Indianapolis’ Local Family-Owned Florist

George Thomas Florist has been a beloved fixture in Indianapolis since 1928. Originally known as Knightstown Greenhouses, it was founded by C.M. Schatzlein and Jennie Schatzlein. In 1948, George and Helen Schatzlein joined the business. Around 1923, Robert Kiefer established Kiefer Floral Company, which Tom and Pat Smith acquired in 1962.

The business underwent several name changes until 1964 when the owners, Tom and Patricia (Pat) Smith, along with Helen and George Schatzlein, combined George and Tom’s names to create the now-famous George Thomas Florist. The florist initially moved to Irvington, setting up at 10th and Arlington. In the 90s, it relocated to George Thomas Plaza at 10th and Shadeland Ave. In 2010, the family decided to return to its Irvington roots.

Now run by Tom and Pat’s son, Sam, and his wife, Melissa, George Thomas Florist is in the heart of Irvington along the Washington Street corridor. The store occupies the former Vogel Appliance Store, and for history enthusiasts, it features beautiful solid oak wood cabinets from the old Rexall Drug Store that was once located at 10th and Arlington.