Central Camera Company was destroyed by fire on May 30th, 2020. The destruction followed a day of nationwide protests sparked by the killing of George Floyd by police in Minneapolis. “I’m angered about what started it” said owner Don Flesch in a TV interview, as he watched Chicago firefighters work to save the store. “I hope that everyone is safe” said Don, who vowed “we’re going to rebuild it and make it just as good or better.”

Nobody was injured in the fire – Don and all of Central Camera’s employees are safe. Don was able to save the first camera ever sold at Central Camera Company, which had been proudly displayed for years in the store’s famous Wabash Avenue showcase windows.

The destruction came at a difficult time for Central Camera Company, which has faced adversity in recent years. Our basement was severely damaged by flooding following the ‘Polar Vortex’ deep freeze of January 2019, and we’ve faced a substantial rent increase by the store’s building owner. Central Camera has been closed since early March 2020 for the Covid19 public health emergency, which has severely impacted business.

However, our customers are extremely loyal, and the resurgence of film photography has helped business to remain strong. Central Camera Company celebrated its 121st year in business this year, and we plan to be around for many years to come with your help. The Flesch family has set up a fundraiser with a goal of $250,000 to help reopen the store. Customers and photography lovers around the world have responded with an outpouring of generosity, and we’ve raised over $125,000 in less than 24 hours towards our goal!

Central Camera Company is also selling t-shirts for those who wish to show their support and love for the store.

We also encourage you to learn about and support organizations working for justice and accountability:

• George Floyd Memorial Fund
• Chicago Community Bond Fund
• Know Your Rights Camp
• The Bail Project
• The National Bail Fund Network
• NAACP Legal Defense FundCommunities United Against Police Brutality
• Minnesota Freedom Fund
• Black Visions Collective
• Reclaim The Block

Sincere thanks to everyone who has contacted us with well-wishes and encouragement. We’ll be posting updates about progress with re-opening our business. Look forward to seeing you again soon!