Visitors Nostalgia & Memories

(Archive #14: February 1, 2005 to February 28, 2005)


ralph pryor, mrs. hanby the gym teacher u ask about at whs married the dean of boys earl walker(speedo). she died about 1 month ago. sorry to report.
charlie walraven <hwalraven1@juno.com>
wilmington, de USA - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 22:52:40 (EST)
MICHAEL:: I had many, many meals at the Olympia Restaurant when I worked at Wilmington Dry Goods - my favorite was their veal cutlet. Not sure what happened with your entry being cut off.___This past weekend was very busy - we had 10,000 hits in the four days following the News Journal article and site traffic is still high - I think visitors are getting on and taking 1 or 2 hours just to view everything!!
Harry Rogerson <webmaster@oldwilmington.net>
Perryville, MD USA - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 22:22:44 (EST)
I don't know what happened. The rest of my message was cut off. Dominick and Tony were also barbers. My father had the New Star Restaurant at Front and King until 1967. Lots of characters down at that "rough" end of town. But we never had any trouble. Then there was Maxie's grocery store at second and King. The best pickles in the barrell!! I used to buy my 12 cent comis and 25 cent jumbo comic issues there. Oh to have kept those in a sealed bag!!! Sansone's Seafood was across the street. Remember the muskrats hanging in the window? Frank Holcomb was an elderly gentleman who lived a couple of doors up King from Maxie's (I seem to remember a shoe repair store). Bernie's deck now overlooks the "site" of Lujo's. My uncle owned Olympia Restaurant at 2nd and Market. There was the 5 o'clock Diner next to that where my father and all of his brothers seemed to get thier start in the restuant business when they first came to Wilmington.
Michael Klezaras <theklez@hotmail.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 21:27:43 (EST)
Rose: Was your father (or uncle Charlie Cella. I seem to remember that he was a barber, Also Dominick (can't remember his name) and Tony Monaco. My father owned the New Star Restawuant at Front and King until 1967. Charlie Cella was a very
Michael Klezaras <theklez@hotmail.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 21:18:11 (EST)
HEY BOB , IN REGARDS TO THE OLD WILSON LINE . THOSE CRUISES WERE GREAT . MY FRIENDS AND I ENJOYED THEM IN JR. HIGH AND THEN IN HIGH SCHOOL. BUT DURING THE LAST YEAR OF THE WILSON LINE I HAD THE HONOR OF LOCKING UP A TROUBLE MAKER ON BOARD ALONG WITH ANOTHER WILMINGTON POLICE OFFICER JIM WHITE. . THE PERSON WE ARRESTED WAS FOR DISORDERLY CONDUCT WAS PLACED IN A STORAGE ROOM THAT HAD A STEEL DOOR , HE TRYED TO BREAK OUT BUT WE THREW HIM BACK IN SAID STORAGE ROOM.. AFTER THE SHIP DOCKED BACK IN WILM. WE HAD SAID PRISONER TAKEN TO THE POLICE STATION AND BOOKED. THE NEXT DAY IN COURT THE JUDGE WONDERED IF OFFICER WHITE AND I SHOULD HAVE HAD HIM BOOKED IN PHIL. ,PA. . BUT A SHORT TIME LATTER AFTER OUR TESTIMONY.----WE HAD STATED THAT THE DEFENDENT HAD BROKEN THE LAW 10 MIN. AFTER LEAVING WILMINGTON. WAS FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED ! THERE ALWAYS HAS TO BE A TROUBLE MAKER IN THE CROWD, THANK GOD I DONT REMEMBER ANY OTHER ON THOSE MOON LIGHT CRUISES
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK@AOL.COM>
TARPON SPRINGS, FL USA - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 20:53:25 (EST)
I remember the carpet at the Sunoco station at 11th & West. I lived across West St & worked there at age 12 pumping gas & painting tires after the cars were washed. My pay was riding in Franie Steele's Jeep on road calls. Before Franie the station was owned by Hoot Lodge. The resturant across 11th st was the Rialto Lunchnette it was run by a guy named Andy & his nephew Stanley. I continued to have lunch there when I got out of school & worked at duPont. There was also a resturant next to the gas station called The Town Talk. I believe the owners name was Tony and he later opened the Sail Loft down state.
Mike Snyder <kmsins@msn.com>
Newtown, Ct USA - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 17:27:26 (EST)
I think you can base the decline of the downtowns all across the country with the onset of the suburban shopping centers, later malls. Once those suburban shopping centers opened, there was no more reason to go downtown to shop. Downtown was already well into decline at the time of the riots. Downtown was a great place to go, to eat, shop, go to movies, etc., but around any holiday time, it was so crowded you couldn't get your breath due to the crush of the crowds. And parking then was a nightmare. Thus, the idea to open branch stores outside of the city. I believe the Merchandise Mart (on Gov. Printz) opened in the early 50's (54 seems to ring a bell). Then, I believe it was Fairfax, then Price's Corner, etc. It seemed like a good idea at the time to have suburban stores, but I don't think anyone thought those suburban stores were ringing a death-knell to the downtown area. I don't have any historical data on the cause of the decline, just my memories; I'm sure someone will add good information to your request. But, although all of the infrastructure were still in place for downtown to thrive (stores, transportation, policing, etc.), the need to go downtown was lost when these suburban stores opened. Such is progress: for want of ease and speed, we lost a wonderful downtown, community, and neighborliness. That's why sites like this thrive, because we want to remember, and wish we could go back to those happier, friendlier times, but this is the only way we can do so now.
Bruce <spyderxlatcomcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 14:20:39 (EST)
I love history and nostalgia and am a frequent reader of this site. I am in my late 30's, so I don't have the memories of Wilmington that most of you do. Also, I grew up in the suburbs of North Wilmington. My memories are of the early to mid 70's when there was still a lot of open space on Concord Pike and Naamans Rd was two lanes. I work in the city, so I see the revitaliztion efforts taking place, but when did the city decline and what caused it? Reading the News Journal last week, it's evident that there are only a few safe neighborhoods left. My father says the riots in the late 60's started the decline. Is that true? Also, does anyone think the latest efforts can really bring the city back? I don't think Market Street will ever really come back because the type of mom and pop stores that populated the street can't survive in an era of strip malls and franchises. It's too bad that our world is becoming so homogeneous. My generation were the early 'mall rats' and the mall definitely was as close as us suburban kids could come to Market Street. But it's too bad that so many local businesses are slipping away. I don't get the same feeling buying hardware at Lowe's that I do when I go into Buckworth's hardware store in Middletown, with it's hardwood floors and Mr. Buckworth behind the counter. Costco steaks don't taste as good as Haldas Brothers. My point, if you're still reading this rambling post, is this: I don't remember the heyday like the rest of you, but I still 'miss' it. From a distance of many years, it seems that there was more of a community then. Is that true?
Stephen Reno <phishphan100@yahoo.com>
Middletown, DE USA - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 13:58:16 (EST)
Deb Duffy. I believe Dean's Pharmacy was on Lancaster Avenue. I used to go in there once in while when I was bagging school or. The old Three Little Bakers bakery was down the road a block. I can remember the beautifully decorated cakes in the window.
Bruce Esdale <bruce.esdale@basell.com>
Newark, DE USA - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 12:47:44 (EST)
I remember so much, now that I have looked at your site. I remember Dean's Pharmacy on 4 th Street just up the street from Wilmington High. It was like the old movies you see in the 40's that had a soda shop in the store. Deans had a oblong bar as I recall where we would sit for hours drinking soda's and ducking school. Fond memories have come to me regarding Park Theater. I grew up in Bancroft Parkway in the 60's and 70's a magical time as I think of it now. Oh to have a movie thearter within walking distance from your house and be fortunate enough to have parents who would give me the price of admission and some left over for a soda and candy. I also remember the candy store cattycorner from St. Thomas on Bayard Ave. I can't think of the name now, however it saved me from 8 years of hell at a catholic school. lol I moved to Indianna Kokomo just over a year ago. I met a girl friend on line and moved her to be close to her. She recieved a Bi Lateral Transplant at Methodist Hospital, Oct, 2003. I came to be support for her and her husband. Besides the cost of living here is much cheaper and can accomadate my SSD check I am on Disability for an inoperable brain tumor. Am single and must rely on myself. I was able to buy a house here and am very happy. However I do long for some of Delaware. I am so glad to have come accross your site. Thanks for maintaining it. Deb
Deb Duffy <KenzieKennaAndMe@aol.com>
Kokomo, In USA - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 12:31:30 (EST)
Wayne Butler. Last I looked, there's only one Bruce Esdale and he's the one who worked with you at Freon Lab at Chestnut Run for a number of years. I graduated from WHS, class of '66. I'm still married to that English girl, Anne, but no longer live in Meadowood. Reside in Gender Woods by Christiana High School. Learning of this website by way of the News Journal's Crossroads section, it's proof positive for many people that the old saw, "...you can the boy out of Wilmington but not Wilmington out of the boy..." is correct. How do you possibly forget the many happy memories of your childhood? That is why I take time to visit the area, to re-kindle old memories and look up old friends. Growing up in the 'Flats' area, I was remarking to one "Old Wilmington" e-mail communicant that the "Godfather" movie should have been based on Mooney's basement at 6th and Rodman. That area was predominantly Italian with a sprinkle of other nationalities but, nonetheless, a great area. To see some of these people especially on a Sunday afternoon was memorable. However, as the website implies, it is based on Wilmington of all areas, all nationalities and all races. That's what made Wilmington great.
