Our story, Opticians, at Bernard Shear Opticians goes back to the 1930's. Four generations of eye care professionals in Baltimore, Maryland. First was the master optician Samuel shear then Bernard shear then came Harvey shear. Our stories most recent update is our residing optometrist Dr. Melissa B. Shear.
Samuel Shear
Initially, Samuel Shear arrived in America as a first-generation immigrant from Lithuania. Subsequently, he applied his deep knowledge of optics and a strong drive to succeed. Meanwhile, he traveled along the Eastern Seaboard, peddling eyeglass lenses to towns and cities where vision care was scarce. Consequently, his devotion to craftmanship and personalized service began to stand out. Over time, his reputation grew. By 1921, Samuel Shear married Goldie, and together they raised their only child Bernard Shear. Later in 1938, Samuel had transformed his vision into reality by founding Monumental Optical in downtown Baltimore, Maryland. Thus, the Shears' legacy was born.
Bernard Shear
From an early age, Bernard Shear was deeply inspired by his father's entrepreneurial spirit and technical skill. Following in his father's footsteps, motivated by his legacy, he pursued the field of optics with equal passion and determination. Due to Bernard's unwavering commitment to quality and personalized care, he built a loyal customer base.
Continuing his journey, Bernard later opened his own optical store in Pimlico, Maryland. In turn, the expansion marked the beginning of a second-generation legacy. In 1957, the master optician founded Bernard Shear Opticians and with the dedicated support of his wife, Betty, the business flourished. Hence, the Shear family's impact on the optical industry was further solidified.
Harvey & Eileen Shear
After Bernard Shear's passing in 1968 at age 46, Harvey and Eileen Shear carried the family legacy forward. As a third-generation master optician, Harvey took over the business and moved it to Reisterstown Road in Owings Mills. Together, Harvey and Eileen expanded their vision beyond the local community. They traveled internationally, attending trade shows and meeting small eyewear vendors. Over the years, they traveled to international trade shows in Europe and meeting top eyewear vendors. Therefore, these global connections introduced unique and exceptional eyewear to their customers, further elevating the brand's reputation.
Dr. Melissa Shear, O.D.
Optometrist
Eventually, Dr. Melissa Shear, OD, proudly continued her family's legacy into its fourth generation. After graduating magna cum laude from The George Washington University in 1997, Dr. Melissa Shear, OD, joined Bernard Shear Opticians. Immediately, she brought a new level of clinical expertise to the practice. By 2002 she earned her Doctor of Optometry degree from SUNY State College of Optometry.
Furthermore, Dr. Shear completed her residency in ocular disease and refractive and ocular surgery the following year. Her residency was completed at OMNI Eye Specialists in Baltimore, Maryland in 2003. Dr. Shear officially joined the family business in 2006 as its first residing optometrist. Expanding Bernard Shear Opticians services to include comprehensive primary eye care and contact lens fittings. On January 2, 2020, Dr. Shear led the move to a sleek, modern facility on Reisterstown Road in Pikesville. Ultimately, this move reflected the practice's growth and reaffirmed the Shear family's commitment to innovation, excellence, and personalized care.
Andrea Brown-Levenson
Lab Manager
Additionally, Andrea Brown-Levenson has been an essential part of the Bernard Shear Opticians team since joining the practice in 2004. As Lab Manager, she brings specialized expertise in manufacturing eyeglasses and repairing eyewear. Therefore, Andrea ensures that every pair meets the highest standards of craftmanship and precision. Over the years, Andrea has played a key role in maintaining the quality and reliability that customers have come to expect. Ultimately, her dedication has helped us remain a trusted source for expertly crafted optical products.
Amanda Hellman
Dispensing Optician
First, Amanda Hellman was recruited for her outstanding customer service and genuine passion for helping others in 2011. Next, Amanda's natural ability to connect with clients creates a personalized, comfortable experience. Therefore, this made her an essential part of Bernard Shear Opticians quickly. Under the expert guidance of Master Optician Harvey Shear, Amanda trained extensively and developed her technical skills. Ultimately becoming a qualified dispensing optician. Since then, Amanda's reputation for precision and care complements Bernard Shear Opticians' legacy of high standards and warm professionalism.
Today, Bernard Shear Opticians proudly stands in its fourth generation still family-owned and operated. With deep roots in Baltimore, the business has earned a reputation on trust. Over time, we've continued to serve our community with the same care and expertise. Since then, we've grown from handcrafted beginnings to advanced optical solutions. Ultimately, our legacy is more than just vision. It's about honoring tradition-and looking ahead to the future.
