The present location of Esteps, which you know and love, has been in existence for over 50 years. It all began when Jackie Estep Sr, while studying at Charleston High School, started working at a chain store called Markin’s in 1953. Markin’s was situated on Capitol Street, right across from Frankenberger. Mr. Estep Sr’s exceptional sales skills made him the most productive and youngest manager in the chain’s history.

Due to his outstanding performance, he was promoted to the position of manager, and Markin’s was relocated to Summer Street and rebranded as Calvin’s. Mr. Estep Sr continued to serve as the manager, and in 1962, he bought the store, which became a prominent fixture in downtown Charleston under the name Calvin’s Family Clothing Store in the 1960s.

In 1971, Mr. Estep Sr moved the store to 700 Lee and changed the name to Estep’s the Nu Look. His son, Jack Estep Jr, graduated from WVU in 1981 and joined his father at Esteps. Meanwhile, Tom Estep was pursuing his degree and living in California, working as a manager in steel fabrication. Later, Tom Estep also joined Estep’s after leaving California.

Eventually, Mr. Estep Sr decided to retire and sold the store to the current owners, Jack and Tom Estep.