Bruce Esdale <bruce.esdale@basell.com>
Newark, DE USA - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 12:04:27 (EST)
The Wilson Line operated, to my knowledge, through the 1940’s. It was a fun trip. The main itinerary was between Wilmington and Philadelphia, with a stop in Chester on some trips. There was a sign adjacent to the Chester wharf that proclaimed “What Chester Makes, Makes Chester”. There were other trips between Wilmington and Riverview Park and I believe between Philadelphia and Riverview. In the late 1930s and into the 1940s the smell of the water around the Marcus Hook area was sickening. In the 1930s many schools and other organizations had trips on the Wilson Line as a regular Spring outing. My Father-in-law, Paul Wilkinson, had a dance band and was one of several that played during “Moon Light Cruises”. These cruises sometimes got a little rowdy, as beer was sold onboard and some people over imbibed. On one occasion, the boat collided with something in the river and everyone rushed to one side to see what was going on. The boat was listing badly, so my Father-in-law started playing a peppy tune to get the people onto the dance floor. When they did, the boat righted itself. His actions were reported in the Wilmington papers.
Bob Veazey <bobbyvz@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 12:02:58 (EST)
I remember the carpet test at the gas station, though I forget what brand of gas it was, as I also forget the name of the restaurant that was nearby, though someone will bring it up; it was just mentioned a few months ago. The little store at Delaware Ave. & Washington was the Cozy Corner. It lives on at another location, but my mind won't let me recall where at the moment. :)
Bruce <spyderxlatcomcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 11:50:09 (EST)
I vaugely remember the Turkish bath house at 3rd and Shipley. It stuck out because if I remember correctly it was maybe a tile? building? When you mentioned the Esso gas station, it brought back memories of the Sunoco station at 11th and West right next to Keils Chrysler, DeSota, Plymouth dealership. The Sunoco station did some kind of wear test with the DuPont Co. once around the mid 50s. They carpeted the station
Wayne Butler <twntydasys@aol.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 11:13:39 (EST)
Patti, I remember coming out to Truitt's Riding Academy as a city slicker. About 5 of us rode down Limestone Road and made a right turn, as I recall, back to a long lane. My horse was last.....until we made the turn! I passed everyone in front, at full gallop, and fell off the damn horse when I got to the front. Hurts like hell, even as a teenager. I imagine the new riding facilities that County Government has sponsored are a little more tame.
jim rambo <jrambo@state.de.us>
wilm, de USA - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 10:42:59 (EST)
My mother owned Lucille's Dress Shop @ 712 Market Street. I remember taking the bus downtown. You could actually shop, eat and go to the movies. Hard to beleive.
Ron Cohen <kenal4@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 10:28:28 (EST)
Doris, "Lujo's" bar was at 2nd & King Sts., next to "Bernie's" Bar. "Bernie's" is the only building left in that block, all the rest being torn down for urban renewal.
Bruce <spyderxlatcomcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 10:05:38 (EST)
does anyone remember sullivans store at 3rd and adams, had 4 or 4 sons in the navy in wwII
LIZ <elizabemari3@aol.com>
hartly, de USA - Sunday, February 27, 2005 at 23:56:24 (EST)
My uncle, Joe Conley had a tatoo parlour on 4th Street between 4th & 5th. It was around the early 1940's. He tatood alot of the service men from WWII and other people too. Does anyone remember him? Does anyone remember a bar called "Lou Joes" off of east Market St? Also, does anyone remember the building that had the hot steam baths on east 3rd St? Did anyone work at Belanca Air Craft Factory during WWII in New Castle? I worked on the airplane flaps. Does anyone remember Langfords Grocery Store on VanBuren St. near Lancaster Ave? How about the Ace Theater on Maryland Ave? Did anyone go on Sat. to the matinee?
Doris Archibald Moore <universal_adventurer@juno.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Sunday, February 27, 2005 at 23:17:05 (EST)
what about ACKIE'S on 8th street....ernie ackenstein's old place?? muggs
Kevin "Muggs " McGinnis <themuggz@aol.com>
wilmington, de USA - Sunday, February 27, 2005 at 20:18:07 (EST)
Carol, what year did you go to #13 and did you go to warner?
Jean <usa>
wilmington, De. USA - Sunday, February 27, 2005 at 17:05:19 (EST)
Small world department: A few years ago, I had an appointment with our family physician out here in sunny California. We had been going to him for a couple of years, and during this visit, the subject of "where are you from?" came up. He said he grew up in someplace I probably never even heard of: Wlimington, Delaware. After my eyes shrank back from saucer-size to normal, I asked where in Wilmington he lived. He said, "Graylyn Crest" ... I asked him if that wasn't near the intersection of Foulk and Silverside Roads-- then HIS eyes looked like saucers. He asked where I was from, and I said "Edgemoor Terrace, but you probably never heard of it..." with a big grin on my face. Turns out he graduated from Brandywine H. S. (I think in about 1971), and his name is Samuel A. Carlis. Anybody here know him?
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Sunday, February 27, 2005 at 15:18:17 (EST)
My parents owned and operated a shoe leather shop on Second & King Streets. It was called Cella Leather Company. Does anyone remember this shop?
Rose <mdonrose@aol.com>
Newark, DE USA - Sunday, February 27, 2005 at 15:02:32 (EST)
YES! I remember the BLUE ROCK TAVERN at 22nd and Lamotte. Does anyone remember the name of the mom and pop grocer across the street from them? I recall reading about a tragedy that occurred there, and remember shopping there as a child on occasion, but don't know the name.
Connie <nospamwantedatyahoo.com>
Wilmington, de USA - Sunday, February 27, 2005 at 10:34:03 (EST)
the hot dog store at 4th & market was sloppy john's as we called it.[john's]?
zeke <fazfaz36@hotmail.com>
wilm., de USA - Sunday, February 27, 2005 at 09:47:03 (EST)
Suggestions: 1--Chabie's Market, Woodlawn Ave (between 17th & 18th Sts )...2--A&P, Delaware Ave & Adams(?)...3--ESSO gas station, Delaware Ave...4)--Veterinarian, Harvey Fell, 10th St...5--Huckster, Mr. Jones...6--Huckster, Mr. Woodward...7--Rag Man and his horse drawn wagon...8--Ray Charles at one of Sunday night dances at The Armory...9--John's Bargain store, Market St...10--Playing hop-scotch on the sidewalks...11--Skating throughout the neighborhoods...12--Warner Jr High...13--#13 School, Union St...14--The Smoke Shop, Del Ave & duPont St...15--Train station, Del Ave & duPont St...16--Keil's appliance store, 11th St....17--John Wanamaker's dept store, Augustine Cut-Off...18--Tower Hill Tennis Courts & Practice "Back Board", 17th & Rising Sun Lane...19--Food Fair grocery store, Pennsylvania Ave & Union St...20--Diamond Ice & Coal, Pennsylvania Ave & Union St...
Carol <VWDRV1@AOL.COM>
Wilm, De USA - Sunday, February 27, 2005 at 07:55:39 (EST)
How about Avenue Pharmacy on Maryland Avenue.
cac <cac1952@aol.com>
Wilm, De USA - Sunday, February 27, 2005 at 00:22:07 (EST)
Here are some more stores to add to the list: Teen Town (before it became Town and Campus),The Diane Shop (Marsh Road),Kinney's Shoes, The Purple Door (Delaware Ave.), Jo Robinson, The Linen Mart (Market St.),Kiddie World (Concord Pike), Franklin Simon (Merchandise Mart), Sun Ray Drugs (Merchandise Mart), Strawbridge & Clothier Budget Store (opposite end of Merchandise Mart from the regular store), Rawlins & Kincaid Appliances and Televisions (40th and Market), Van Sciver's Furniture (Gov. Printz Blvd.), Wax Furniture (Concord Pike), Paulin's Toys (Merchandise Mart),Hearn's Pharmacy (Fairfax Shopping Center), Food Fair (Graylyn Shopping Center). I also remember the outdoor trampoline center behind the Howard Johnson's in Fairfax where you rented time to jump on the trampolines.
Lynn Decker brentlinger <lfbrentl@hotmail.com>
Elkton, MD USA - Saturday, February 26, 2005 at 22:47:17 (EST)
I grewnup in Elsmere I would go to Silver's Drugstore for cherry coke and Walt's for ice cream and penny candy. We would go to Wilmington to go shopping at Wilmington Dry Goods, Arthur's and Bransteins those were the days. I remember the block parties we had in Elsmere we had the best time their never seemed to be any problems just fun. I love seeing the old pictures, I'm glad I heard about your web site.
