Louise Martin, Hope’s Oldest Active Merchant, Passes at 96

Hope’s oldest active merchant, 96 year old Louise Martin, passed away Sunday August 11th.  Martin came to Hope from Arizona in 1947 and had been involved in business for 51 years in Hope.  She founded Elm Street Antiques (now Elm Street Marketplace) in downtown Hope and had been active in the business up until about 5 weeks ago.

Mrs. Martin was a beloved figure in downtown Hope.  She was a member of the Hope Church of Christ and a memorial service is planned for there in September.  Services will be announced by Herndon-Fuqua.