Bessemer’s United Textiles storefront back in business one year after major fire

Exactly a year after a massive fire in downtown Bessemer caused smoke and water damage to United Textiles, the home decor outlet has officially reopened its doors to customers. 

Located at 1912 2nd Ave. North, United Textiles’ new building is just across the street from its previous location. The store has long been known as home to the South’s largest selection of area rugs and also specializes in: 

• Fine fabrics
• Furniture
• Decorative lamps 
• Mattresses

United Textiles’ “soft reopening” was Saturday, July 19, but owner Steve McDonough said they plan to have a grand opening sometime soon. 

“We didn’t really know what to expect (with the reopening). The first day was good, better than I expected…

While we were getting the new building ready, every day, cars were pulling up if they saw us to check on how we’re doing.”

Steve McDonough

The fire that changed everything

The fire began July 19, 2024, in a next door warehouse that shared a wall with United Textiles, the owners said in a Facebook update last year. Thanks to the Bessemer Fire Department, the folks at United Textiles didn’t completely lose their store. 

The building United Textiles occupied at 1917 2nd Ave. North was originally the first satellite Pizitz Department store. 

“They saved our building because it was definitely in the air for a little while, whether or not it was going to catch fire. This building that we’re in is different from most of the downtown buildings because it is built out of all steel and concrete with a sprinkler system, while a lot of the older buildings are wood with no fire mitigation.”

Owner Steve McDonough following the fire

They quickly began working to reopen in what would be a long repair process. 

In November, United Textiles announced its first “Fire Sale,” offering at least 50% off their old inventory that suffered some smoke damage. All the while, they were preparing a brand new store across the street from their historic downtown location. 

The owners announced back in February that the store would be open again in July—sure enough, United Textiles followed through.

“We can’t thank you all enough for the outpouring of support, encouragement, and patience you’ve shown us since the fire. Your words and actions have kept us going through every challenge we’ve faced. We’re beyond grateful and can’t wait to welcome you back to United Textiles soon.”

United Textiles on Facebook, Feb. 4, 2025

Support from the community

The Bessemer community has supported the family-owned outlet all the while by keeping up with their updates on social media and purchasing the lower-cost rugs. 

“You are such an icon in Bessemer, can’t believe this has happened! Lots of good luck on getting everything back in order and look forward to seeing you all soon!”

Linda Wren on Facebook in response to United Textile’s July 20, 2024 update

“We drive all the way from Andalusia to buy your rugs!! We are renovating our home so we need at least 4 new rugs. We will wait for your sale and also your grand opening in July. Shopping with you also gives us the opportunity to go to Bright Star, my favorite restaurant!!!”

Candy Kyle on Facebook in response to United Textile’s Feb. 4, 2025 update

Want to see the new United Textiles for yourself? Give them a visit to show your support after their year of hard work and determination. 

• United Textiles: Website | Facebook | 205-428-6208
• Address: 1912 2nd Ave. North, Bessemer
• Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Ready to get back to United Textiles for some new home decor? Tell us on social media by tagging us @bhamnow!