Address: 6-14 Davygate, York, YO1 8RJ
Description
The outline of the individual metal letters that once formed the name ‘Debenhams’ can be seen on a white stone wall.
This modern ghost sign, in bold block capitals, shows where the department store’s name once stood, now just a subtle shadow on the building’s façade.
History
This is an example of a modern ghost sign, as Debenhams on Davygate closed in 2020. Debenhams, which dates back some 242 years, has a long history in York.
More recently known for its store at Monks Cross and Davygate, the department store also had premises on Lendal and Coney Street.
1970s Source: York Press
The shop has remained closed since 2020, partly due to the pandemic.
Debenhams was founded in 1778 as a single store in London and expanded to 178 locations across the UK and Ireland.
In its final years, its headquarters were located in its flagship store on Oxford Street, London.
The range of goods sold included middle-to-high-end clothing, beauty products, household items, and furniture.
The company faced financial difficulties in the 21st century, entering administration twice, in April 2019 and April 2020.
In November 2020, Debenhams’ main concession operator, Arcadia, also entered administration, leading to the collapse of the whole company, including the premises on Davygate in York.
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