its impact during its operation was significant, demonstrating the Bentons' commitment to expanding their reach and adapting to new markets.
2021: Resilience Amidst the Pandemic and a New Beginning The year 2021 was one of the most challenging in Stark & Legum's long history. Like many businesses, the store was deeply affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The lockdowns and restrictions forced the store to close temporarily, and even after reopening, the challenges were far from over. Soon after welcoming 
customers back, Stark & Legum faced another hurdle: the need to move from its long-standing location at 739 Granby Street.
Despite these obstacles, the resilience that had defined Stark & Legum for nearly a century came to the fore. The store was able to relocate just six doors down to 723 Granby Street, ensuring continuity for its loyal customers. The grand reopening in July 2021 was a moment of triumph and renewal. It not only marked the beginning of a new chapter for the business but also demonstrated the enduring strength and adaptability of Stark & Legum. The new location, while close to the previous one, represented a fresh start, allowing the store to continue its legacy of quality and service in the heart of Norfolk.
Download the 100th Anniversary Event Book from our Celebration in September to read more about the history of Stark & Legum.
2024: Celebrating 100 Years As we approach 2024, Stark & Legum stands on the threshold of our 100th anniversary. This milestone is not just a celebration of our past but a testament to our future. We look forward to continuing to serve our community, with the same dedication to quality and service that has been our hallmark for the last century. Here's to the next 100 years of Stark & Legum, where tradition meets innovation, and where every customer becomes a part of our enduring legacy.