Joan <jewolf@snip.net>
Bear, De USA - Saturday, February 26, 2005 at 20:57:13 (EST)
Thanks guys, that simple addition will give future historians a better point of reference and make our communications benificial in an historic way when they're looking at them 50 years from now, Wayne
Wayne Butler <twntydasys@aol.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Saturday, February 26, 2005 at 19:24:56 (EST)
My husband's Uncle, John Desmond owned Delamore Dairy, and John Desmond came over from Creege, County Cork, Ireland, along with his two other brothers Andrew and Connie, [my husband's grandfather]in the turn of the century, I think 1906. They started a new life here doing what they knew best dairy farming. Connie Desmond took his own path and I think he worked for the railroad, not real sure on that, I'll post later when I find out what grandfather Connie Desmond did for a living. After school I would walk over to Delamore Dairy to get Ice Cream with my friends from new Wilmington High on Lancaster Ave. in the mid 1960's In the future little did I know, I would meet my hubby in 1983 and marry him in 1985. I have done some research on the Desmond side to find their family in Ireland, and my husband's cousin Kieran Desmond from Malihide County Dublin Irealnd found us through my family website, he was looking for his great Uncle's here in the states and my brother's family tree website came up and Kieran e-mailed him to see if we were related through marraige, and he sent pictures of the dairy farm and pictures of his great Uncles John, Andrew and Connie Desmond, BINGO! Kieran found us through the Kelley family website. Oh, the home and farm in Creege, County Cork, Ireland still exist, and my husband's mother Mary Desmond's first cousin Connie Lucy, who's mother was a Desmond still lives in that home where they all were born and raised. See from a small town in Ireland to a small town in Wilmington they have connected, wow! We sure live in a small world, it so wondeful, We tok a trip to Ireland last May to meet Kieran Desmomd and his family and our next trip will be to meet his cousin Connie Lucey and see his grandfather's, great Uncle John and Andrew's home.
maureen kelley dunning <dunningmod@aol.com>
new castle , de USA - Saturday, February 26, 2005 at 18:59:49 (EST)
Remember sledding parties on Faulkland road,swimming in Red clay crick,summers at Red Point Beach,Md when the water in the chesapeake bay was clean enough to drink?
rich Lloyd <lostnote@juno.com>
san diego, ca USA - Saturday, February 26, 2005 at 16:55:51 (EST)
Great site Does any one remember sledding parties on Faulkland road and Mrs Lloyd would serve hot chocolate to every one?How about long lines waiting to get on the ferry to go to Riverview park.The cars would stretch from the ferry back to Wm.Penn H.S.
rich lloyd <lostnote@juno.com>
san diego, ca USA - Saturday, February 26, 2005 at 16:44:02 (EST)
Me and my girlfriends would go to the Bowlerama every Sunday late afternoon just for the fries!!!
Diane "Adams" Walker <LWalker01@aol.com>
Abingdon, MD USA - Saturday, February 26, 2005 at 16:16:34 (EST)
I love you web site brought back many memories from my childhood. I can also remember the city kids coming out to ride horses at Truitt's Riding Academy which was my grandfathers.
Patti <wldwom2119@aol.com
wilmington, DE USA - Saturday, February 26, 2005 at 15:22:55 (EST)
Hawley Street. I seem to remember that Hawley Street remained cobblestoned well into the 60's or maybe even 70's.
Carol Merlini <caroljane.merlini@aliceposta.it>
Pescara, Abruzzo Italy - Saturday, February 26, 2005 at 14:43:20 (EST)
i remember going to the printz roller rink taking 2 trolleys from browntown to holly oak on sundays. it was a lot of fun back in the early fifties.
exdupont <exdupont@aol.com>
newark, de. USA - Saturday, February 26, 2005 at 11:30:53 (EST)
CAROL GIBSON - I didn't notice that picture in the News Journal of your dad. I'll have to look for it. I remember going over your house when you lived on Madison Street. You lived down from my Aunt Pearl Smith. We had to be real quiet on the days your dad worked the 11-7am shift. Your parents were really nice, Ann and Bill, right? You know my brother, Ted Thomas, goes to the Prices Run Reunions. He really enjoys them. We should all go sometime with our siblings. We would be there forever talking about old times. Good reading your post. Diane Thomas Warwick
Diane Thomas Warwick <dianew19809@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Saturday, February 26, 2005 at 10:22:59 (EST)
I realy enjoyed the article in the News Jornal the other day. So when I logged on and saw my sister Carol had written in it prompted me to write. This site is wonderful. Reminding me of times, people and places that I had all but forgotten. Our family lived on Carter Street, between 23rd and 24th streets, when I was born. We moved to Madison Street, between 32nd and 34th streets, when I was in kindergarden. I remember the candy store on Jessop and the M & M Bakery (especially the warm fresh rolls). I also have pictures of myself and brother Steve on the same pony that was pictured in the paper. I remember more of living on Madison Street. The Harlan School Fair (I think it was called the Harlan Frolic) every year with water balloon fights the night before. Sledding behind the school at PS DuPont, Monkey Hill and Rockford Park. The Flower Market at Rockford Park. Meeting your friends at 30th Street Park, there was no pool but I think they had a sprinkler at one time. I also remember a Soda Shop on Miller Road where we would go and play pinball, but can't remeber the name. Thanks again for this site and bringing back the wonderful memories.
Jayne (Gibson) Robinson <jayneliz1@yahoo.com>
Newark, DE USA - Saturday, February 26, 2005 at 10:05:28 (EST)
congatulations
John <johnpetr152@hotmail.com>
Paris, Paris France - Saturday, February 26, 2005 at 10:02:46 (EST)
Here are a couple more to add to your list of Taverns and Bars. In the 50's the Blue Rock Tavern at 22nd & Lamotte Sts. and Murphy's (Men Only) at 5th & Orange Sts were owned by my aunts & uncles. They also owned Diamond Printing at Front & Tatnall and Charles Printing at 508 Orange Sts.
Sandy <bsconne@msn.com>
Bear, DE USA - Saturday, February 26, 2005 at 09:26:20 (EST)
I lived most of my life in Delaware and as a kid I especially remember the summers I spent at Camp Mattahoon. I attended the Camp every summer from age 9 to age 15. I even worked there during high school summer vacation. Talk about inflation. The cost for two weeks for everything including three pretty good meals a day was $20! I loved it and boy did my parents love it too!. I made friends with the late Jim Hagen who would later teach me history at Salesianum. Jim was a great basketball coach for the Gold and White and did the same at Conrad.
Bill Mackey <whmackey@erols.com>
Chadds Ford, PA USA - Saturday, February 26, 2005 at 09:17:49 (EST)
I just saw a posting by Bill Sammons, (sorry to pick on you Bill) which brought to mind something which I feel could improve things, (not that much could be improved). In his note he mentioned he went to Brown, I too went there (class of 59). and that is my point. If people could reference something that would tell their age, only so that those of us who are trying to figure out "Do I know them?" would have another clue. Or in other casses as to a point in time as to some happenings. For instance I thought I went to school with Jim Rambo, and sure enough after some prodding I indeed found out that I did. The same way with a newcomer Bruce Esdale. I knew a Bruce Esdale who married a girl from England and moved to Meadowood, could this be the same one or someone of a completely different age group. I have noticed that the ages utilizing Harry's board have changed dramatically since its inception. I personally think that's great, because an accurate history can be passed along. I've seen people on here lately who seem to be in their late 30's early 40's. I could guess at Bill's age and say that he graduated from Brown around 1950, what with his reference to the Korean war. The main reason I ask this is, not to spy on your personal life but, because I was like a jackrabbit, hopping from one part of the city to another and even out to Elsmere for a year or so around 1950, I know people from many neighborhoods, and even without that, when I went to work I only worked at 4 or 5 places in my lifetime but met people of all ages from all over the city. To have an age reference along with other things, like where you grew up, went to school etc. would really nail things down. For those who didn't get that I graduated in 59 I'm 63 years old and will be 64 this October. Thanks for letting me go on like this, but I really belive this site is much more important than a lot of people look at it as, Wayne
Wayne Butler <twentydasys@aol.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Saturday, February 26, 2005 at 06:15:19 (EST)
I have an addition for your list of doctors: George Hilty. He was my pediatrician from the early 1960's through the 70's. His office was at Augustine Cut-off. I remember he had paintings of clowns in each of his exam rooms, and I believe he painted them himself. Also, I remember the "Charlie Chip Man" delivering potato chips and pretzels in big metal tins to my grandparents' house in Newport. Wonderful web site - can't wait to get my mother to check it out!
Dina Appleby <dhappleby@comcast.net>
Kennett Square, PA USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 23:34:43 (EST)
I lived in the 1100 block of west 2nd Street between VanBuren & Harrison in the late 1930's and early 1940's. I went to Mary C.I. Williams School (Mrs. Shultz was principal) and Bayard Jr. High School on Clayton Street. Does anyone remember the hotdog stand near the corner of 4th & Market St? What was the name of it? It had the best homemade chile for the hotdogs.
Doris Archibald Moore <universal_adventurer@juno.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 23:03:33 (EST)
Carol, I like Ralph, had the pleasure of working for and with your Father. I also lived across the Street from you Mother in the Gardens and got to know her and your Brother Steve. Both your Parents were good folks.
Ray Jubb <Golfopera@aol.com>
Wil. , dE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 22:56:41 (EST)
Harry, I was wondering since you grew up on Springer Street in the Flats, did you know Jack Daniels, who later became a State Trooper. He also grew up on Springer, as a matter of fact his Mother lived there up clean up till the late 80's I believe. I graduated Wilmington High with jack and later worked with him at the DuPont Experimental Station.
