A tradition of good things from Abe’s

[February 26, 2018] 

LINCOLN

Abe’s has had a remarkable history of serving up good things in central Illinois. Originally the business was a traditional carmelcorn and candy shop called Abe’s Carmelcorn, established in the mid 1950’s by Marie and Henry Donath. It was located on Pulaski Street until 1980, when Nancy Pineda purchased and moved the business to the Scully Building on North Kickapoo Street.

Abe’s Carmelcorn was purchased from Nancy Pineda by Helen & Larry Rainforth, and was established and renamed “Abe’s” in 1983. Later, son Lance Rainforth joined them as an owner and they moved Abe’s to its new location a few doors to the south at 117 North Kickapoo street, where Lance owns the building. Over the years Abe’s expanded to Normal where they operated from 1985 to 1996, and also opened in Peoria in 1992 where they continue to operate today.

In addition to the Abe’s stores, the Rainforths also operated additional businesses and ventures such as the Lincoln Park District Concession Operations, an ice cream parlor in Lincoln called Lickity-Split, and Abe’s Gourmet Foods in Lincoln.

Over three plus decades of business, Abe’s has made Carmelcorn for four sitting Presidents: President Ronald Reagan, President George Bush Sr, President Bill Clinton and President George Bush Jr..

Abe’s has evolved into a nationally recognized Specialty Gift Shop, which includes house wares, gourmet food, art and items rarely seen outside of major metropolitan shopping venues.

Abe’s has recently finished a complete remodeling of their shop in Lincoln, with new flooring and new displays, with a look that harkens back to their history and roots.

Abe’s has served customers in all the corners of the world, but their focus and their love is serving their local clients. To quote the great President Abraham Lincoln, “Be sure you put your feet in the right place, then stand firm.” For Abe’s, Lincoln Illinois is that place!

[LDN]