The announcement that a Quebec City landmark — Chaussures Blanchet — would soon be closing gave many families in the region a little pang.

The business broke the news to its faithful customers last summer, after 85 years in the historic Saint-Jean-Baptiste neighbourhood.

But last week, the Blanchet family discovered some history they weren’t aware of — a treasure trove of vintage shoes in mint condition, hidden behind a door they hadn’t known about.

The shoe store has existed on Richelieu street since 1936, selling flats, boots and high heels of all shapes and sizes, in addition to offering shoe repairs and orthopedic services.

With rising taxes, online shopping