Ray Jubb <golfopera@aol.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 22:42:28 (EST)
Liz- I sure remember Penny Hill Donuts... with all the hoopla today about "Krispy Kreme" and how good they are, I still think Penny Hill donuts were far better. Maybe they were way ahead of their time...?
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 22:17:02 (EST)
How many people remember Dukes' Pub in Christiana Mall when it opened, later was part of the movies expansion and space is vacant now, I believe.
Bill Murray <shamrock-plumbing@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 21:56:41 (EST)
who remembers Penny Hill Donut shop, really good donuts
LIZ (ROGERS)MARINO <elizabemari3@aol.com>
hartly, de USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 21:36:00 (EST)
I grew up in the 1950s & 60s on 9th. & Jackson St. came from an Irish Catholic family of ten kids, walked downtown to Market St. to Woolworths's. We shared a couple of banana splits, with our small allowance. There were balloons hanging over the counter and you picked one and paid whatever the price that was on a small piece of paper inside the ballon, any where from 5 cents to 39 cents, sipped on cherry cokes, rootbeer floats, prize potato chips, bought a comic book, 45 records, fabric downstairs to make a dress for the dance at St. Helena's in Belfonte, Sallies dances on Saturday nights and when you found a job, you shopped at the better stores for dresses and shoes, Little Heel, Arthur's, Kennards, etc. I worked at East Lynn's Dress shop during high school years, spent all of my pay check on cloths, it was a great time filled with wonderful memories. I loved Wilmington, still visit on Saint Pat's day, see the parade and hang out at St. Pat's church and run into old friends, and do the pub crawl.
Maureen <dunningmod@aol.com>
New Castle, de USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 21:20:52 (EST)
Saw the article in the paper about your website. Great idea. Do you remember the Willow Restaurant on Rt. 13? I have a copy of the menu. It was the first restaurant with "Chicken in the Basket" and curb service. Also, do you remember the "Liberty Shoe Repair" or the "The Pineroom" at 7th and King?
Debby Keen <d2hon@aol.com>
Newark, De USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 21:02:58 (EST)
Harry - WAY TO GO! re: the 2/24 newspaper article. It certainly seems to justify the time we all spend in reading, writing and reminiscing here. My time living in the City of Wilmington was very brief (1949 to 1951), but the Wilson family hung out in the suburbs until 1966. Had it not been for this site, I would have never known that I lived in the heart of the 9th Ward at 23rd and Madison. And I would never have reconnected with policeman-trombonist Ralph Pryor after more than 50 years. It might even be said that you (with some help from Connie Cooper of the Delaware Historical Society) helped inspire me to finally finish writing a memoir about my time in the 9th Ward back then, that I had originally written in 1975. The HSD finally published it in their November 2004 issue. If you are interested in looking it up, it would be fun to see it electronically reproduced (with HSD's blessing, of course) here at OldWilmington.Net. I can't remember who it was, about 4 years ago, that led me to this site, but since then, I look in on it at least twice a day. Marvellissimo!!!!!!!!!!!!
Robert J. (Bob) Wilson (Jr.) <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Stamford, CT USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 21:01:58 (EST)
I was raised on 4ht and adams until I95 took our block, one of my fondest memories was PATSY'S SUB SHOP, there will never be any subs like them in the whole east coast. My memory of Johnny's Market on Fifth ave, where my dad Al Rogers was a butcher, also lingers in my mind. MANY, MANY, GOOD MEMORIES
liz (rogers)marino <elizabemari3@aol.com>
hartly, del USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 21:00:39 (EST)
SEAN: Ask Fr. Jennings if he knew/remembers Fr. Paul Fallers at Christ Our King? Paul's family and mine were neighbors when I was a little kid and he was a teen. Paul taught me how to play hopscotch; we remained friends until his untimely death.
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 20:43:51 (EST)
Lookingt for information on business located in Wilmington early 1900's named "Beste's Best Buy" Sold meat products and was known for its scrapple recipe
Dave Beste <Terasine@aol.com>
Middletown, De USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 20:08:54 (EST)
Kozy Korner at Delaware Avenue & Washington Street had the very best chocolate 400's. In later years, only the older waitresses knew what they were when you ordered one! Remember the block party/dances in front of Price's Run swimming pool? Long time ago!
Shirley Hudson Jester <Ujest110@aol.com>
Newark, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 16:16:40 (EST)
BILL SAMMONS: Was there a Margaret in your family?
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol. com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 15:19:33 (EST)
Who could forget the ice cream at Delamore Dairy, on Lancaster and Scott Streets? A single cones was only $.15 and a double dip was $.30! Boobie's Corner Store was another wonderful place! His lifesavers candies were displayed so high up that I couldn't see all the flavors. Boobie would come around the counter, with cigar in mouth, and hoist me up to make my selection. Does anyone remember the two guys from Philadelphia who started a soft pretzel business, in a building on North Scott Street, between 7th and 8th? At that time, kids were allowed one hour for lunch and we could go home. The children in St. Anthony's Grade School kept them in business! They were hot out of the oven and came in regular size and jumbo! My other favorite memory was going to Ears' corner store on Scott St. with my dad, in the morning, on the way to school. He would go in and get the newspaper and always come out with a pack of Blackjack gum for us. They just tore the building down last month. I could go on and on....
Jodi <Jmadisonblu@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 15:18:43 (EST)
I grew up on 4th & Clayton Street in Wilmington. I remember, as a little girl, trolleys on tracks that would rattle our house. We thought at times the windows would explode. It never bothered us, we would sleep right through. Then they went to buses that were hooked up to an electric line above. On one side of Clayton Street was a corner bar named "George". Directly across was an ice cream store owned by "Haggerty". They had the best ice cream. They also had penny candy. We kids thought we were in heaven.
Floria Smith <flomed@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 15:17:12 (EST)
I remember how employee oriented the DuPont Company use to be. There were all kinds of company sports. I attended DuPont League basketball games twice a week with my dad, Mope Davis, in the winter, and attended softball and baseball games in the summer. At one time or another, my brothers and I were employed to run the time clock if the timekeeper failed to show up.
Leslie <3geese@dol.net>
Elkton, MD USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 14:57:00 (EST)
Don't forget the Hob Tea Room in the lower level of Delaware Trust Bldg. It was a special occation resturant and a real treat to go out to diner in 1940's. And Rosenbaum's Toy Store near 9th and Market St. Also Danforth's Drug Store on Delaware Ave and Brittingham's Pharmacy.
Nancy E. Schanes <neschanes@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 13:56:08 (EST)
I remember a wonderful traditionl sporting goods store in downtown--I believe it was on 8th St. Do you have any information on Herman's Sporting Goods(not the chain)?
Glenn Tuttle <gatut72@hotmail.com>
Newark, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 13:06:31 (EST)
Does anyone remember Dominick the ice man? back in the 30s @ 40S if you had no refrigitor you had an "ice box". Dominick was the man who serviced the Wilmlngton area.
William R. Sammons <rupe012sl9m@aol.com>
Millsboro, De USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 12:53:34 (EST)
I don't know if this was mentioned but back in the 30s and 40s those of us who didn't have refrigerators had ice boxes instead. The man who brought us ice was Dominic the ice man.
William R. Sammons <rupe012sl9m@aol.com>
Millsboro, De USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 12:28:10 (EST)
I was born ay 620 W. 2nd street, went to Mary C.I. Williams School for 5 yrs then went to Lore school 1 year when we moved to 1818 West 3rd street. Went to H.F. Brown Vocational H.S. Maried, moved to Newport after a hitch in the navy. Served in the National Guards while in high school and did a "short tour" in Korea. I am retired and now living in Millsboro, De.
William R. Sammons <rupe012sl9m@aol.com>
Millsboro, , DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 12:14:31 (EST)
Does anyone know anything about "Mechanics Row." It's an identical group of 19th century twin houses in the 1700 block of N. Rodney. It starts at the corner of N Rodney and Shallcross and extends to the next corner at N Rodney and Lovering. All the houses are identical and this row is refered to as mechanics row. Does anyone know the story behind this?
Sean <sekirk1518@msn.com>
WILMINGTON, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 12:07:47 (EST)
We lived on the west side of town and my mother did not drive; I remember getting all dress up in our Sunday best with white gloves and all to take a bus ride to go downtown. In later years as a teenager on Saturdays, meeting my friends from high school, having lunch at Woolworth's, shopping at my favorites, Arthur's, Braunstein's, Kennard's and the Little Heel Shop for Pappagallo shoes!!! Miss those stores.
Nita Gryan <Jabree41@comcast.net>
Hockessin, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 11:48:31 (EST)
Mike, in reference to the vanilla 4 hundred,it is so good to hear that someone else remembers them.It took 4 things to make a vanilla 4 hundred. Milk,vanilla,ice and sugar.That makes it a vanilla 4 hundred.I love them just made one last week for myself.
