The chain began in 1854 when Scotsmen Samuel Carson and John Pirie first clerked in the Murray 's dry goods store in Peru , Illinois - then opened their own store in LaSalle followed by one in Amboy . In 1871 , the Great Chicago Fire destroyed 60 % of the store 's stock . In 1961 , Carson Pirie Scott & Co. greatly expanded in Illinois by purchasing the 20 unit Block & Kuhl chain headquartered in Peoria
Great Chicago Fire
Great Chicago Fire
Carson's