Sitting on the corner of University Avenue in Carbondale, Horstman’s Dry Cleaners has served the community since 1925. But the business faces the possibility of permanent closure. 

The business’s website states that Horstman’s has permanently closed its doors and thanks its patrons for “allowing us to serve you for nearly a century.” But there is still a possibility that the closure will only be temporary, according to employees. 

Arlene Reese and her daughter, Ivaree Reese, were working the drive-thru on March 21, the dry cleaners’ last day for pick-ups. On whether the business would permanently close, the two said they were “playing it by ear,” but “more than likely,” March 21 was the last day.

Arlene Reese said that the “boiler went out,” and was not sure how much the repairs would cost. She also said that the owner, Jon Kirk, is dealing with health issues.

“I broke my ankle in two places,” Kirk told the Daily Egyptian over the phone. 

Kirk said he did not want to discuss the state of the business yet and asked the Daily Egyptian to call back in two weeks. 

Arlene and Ivaree said the nearest dry cleaners were Monroe Cleaners in Marion and Immediate Cleaners in Benton, but they had heard Monroe Cleaners was experiencing boiler issues, as well. 

Monroe Cleaners is a dry-cleaning business that has served the Marion community since 1916. 

Fred Monroe of Monroe Cleaners said they were experiencing boiler issues but were still operational and taking orders. Monroe said they were getting more business from Horstman’s closure, which was increasing their staff’s workload. 

“We are at the same amount of people with more business,” Monroe said.

The Daily Egyptian will continue to update as the story progresses. 

Staff Reporter Brayden Guy can be reached at [email protected]

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