K Burton <breckslnkid10@yahoo.com>
Pike Creek, De USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 11:44:02 (EST)
P.S. dupont...class of '56
Phyllis Weiner Aerenson <phyle531@aol.com>
wilmington, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 11:25:10 (EST)
I love your website! I don't know if anyone knows that Charles Lindburg once landed at the duPont Airport? We have pictures of him and the Spirit of St. Louis with my the mayor, fire department, my father-in-law, etc. Also, about the lady Zelda that you list as the lady who used to chase people with her umbrella. I guess that this is not very nice, but she was referred to as "Quack Quack". I remember her very well, and I'm sure that a lot of your readers do too. I born in Wilmington in 1942 and was basically raised at 4th & Franklin Streets then Faulkland Heights. My husband was born in 1931 in Cranston Heights. I have great memories of growing up in Wilmington i.e. Pop's subshop in the Forty Acres, Banjo's sub shop on Fourth Street, going to the Grady & Hurst show to dance, etc. Keep up the good work, it is really wonderful!!! Judith K. Brumbley-Harrington
Judith K Harrington <judithkharrington@yahoo.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 10:40:43 (EST)
Harry, good job. Talked to Bob Corrie and Wayne Benson about the NJ article. We need another flats reunion soon before we are too old.
Don Werkheiser <myrt@udel.com >
Wilm, de USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 10:31:15 (EST)
YAY, Harry! Old Wilmington Net got it's 15-minutes of fame!! It must feel like you have a brand new baby? :o) It's a great article. Thanks for posting it for us. Those were the days, my friends....
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 09:44:31 (EST)
Born in St.Francis hospital,(50's),and raised near 3rd & Dupont st.,I'm remembering the old KRUGER BREWERY that was located at 5th & Dupont st. When I was a young boy, myself and friends would catch Birds (Pidgions) from inside that (abandoned at the time)..BREWERY. When we climbed to the top, and looked out of the mostly broken windows, we could see all of Wilmington. GREAT MEMORIES !!!
James J. Clark Jr. <junie1952@hotmail.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 09:38:49 (EST)
Carol Jane. Good to hear from you. I see that you are a frequent contributor to this nostalgia website. What in the world are you doing in Italy? Would love to see the Old Country where my Italian grandparents (Cesare and Aglisa Ciabottoni)were born. That little street you spoke of is Hawley Street and still there (...but don't know about the parrot, though. I believe that belonged to the Jolly family). Still stop around Rodman Street from time to time since my Aunt Mary (the late Buddy Ciabottoni's mom; remember him?)is still among us. She's always lived across the street from Joe's store. Joe, sadly, passed away a few months ago. Perhaps, if you access www.delawareonline.com, you might get the Crossroads article on how the Rogerson's masterfully put www.oldwilmington.net together. Kudos to them. Had no idea this existed for six years. My hands were trembling when I wrote my first nostalgia piece. I'm thinking of colloborating with Jack Ireland to write about the West Wilmington Woodlawn boys. Joanne Z now lives in San Francisco and in the real estate biz. Will zip an e-mail note to let her know you wrote. Take care and write again.
Bruce Esdale <bruce.esdale@basell.com>
Newark, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 09:28:56 (EST)
It has been great reading the comments from all the new visitors to this site. Lots of good information out there that we are being treated to. Good to have new blood on this page. Bud
Bud <bu49@poolesite.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 08:01:07 (EST)
If anyone could possibly send me a copy of the News Journal article, I would really appreciate it. My uncle was also on the Wilmington Police Force at the time so I think he's probably in the picture. It would be so nice to share with our relatives here in Italy.
Carol Merlini <caroljane.merlini@aliceposta.it>
Pescara, Abruzzo Italy - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 07:44:36 (EST)
Harry, or anyone else: is there Internet access to the article in the paper about you and this site? Was it in today's (Feb.25th) paper, or yesterday's? I really look forward to reading it!!!
Bob Wilson <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Stamford, CT USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 07:32:55 (EST)
Ralph...yes, Hoot was my wonderful Dad. He actually retired from the force as a Captain in the Patrol Division in 1969. He died in 1998. I recognize your name, so my Dad must have spoken of you several times. My Mom died in 2001. I have two brothers and two sisters and we all still live in the Wilmington area. Keep in touch.
Carol Gibson Illingworth <cillingworth@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 07:32:16 (EST)
I remember when the smoke shop was a kiosk in the old train station at Delaware Ave and DuPont Street. If you look behind the billboards at the location you can see the old tunnel that lead to the tracks. As a youngster we used to sled there and go into the upper station waiting area where there was a wood stove to warm up. Does anyone else remember the brewery on 6th and DuPont? I was a pinboy at the old bowling alley in the Central YMCA when they used to have duck pin bowling. After I was done I would go to either the soda fountain in the Y or the counter in Woolworths at 9th and Market and have either a cherry coke ( with real cherry!) or a vanilla 400 ( vanilla, milk and ice). I would also go to the matinees at the Park on Union St but also the monster matiness at the grand on Market St. I also remember as a child my mother would take me to Dry Goods and I would stay at the 4 cent table the whole time she was shopping and selct what I thought were treasures. Such memories seem like to "good old days" when things seemed simple.
Mike Kaszeta <spiritof12@excite.com>
Wilm, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 07:25:43 (EST)
Bruce Esdale. I remember you. My Uncle Mike lived on Rodman down the street from Pulgini's. My grand-parents lived on 6th between Rodman and that little street before Greenhill. Can't remember the name of that little street but a family lived there that had a big, green parrot. Your cousin, Joanne Z was a good friend of mine.
~~~~~ ~~~~ ~~~~~~~ <caroljane.merlini@aliceposta.it>
Pescara, Abruzzo Italy - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 06:18:36 (EST)
>1. I remember well, The Ice Truck coming to our house bringing Blocks of Ice 2 times a week for our refrigerator. at 2112 N. Claymont St. on the Eastside. 2. I also remember The Coal Truck dumping Coal down a Chute into the Basement of our House to heat our house- my children today never heard of Coal. 3. I remember collecting old newspapers from neighbors every week & tyeing them to a wagon & taking them to Potters Junk Yard ( near Vander Ave. & Govenor Printz Highway) for money so I could go to the movies for 9 cents every Saturday. 4. All of kids in the neighborhood on the Eastside always looked for old Soda Bottles, washed them to return to Sivers Grocery Store for 2 cents each for spending money. 5. We as kids used to buy fresh loose potato chips in a medium size brown paper bag from Silver's Store for 5 cents each. " THOSE WERE THE GOOD OLE DAYS"
Charlotte Ennis <seecharlottesweb@aol.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 05:38:15 (EST)
HOW ABOUT "THE DRUM SHOP" ON DELAWARE AVE. "TOUHEYS SMOKE SHOP" ON DELAWARE AVE ACROSS FROM THE BUS BARN. GALLO TRUCKING WERE SHINNS IS ON LOVERING AVE.JUSTICE BROS.APPLIANCE ON AUGUSTINE CUT-OFF,HORISKS "LITTLE STORE" ON LINCOLN STREET.FREIHOFFERS BAKERY ON PENNA. AVE&LINCOLN AND SUNBEAM BAKERY AT UNION&9TH.THE POST HOUSE REST.ON PENNA.AVE(NOW UNION PARK GMC).THE OLD WOODEN ROW HOMES ON UNION STREET(NOW ST.ANNS PARKING LOT)
jay bachmurski <jay1057@hotmail.com>
wilm, de USA - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 00:46:17 (EST)
>Re: Milk Trucks. I remember the glass bottles of milk delivered to our door.I loved getting the milk in the Winter, when the cream rose to the top of the bottle and was real icy. Since no one in my family liked the cream,I always got to have it on my cereal.Boy was that good.I can almost taste it right now.
K Burton <breckslnkid10@yahoo.com>
Pike Creek, De USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 22:52:52 (EST)
Speaking of small basketball courts, our team (A.I. duPont) had a game at the old Wilmington High around 1946 or 47. I have only a vague recollection, but I seem to recall that the court was really tiny, and had a wire screen (cage) surrounding it that extended from the floor to an upper track balcony. Can anyone verify this, or am I thinking of some other place?
Tom Wood <twood@hoflink.com>
Albertson, NY USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 22:34:54 (EST)
The lists for furniture business' is missing the listing of Miller Bros. , started by my great grandfather Nathan Miller and his brother Seymour...don't have the opening date but it was in the early 1900's..The first store was opened in downtown Wilmington at 9th and King ...or was it 9th and Orange..can't rememeber right now but I will double check and repost later...
Michael Wirtschafter <miksdogs@comcast.net>
Newark, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 22:34:50 (EST)
>I remember as a kid see and hearing the milk truck stop at the end of the driveway and bring the glass bottles of milk and cream to the front door...Hypoint milk trucks...Yellow with green lettering back then , if my memory serves me right...and the trucks were real small , like the size of the jitneys at Atlantic City...tiny..
Michael Wirtschafter <miksdogs@comcast.net>
Newark, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 22:26:52 (EST)
My birth name is Claramae Robinson. My family moved into Browntown in October 1949 from Dela.City. I went to No.19 school in Browntown then to Bayard Jr. High then to Wilmington High on Delaware Ave. I quit at the end of my 10th year. I just read all the letters of nostalgia and remember all the places mentioned. I use to work at the Wilm. Dry Goods and the Mr. Peanut Store on 4th Street. I use to eat lunch everyday at Woolworth's at 8th & Market. Seen movies at the movie houses on Delaware Ave. and Market Street. My shoes came from Buster Browns on 3rd & Market. Thank you all for bringing back some forgotten memories. Clara {CnWLocke@aol.com
Clara Anne Lockwood <CnWLocke@aol.com>
Sudlersville, MD USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 21:23:13 (EST)
Remember the Town Talk restaurant? It was on Delaware Ave and ? in town? They won a national crab imperial contest. They chicken caccitore was pretty darn good too!
