Filene’s Basement files for bankruptcy, to close in 2012

The historic Massachusetts discounter, which has about 21 stores and 1,555 employees, filed for bankruptcy today and will liquidate its inventory through the holiday season.

Filene’s Basement was founded more than a century ago. Shown here, its former flagship store in Downtown Crossing.

Globe File Photo

The first Filene’s Basement opened in 1909. Its flagship store in Downtown Crossing, shown here, closed in 2007.

Globe File Photo

The chain pioneered the concept of bargains when it devised a system of automatic markdowns.

Shoppers crowded the Filene's Basement store in Downtown Crossing in 1953.

Globe File Photo

Shoppers crowded the Filene's Basement store in Downtown Crossing in 1953.

Shoppers lined up outside the Filene’s Basement store in Downtown Crossing in this photo circa 1970.

Globe File Photo

Shoppers lined up outside the Filene’s Basement store in Downtown Crossing in this photo circa 1970.

Shoppers rummaged through bins of clothes in 1988.

Globe File Photo

Shoppers rummaged through bins of clothes in 1988.

In 2006, Filene's Basement opened a store on Boylston Street in Boston.

Globe File Photo

In 2006, Filene's Basement opened a store on Boylston Street in Boston.

The demise of Filene’s Basement also means the end of its popular “Running of the Brides” event

Globe File Photo

The demise of Filene’s Basement also means the end of its popular "Running of the Brides" event.

undreds of frenzied brides-to-be would hunt for discounted gowns at the bridal events.

Globe File Photo

Hundreds of frenzied brides-to-be would hunt for discounted gowns at the bridal events.

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