H. Jevne & Co.
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Grocery, wholesale, bakery, confectionery, olive oil and wine production |
| Founded | February 1882 |
| Founder | Hans Jevne |
| Headquarters | Los Angeles , United States |
Area served | Los Angeles area |
Key people | Hans Jevne (founder), J. A. Jevne (son, successor) |
H. Jevne & Company was a grocery enterprise headquartered in Los Angeles, recognized as a prominent player during the city's formative commercial years. The firm was established and managed by Hans Jevne (born February 28, 1849, in Hamar, Norway; died May 6, 1927, in Los Angeles).
History
In February 1882, Hans Jevne, a Norwegian immigrant who had previously partnered with his brother in Chicago, relocated to Los Angeles. Within a few months, he inaugurated a modest grocery outlet located in the Strelitz Block at the then-address 38–40 North Spring Street (renumbered to 136 N. Spring in 1890), positioned between First and the now-defunct Franklin/Court streets. Noted businessman Harris Newmark remarked in his memoirs that "in remarkably short order, local housewives gained access to the most exquisite delicacies from global markets. Since his arrival, Jevne has been integrally linked to key developments in the city's growth."
On June 21, 1896, the business relocated to the Wilcox Building situated at the southeast corner of 2nd and Spring streets. Between 1906 and 1907, construction was completed on the H. Jevne & Co. Building at the southwest corner of 6th and Broadway, which remains standing adjacent to the Los Angeles Theatre. The Los Angeles Times once described it as among the premier grocery establishments nationwide. Around 1920, Jevne's ceased retail operations to focus exclusively on wholesale activities, including producing bakery items and confectioneries.
The company also engaged in producing olives, olive oil, and various wines in La Crescenta, California—now a northeastern suburb of Glendale.
Hans Jevne retired circa 1926, passing leadership to his son J. A. Jevne.
Beyond his business pursuits, Hans Jevne was involved with several organizations such as the Merchants & Manufacturers Association, the California Club, Los Angeles Athletic Club, Los Angeles Country Club, California Yacht Club, Sunset Club, and played a role in founding the annual Fiesta de Los Angeles. Additionally, he served for several years on the board of directors for the First National Bank.
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Southward view of H. Jevne & Co.’s side façade ("Grocer Coffees and Teas") on N. Spring Street circa 1893–6; Hotel Nadeau is visible at First Street corner. -
H. Jevne & Co. Building (right) at the southwest intersection of 6th and Broadway around 1915; Bullock's department store appears at left rear. -
Portrait of Hans Jevne