Judy Phillips Jester <judygems44@aol.com>
Wilmington, de USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 21:17:31 (EST)
Please add Orlichs drug store to your list. It was Lancaster and ?
Judy Phillips Jester <judygems44@aol.com>
Wilmington, de USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 21:12:01 (EST)
During the early 1960's, I played CYO basketball for Our Lady of Fatima. As we didn't have a gym, Mary C.I. Williams was where most of our games were played. I remember the wonderful janitor, who was always there to meet us and let us in. We were really grateful to have a gym to play in, but it was a challenge! The floor had all kinds of games painted on it and sometimes finding the foul line was very interesting. There were ropes coming down and tied to the sides, so when you shot the ball, you had to sometimes navigate the ropes. Then there was the issue of going out of bounds! That simply meant bouncing off the wall, because there was literally no out of bounds area. However, my memories of playing basketball in that gym are precious. Girls basketball went through so many changes during the 1960's and we experienced them all. One thing I think is missing today, however, is how we took cared for not only our team, but those we were playing. If they fell, we helped them up. We weren't out there to hurt each other. I think her name was Ms. Brooks, not sure, but she taught us etiquite on the court and she is greatly missed today. P. Patricia Peterson (Pat)
Pat Peterson <Ppeter3800@aol.com>
Bear, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 21:10:28 (EST)
>Please add Blumenthals to your list of busineses. It was located at Maryland Avenue (now Martin Luther King) and Monroe Streets.
Judy Phillips Jester <judygems44@aol.com>
wilmington, de USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 21:09:17 (EST)
Hi....I grew up on Monroe Street and then on Adams Street. Remember the Adams Street freeway that came in and took all of our homes? We loved our neighbors. We all visited each other when we got something new! We took rides in someone's new car! New items were special and shared. Bloomies was Bluemethals.......down the street. Exxon was Esso. We had a Kaiser car. What I miss most about that time is the feeling of being safe and also being close to your neighbors. My Uncle sang on the Wilson line! We took rides on the Wilson line to Marshall Hall Park and to Mount Vernon (from Washington DC). WE all went to Wildwood for vacation. We had Toni dolls instead of Barbie. Anyone out there from M. C. I. Williams? Bayard Junior High? Wilmington High? This is a wonderful site. I have multiple books I've collected about Wilmington.
Judy Jester <judygems44@aol.com>
Wilmington, de USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 21:03:36 (EST)
Great article Harry.My wife also grew up in Browntown.One hundred block Cedar St When I dated her for a movie it was suit and tie and a trolly trip to Market StThat was in the forties.One of the few Italian families in Browntown.Enjoy the site
bill rogers <brogers@delanet.com>
PIKE CREEK, de USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 20:41:14 (EST)
HI CAROL, YOU MENTIONED THAT YOUR DAD WAS ON THE WILM. P.D. . WAS HE WILLIAM (HOOT) GIBSON ? YOU MENTIONED THAT A PHOTO. OF YOUR DAD WAS IN THE LOCAL PAPER. THE PHOTO HAD BEEN TAKEN IN 1955. I WENT ON THE FORCE IN 1956. . IN 195 8 I HAD A SGT, NAMED GIBSON . HE WAS ONE OF THE MOST WONDERFUL GUY,S I EVER MET . WE BECAME FRIENDS . . IT WAS HE THAT GOT ME STARTED IN UNDER COVER VICE WORK. . LET ME KNOW IF HOOT WAS ANY RELATION TO YOU. . MY SGT. GIBSON RETIRED A INSPECTOR ! AND IS NOW NO LONGER WITH US . PS YOUR DAD AND I HAD MANY ,MANY LAUGHS TOGEATHER, IF HE IS THE SAME WILLIAM GIBSON.
ralph pryor <REPJFK>
TARPON SPRINGS, FL USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 20:28:00 (EST)
I have to add my Dad's & Mom's business to good Ole Wilmington. Dad & Mom had Silverside Greenhouse & Mushroom House on Silverside Road, the sight of the now, Branmar Plaza. Dad used to raise the best hot house tomatoes, the skins were not tough like the tomatoes today. His mushrooms were the best, big and white. Customers could go right into the packing house and buy the mushrooms while Mom was packing them to send to the N.Y. markets. They also used to sell flowers, plants, and many a customer would leave with a few extra flowers, tomatoes, etc.
Mary Hartnett <Rhart98625@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 20:00:32 (EST)
Does anyone remember the fountain sodas at Maida's Pharmacy at Front & Harrison?
Tommy Anuszewski <tomaray@msn.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 19:53:52 (EST)
Do you remember Hartnett's Meat Market at 623 Madison Street. Jay Hartnett used to make soup on a pot bellied stove in the rear of the store and serve it to his customers - free. Anyone remember the bookies, barbershop, hardware store, Golden Glow Cafe, Phil's sub shop,Serpe's Bakery, a shoemaker shop, Bert Shockley's poultry house ( pick out a live chicken, kill it, clean it, it's yours), and a corner candy shop, ALL ON THE SAME BLOCK!!!!! Now those were the days my friends.
Mary Hartnett <Rhart98625@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 19:52:52 (EST)
Please add Cedar Hill Elementary to your list of schools. When I was in the 6th grade I was one of the students walking from No. 19 School to our new school on the hill. My 6th grade class only spent the one year in the school. I also remember helping place the ceramic tiles in the mural at the entrance. Having just recently relocated back to Delaware, I believe Cedar Hill has changed its name again....to Pulaski?
Faith Carter Simpers <FCS321@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 19:41:15 (EST)
This a great site.I saw the article in the paper today(2/24/05). I grew up in the Bancroft Parkway part of the city.Went to St.Thomas grade school,then to Sallies.The time was the 60's to the 70's.I met my wife of 33years at the old Wilmington Dry Goods(nice to see the pics).She graduated from Wilmington High 1969(Henderson maiden name).My father was a city policeman retiring in 1971.I really enjoy reading the reviews in the forum.
Art <athursby>
Newark, De USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 19:35:54 (EST)
Anyone interested in a 1964 Conrad Reunion? Sadly we missed our 40th. Anyone?
Lynn <Lynnmako@aol.com>
Newark, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 19:29:45 (EST)
This is my first visit to the site. I found out about this site in today's News Journal (Thursday, Feb 24) - Crossroads section. I was born and raised in Wilmington from 1958 through 1974. I grew up in "The Flats" and attended Lore School. My father worked for Woodlawn Trustees. Both of my parents grew up in The Flats two doors down from each other on Ferris St. This site really brings back great old memories. My rememberings of Wilmington that I don't see posted (could just be my oversight though): 1) Hilda's Candy Store on King Street (7th or 8th in King??) 2) Rosbrow's Newsstand (was next to Robino's on 6th and Union). Now it is an open lot. 3) A&P Grocery Story across from Hoy's 5&10 on Union street. Before we went grocery shopping, my mom would take us to Hoy's 5&10 first and we would sit at the soda fountain and have french fries and a vanilla coke. 4) New York Restaurant - next to Wilmington Dry Goods on 4th and Market Street. The had the best banana cream pie. I believe when this restaurant closed it turned into The Comedy Cabaret. 5) Reynolds Candy Store on Market Street (7th or 8th Street?). There is a restaurant there now but can't remember the name of it. 6) Little Sister's of the Poor on 5th & Bancroft Parkway. 7) Chuck Wagon Restaurant on Kirkwood Hwy - remember being served in the parking lot. The waitresses would come up to your car, clip on a tray and take your order. 8) Hearn's Restaurant on Market Street - I remember they had a children's treasure chest in the lobby and we couldn't wait to pick out a toy. Was also eatting dinner there with my family one evening when I first heard that Elvis Presley died. 9) Tonic's Bar and Restaurent on 6th St. Around the corner from Robino's. 10) The little playground that was behind Lore School. It was a cement playground. It had monkey bars, hop scotch, see-saws, and that pinwheel type of ride (you put one foot on the wooden floor and one foot on the ground and push it around in a fast circle with your foot(I just cannot think of the name of it). The lot is still there but it is empty. 10) The racial riots during the 60's. I remember living on 5th and Bancroft Parkway and having a curfew to be off the streets. I also remember sleeping in my bedroom and hearing the National Guard running across my roof and looking out from my 2nd floor bedroom window across the alleyway and seeing the National Guard running across those roofs with machine guns. There are a couple of places that I cannot think of their names. Maybe someone can help. 1) The drug store that was on union street directly across from Rosbrow's Newsstand (6th & Union). It was next store to the Fusco's (sp?) water ice - which is still there and I still love those water ices. The building is still there. I remember the building had steps to walk up to the front door. 2) The laundry mat that was one the corner of 5th & Union. Righ next door to Frankie's sub shop. I remember my mom didn't have a dryer back then and would take her clothes there to dry on bad weather days. 3) The furniture store that was across union street from the Union Street Pharmacy at 4th and Union (I used to call the Union Street Pharmacy - Bob's Drug Store). 4) A little clothing store on 4th street. Around the Scott Street area that I my mom had to take me to each year to buy by Lore School gym suit. I think that was the only store that sold those specific gym suits.
