he Eagle House, the oldest dry goods and gents' furnishing house continuously in business in Redlands, was established by S. Lelean May 28, 1890. Mr. Lelean is a native of Cornwall, England, but came to this country when a young man, having learned in England the business which he has always followed. After a residence of about three years at Peoria, Ill., and Milwaukee, Wis., Mr. Lelean went to Port Hope, Canada, where he resided and was engaged in business for twenty-five years. He was married at Port Hope to Miss Lilah A. Smith.

After five years in the old Y.M.C.A. building the Eagle House removed in June, 1895, to the Cave & Reeves building on Orange street. This change gave the firm much greater store space than it had formerly, with a four-fold increase in the stocks first carried. This fact alone says all that need be said for the success of the business. In April, 1895, Mr. Lelean formed a partnership with his nephew, Mr. N. Leo Lelean, who had been for about seven years engaged in the same business at San Francisco.

In its new and commodious establishment, one of the best in the city, this firm carries a very complete assortment in its line. It has made a special effort for the last few years to retain the patronage which formerly went to Los Angeles. The result has been gratifying both to the firm and to its patrons. The former has realized an increase of sales; the latter have found that there is rarely need of their going or sending to a distance for dry goods. The Eagle House has found its business relations with the people of Redlands most satisfactory and cordial and has no regrets for having cast its lot with this community.

(Source: Illustrated Redlands, 1897, p. 84)