Officially known as the T. EATON COMPANY, this mercantile began business, in Toronto, in 1869. By the early 20th century, the chain had expanded throughout Canada and was the nation's dominant retailer. Following adoption of bilingualism (English and French) in 1969, the nameplate was altered to read simply EATON in Quebec. Mismanaged into oblivion in the 1970s and '80s, EATON'S filed for bankruptcy in 1997. In 1999, the failing enterprise was acquired by Sears Canada, who attempted a turnaround. This move was unsuccessful. The EATON'S-EATON chain was liquidated in early 2002.

Graphics from the T. Eaton Company, Limited