Donna Hurlock <dhurlock@csc.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 19:22:56 (EST)
Anyone remember Wolhar's Grocery Store at the corner of PA Ave and Scott? It was an RGE store; opened when PA Ave was a dirt road and closed in 1960. Across PA avenue at that corner was the Wolhar Gas Station (originally a feed and bag store) and a small package store. Would love to share memories with anyone who remembers.
lillian wolhar wassam jones <lilliwass@aol.com>
Middletown, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 19:02:38 (EST)
I remember the Park Theater on Union St. being PACKED for the Saturday matinees. They were sitting in the aisles when GODZILLA came out. Admission was 25 cents. Canby Pool was our summer hangout. And the Street Dances in Elsmere! Hey, how come Elsmere is not listed in your Neighborhoods secion?
Lynn <lynnmako@aol.com>
Newark, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 19:02:22 (EST)
Lynthwaite is the spelling of the Concord Pike homemade ice cream stand. You might add the Brandywine Pastry Shop at 2302 N. Market Street from 1946 to 1971 under Bakeries.
Lorraine Przywara <lprzywara@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 18:57:36 (EST)
What about Linthwaites (sp)where Concord Mall is know. Simply the best with the bullseye trashcan on way out.
Herb Hirzel <hirzel3rd@aol.com>
Wilm., de USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 17:39:29 (EST)
Rember Green Hill Drive In. Pop,s soda shop behind Wilm. High Govatos candy store. market st. Grady's pool hall 8th & Market Dancying at Armory 10 th & du Pont, St Elizabeth's, Scared Heart's
Dominick J. Romano <dominickjromano@hotmail.com>
Newark, De USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 17:33:47 (EST)
Hey! What about Mitch Thomas and the Night Train music on WILM in the evenings. Everyone in the late 50's and 60's from Wilmington listened to him. No mention of him in the Radio or Sounds Section. Pisala Bakery not mentioned, was located at first where DiFonza's Bakery on Union St. and moved on 6th St. between Union & Lincoln Sts., sold only Pizza. How about Spags, and Frankies on Union St. How about Gin's, first on 6th & Scott, moved to 6th & Lincoln where the old Ritters Furniture store was.
Nick <nickidigi@comcast.net>
New Castle, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 17:06:54 (EST)
I have really enjoyed reading all the old Wilmington nostalgia. I grew up on 27th St. in the old Ninth Ward. Life was such fun back then. I went to Christ Our King School and then on to Ursuline Academy. What memories I have of the Yard, St. Eliz. and Sallies dances and the Grady & Hurst Show, swimming at Prices Run Pool and walking to Bringhurst woods. Does any one remember going to the dances at St. Pat's church and then stopping at Pop's Soda Shop at 25th & Market on the way home. How about the tomato pies from M&M Bakery and the playground at 25th & Tatnall. Life in that neighborholld was so full of life back in the 50's. We could walk anywhere and knew all our neighbors, so different than that area today. I would love to hear from any who lived in that area in the 50's.
Sandy Paski Conner <bsconne@msn.com>
Bear, De USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 16:14:55 (EST)
Who remembers the Ringling Bros., Barnum and Bailey Circus at 30th and Gov.Printz Blvd? I used to watch them putting up the Big Top from my Dad's office on the 9th Floor of the Delaware Trust Bldg. Also does anyone remember what was located on 9th street between Shipley and Orange Sts, presently the parking garage? The old Post Office.
Jim Hughes <jhuh238@comcast.net>
Chadds Ford, PA USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 16:10:05 (EST)
I grew up in Little Italy, went to Lore elementry school, there was a man with a push cart and sold home made candy ,he had a long curled mustache.Then there was Bayard Jr. High and lets not forget Wilm. High . Pop,s soda shop in bach of school were we eat our lunch. And after school walked down town too Govatos candy store for soda.
Diminick J. Romano <dominickjromano@hotmail.com>
Newark, De. USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 16:08:26 (EST)
I remember Laveechia's Bakery at the corner of Gilpin and Scott where Gallagher and Gallagher is now.
Nancy <njcoll@hotmail.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 15:48:49 (EST)
I really enjoyed seeing names of stores that I remember from years ago. My family owned and operated Carney's Camera Center in Elsmere from 1959 to 1992. It's fun to read about places that are gone, but we fondly remember them as if it was yesterday.
Kathy Carney Phillips <kathyp123@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 15:06:48 (EST)
Great site from today's News Journal! I remember my dad driving us over to Wilmington after WWII (no gas or tires during war) by way of Pennsville/New Castle ferry from Bridgeton, NJ to attend movies. No Memorial Bridge yet. Wilmington always had a special look to me with wonderful buildings,hills and great movie theatres. Little did I ever suspect that someday in 1965 I would move to Bellefont and then to Newark to raise a family! We knew Lehman's Frozen Custard on Gov. Prinz Blvd. very, very well!
ClaireBear <pumpkingrdmom@aol.com>
Newark, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 15:02:40 (EST)
I remember The Candy Kitchen at 7th & Harrison Streets in Wilmington. It had a soda fountain and booths. Was a great, quiet place to hang out.
Anita Cartwright <msnitacart@aol.com>
Townsend, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 14:58:19 (EST)
I enjoyed the article in today's paper. My father is in the picture of the Wilmington Police Department 1955 Memorial Day Parade. I have that picture and can identify all of the other officers if anyone is interested. I grew up near Price Run Park and went to George Gray, Warner and P. S. duPont.
Carol Gibson Illingworth <cillingworth@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 14:56:44 (EST)
I read the article in today's paper and it really excited me.I've been scanning through and it really brings back good memories.I went to St. Paul's and ST. E's.We went to Riverview on the ferry and that was the thrill of a lifetime.In high school i worked in Green's Five and Dime and sometimes Dry Goods on dollar day. The dances were always good,St. E's, Sallies,Armory.And who could forget Grady and Hurst.We would take and O'Neals bus and go there dancing.What a big deal that was.It was a great city to grown up in, and i have a lot of good memories. Thank you for this website.It is fabulous. Cathy
cathy kuntzmann <decathy41@aol.com>
wilm, de USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 14:41:51 (EST)
This site brings back some fond memories. My parents and I lived in the New Castle area across from the airport which at that time was a military base. On Saturdays my mother and I would take a bus and go to Wilmington to shop. There were no malls and Wilmington was THE place to go. And at that time everyone dressed up to go shopping in Wilmington! We'd always stop for lunch at the Splendid Lunch Restaurant. Sometimes we'd go to a matinee at the Warner. Later on I remember attending singles social activities like SCOUP(does anyone have info on Bunny Horgan?)and GIGIF. Thanks for the memories.
Carole Nemes Clarke <CNClarke@AOL.com>
Thornton, PA USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 14:21:25 (EST)
About the knife grinder--the father owned the business--his name was Alvise DiLena--his son took over the business--his name was Francis DiLena. The business was out of Elsmere. JoAnn
JoAnn Walling Maiorano <jwmaio@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 14:03:39 (EST)
Great job. My family had owned Schelich's Bakery in Browntown! I'm presently the Assistant Pastor at St. Hedwig Chursh and I'm an Oblate of St. Francis de Sales, having bees assigned also at St.Anthony of Padua Parish in the 90's. Fr. Roberto was my Pastor at that time. He is truly a great Priest and a good friend of mine! Fr. Tony Schelich, OSFS
Rev. Anthony T.Schelich <aschelich@comcast.net>
Wilmington, De USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 13:32:20 (EST)
Remember Hoy's 5$10 on second and Union. We used to go there everyday after school and have a cherry coke ansd fries.
Donna Saragino Degnars <ddegnars@aol.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 13:05:34 (EST)
you can add george's at 4th & clayton to your tavern list am i supposed to be able to access postings by catagory?
zeke <fazfaz36@hotmail.com>
wilm. ., de. USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 12:58:04 (EST)
I forgot one. We lived on Second Street near the tracks by Greenhill Avenue. There used to be a man that walked up the street with a saddled pony and gave rides (for a small fee). Never knew where he came from.
David Adamovage <adamovag@mindspring.com>
Pennsville , NJ USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 12:23:24 (EST)
How about the Oscar Meyer Wienermobile, shaped like a hot dog, that used to tour the neighborhoods. The John's Body Shop car with 2 fronts.
David Adamovage <adamovag@mindspring.com>
Pennsville, NJ USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 12:18:41 (EST)
I read about your website in the Journal today, Feb24, 2005. It brought back many memories of slower times in Wilmington, and safer times. I was born and raised in the Hedgeville area. I was one of the last students to graduate from the old Wilmington High School, those were realy great days. Foot ball games at Baynard stadium. I remember the ice man going thru the neighborhoods delivering ice to those who had ice boxes. The policemen walking the beat, the westend dairy milk man leaving milk,butter and cream on our door step. Going to Dravo's back learning to drive. Thanks for this great website of oldWilmington memories. Joan Wilson
Joan Janvier Wilson <iceskate500@yqhoo.com>
Bear, De USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 12:10:06 (EST)
you can update the sub shop list to include joes and tonys on e.4th st that was across the street from my grandmothers.they not only had good subs and steaks but a pinball machine that cost 5 cents for 5 balls.the store was torn down years ago. also does anyone remember the large mr. peanut standing outside of the planters peanut store on market st?
bill a <millereve@aol.com>
newark, de USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 12:09:59 (EST)
I grew up in the 300 block of E. 22nd St., Went to Trinity ME Church, loved the area. Graduated from PS in 48. My Dad, Webb Trivits owned the Pure Oil Station at 24th & Market for 19 years, until the early 40's when Gulf Oil took over the Pure Oil Company...the Gas Station was across from the Strand Sweet Shop and the movie theatre. Remember???
