We are a second generation family optical business. Doug’s Father, Robert G. Manhire, was an optician in the army during World War II. He outfitted an army truck with optical equipment and created the first mobile optical shop. His idea enabled the army to go out and serve the troops wherever he was needed.
Robert’s first store was on South street in Morristown, NJ. He also opened a second location in Somerville, NJ.
Douglas R. Manhire Opticians was started in February 1973. We were the first Optical Shop in Hackettstown and we were located on the left side of the building where Mama’s Pizza is now located.
In 1983 we purchased the 171 Mountain Ave. location and renovated the over 200 year old structure to accommodate our business.