Ghost Malls of America: Taunton's Retail Time Capsule

Taunton Shopping Center Transformed: A Time-Lapse Story of Retail Change Taunton, MA – A recent video showcasing the transformation of a Taunton shopping center using Google Earth imagery has captured the attention of local residents and online viewers. The time-lapse, spanning from 1995 to 2024, reveals the rise and fall of several major retailers, including a Super Kmart, Bob’s Stores, and Bed Bath & Beyond. The video’s creator, Maddox, highlights the changes in the retail landscape over nearly three decades. "It's fascinating to see how much has changed," said Maddox. "These stores were mainstays for so long, and their closures reflect broader trends in the retail industry." The video shows the Super Kmart, a prominent feature in 1995, eventually closing and being replaced by other businesses. Some of these replacements, such as Bob’s Stores and Bed Bath & Beyond, also eventually closed, leaving the shopping center in its current state. The time-lapse offers a visual representation of economic shifts and changing consumer habits in the region. The video's popularity reflects a broader interest in urban development and the history of local communities. It serves as a visual reminder of the ever-changing nature of retail and the impact of economic forces on local landscapes.