Our Story
Our Story
A Century of Tradition & Six Generations of Care
For over 100 years, Haase’s Shoe Store and Young Folks Shop has been a cornerstone of the Uptown New Orleans community, bringing families together and ensuring that children’s footwear and clothing needs are met with care, quality, and tradition.
Our story began in 1921 when Boris and Della Haase opened Haase’s Shoe Store on Oak Street, a vibrant shopping hub in New Orleans at the time. In 1922, the Haases purchased a house across the street, raised it, and opened their store on the lower level while raising their family above it. This blending of family and business became the foundation of what Haase’s represents today: a business rooted in love, community, and family legacy.
In 1931, Della Haase expanded the business by opening Haase’s Young Folks Shop next door to the shoe store, creating a one-stop destination for children’s shoes and clothing. Over the decades, Haase’s has remained family-owned and operated, with each generation upholding the same principles of exceptional customer service and high-quality products.
When Boris passed away in 1958, his only son, Buster, ran the store until 1968. Della’s daughter, Vera May Haase Caliva, then took over and played a pivotal role in running both stores for nearly five decades, alongside her daughter, Terry, her son, Bruce, and later his wife, Debbie. Vera May retired in 2013 at the remarkable age of 96 and passed away at 98 years young!
Bruce worked at Haase’s for over 45 years before passing the store to Kevin and Judy Caliva in 2010. Today, Haase’s continues to thrive, maintaining its reputation as a trusted destination for families throughout New Orleans. Parents and grandparents who grew up shopping at Haase’s now bring their own children, knowing they will receive the same personal touch and dependable service that have defined our business for six generations.
At Haase’s, we take pride in being more than just a store—we are a part of your family traditions. Whether it’s your child’s first pair of shoes, a special outfit for a memorable occasion, or simply the joy of shopping together, Haase’s is here to create moments that last a lifetime.
Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your family’s story for over a century. We look forward to serving you for generations to come.