Peg Trivits Hart <hartpeg@comcast.net>
Hockessin, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 12:08:50 (EST)
I remember my father as a Wilmington Fireman at the Masons Record Store. The loss of a life there of a fellow fireman that day and how it affected the families of all that day. Would like to see some picture of Wilm. Fireman at parades, fires, etc during the 50's
Hannah Helm Walraven <hwalraven1@juno.com>
wilmington, Delaware USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 11:59:17 (EST)
just read about this site in morning paper skimmed over it for now but I was born in in little italy and was a first graduate of Padua in 1958. i lived in canby park before it was technically built in a home built by the owner of the ground...i remember the bridge being built and the row homes in the park. every weekend my uncle took my brothers and me to the movies downtown so i remember them well..can't wait to look at this site in greater detail
elizabeth rapuano ganc <mslganc@aol.com>
wilmington, de USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 11:48:10 (EST)
I was always fascinated with life in the olden days. I used to ask my great-aunt lots of questions about life in early 20th century Wilmington. She was born on Gilpin Ave in 1896. Back in the horse and buggy days. I no longer have that her as a resource, so it's excellent to go to this site and get a feel for what it was like living in Wilmington in he mid century point. You 30 something folks are great resource......!
Sean <sekirk1518@msn.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 11:45:04 (EST)
Does anyone remember Teddy the Huckster? Moonlight rides on the Wilson Liner. I was born and raised in Wilmington.
EILEEN MOFFETT <EEWM@COMCAST.NET>
NEWARK, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 11:13:44 (EST)
I read about this site in this morning's paper and just love it. I was born in Wilmington in 1938, became a Wilmington policeman in 1939 and retired in 1980. My father drove for Delaware Coach until he retired n 1969, with time out for service in the Pacific in WWII. Great site!
John Barry <Lbarry6000@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 10:44:09 (EST)
I graduated from St. Thomas the Apostle School in 1954 and Padua Academy in 1958. Thanks for so many memories. St. Elizabeth dances and going to Riverview Park on the Wilson Line and so many memories.
Joanna M. Gardner <nanagard>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 09:49:06 (EST)
Elsmere Dances Wilmington Manor Lion's Club Dances Jerry Blavat Dances Ice Skating in Eden Park, New Castle and 8th and DuPont Street Wilmington Dry Goods Dollar Days
Cathie Brodowski <cathpeach@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 09:48:57 (EST)
A business that began in 1953 and owned and operated by my family until 1983...The Brandywine Raceway...Broke ground in 1952 and the first 30 day racing season was in the late spring of 1953 . It was a fabulous place to gather and enjoy some harness action without having to travel real far. As the years went on , the track expanded from just having a grandstand to including a huge clubhouse that could seat up to 1000 people for dinner and drinks. A common spot to find DuPonters after a long grueling day at Experimental Station , which at the time was the largest single employer of the state. Many different celebrities visited our wonderful track ; from entertainers such as Dizzy Gillespie and Duke Ellington , to sports legends like Mike Schmidt and Bobby Clarke. I have so many memories of the track that I could ramble on for days .
Michael Wirtschafter <miksdogs@comcast.net>
Newark, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 09:39:21 (EST)
My School was William Penn but I grew up in Richardson Park and attended Conrad for 1 year till we moved. When I ride through the old neighborhood now, I see that not much has changed except for the sign on the front of Conrad. It was a sad day when they made it into a middle school. The Cherry and Black will be fondly remembered.
Bev Morris (Windish) <annmorris391@aol.com
New Castle, De USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 08:56:11 (EST)
To the person that inquired about the LINCOLN CAMERA SHOP. NO, sadly the camera shop is no longer in existance. It was on the NW corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and Union Sts. A WW II combat photographer (Louis Borelli) owned and operated the shop from about 1947/8 until sometime around the late 70's. I hope that this helps... Mike
M. Mc Grath <o_leprechaun@email.com
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 08:49:40 (EST)
I grew up in Wilmington and graduated Brown Voc in 1959. Those were some of the best days of my life. Does any one remember Mr. Schommer?
Ray Morris <annmorris391@aol.com
New Castle, De USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 08:49:08 (EST)
I forgot to name the school. H.F. Brown Voc. H.S.
ROBERT SEIDLE <ROBERT_SEIDLE@URSCORP.COM
NEWARK, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 07:05:37 (EST)
Wow! Great to see something about Wilmington that I think about constantly. I don't see much of West Wilmington nostalgia especially about the guys known as the "Woodlawners", namely, people such as myself, Jack Ireland (now a News Journal sports reporter. Remember his collie dog, Terry?), Larry Dugan, Fran and Mike Berry, Bill, Len and Bobby Fischer, Marty Riley, Ed Lore, Ralph Walsh, George Pauley and many others. We hung out (lived, rather)at Joe Pulgini's store on Sixth and Rodman Sts during all of the 60's and early 70's. I resided at 2200 West 6th for many years before moving to 525 North Union St. My grandparents, George and Marion Esdale, lived next to the Woodlawn Library at 2103 West 6th. Can remember 25-cent movies at the "Park" with Saturday matinees and the mean manager of the ushers. Mr. Guidici the tough gym teacher at Lore School. Fournier Hall. Wilmington High School (my alma mater). Playing basketball at the Armory. Sports all year-round at Woodlawn Park. Ed Bouchee, Richie Ashburn, Granny Hamner and Pancho Herrara of the Phillies. My uncles Joe and Dave Zappaterrine's rolls and pastries at Zappaterrine's Bakery. Ahhh! Memories.
Bruce Esdale <bruce.esdale@basell.com>
Newark, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 07:03:41 (EST)
My dad graduated in the first class to go through the grades, his brother a few years after. I was in the class of 1962. A great school, some of the best years of my life.
ROBERT SEIDLE <ROBERT_SEIDLE@URSCORP.COM
NEWARK, DE USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 06:59:36 (EST)
Is the Lincoln Camera Shop still around? If so, is it still where it was in the 60s?
Connie <nospamwantedatyahoo.com
Wilmington, de USA - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 03:21:03 (EST)
THE SENIOR MOMENT HAS PASSED: THE OTHER BROTHER'S NAME WAS SAUL SIEGEL!
MARY K. (DUNLOP) KENNEDY-SCHAUER <MK.KENNEDY@SBCGLOBAL.NET
OTTAWA, IL USA - Wednesday, February 23, 2005 at 18:14:53 (EST)
DEAR HARRY, WHEN I WAS A YOUNG GIRL, THERE WAS A DRUG STORE, THE LINCOLN DRUG STORE LOCATED AT DELAWARE AVENUE AND LINCOLN STREET. THERE WERE 2 BROTHERS THAT OWNED IT, JOEL SIEGAL WAS ONE OF THEM. HORISK'S GROCERY STORE WAS ACROSS THE STREET ON THE OTHER CORNER, ALSO. I NOTICED WHEN I JUST TRIED TO ACCESS THE ARCHIVE FILES THAT IT WOULD NOT ALLOW ME TO DO SO.
MARY K. (DUNLOP) KENNEDY-SCHAUER <MK.KENNEDY@SBCGLOBAL.NET
OTTAWA, IL USA - Wednesday, February 23, 2005 at 18:11:03 (EST)
Park Theater Union Street Saturday kids matinee from 11:45 AM unitl 4-4:15 PM
Tom Colombo <tomcolombo@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, February 23, 2005 at 17:05:55 (EST)
I really appreciate this website. I have been proud of Wilmington and it's people. Being only 41, I don't have the memories that most of you are blessed with. I have always had a hunger for history, so I really it this stuff up. I learn so much on this site! Thanks All
SEAN <sekirk1518@msn.com>
WILMINGTON, DE USA - Wednesday, February 23, 2005 at 15:51:08 (EST)
BOBBY V. Thanks for the reply. I grew up, married early, and spent my life walking the line; while my spirt was soaring the skies or flying under that darn bridge! I love the adventure stories you all share here. My life is sweet, however, I always feel like I missed something wonderful out there. Maybe next time around? Harry R: I like the change to, "Nostalgia."
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Tuesday, February 22, 2005 at 14:51:23 (EST)
AS MOST OF YOU KNOW. MY DAD WORKED 38 YRS WITH THE DEL. COACH CO, WHICH IS NOW CALLED DART. I TOLD HOW MY DAD OPERATED TROLLY,S, THEN THE TRACKLESS TROLLY,S AND THEN THE MODERN BUS !. BUT I WAS JUST WONDERING HOW MANY OF YOU GUY,S RODE ON THE CIRCUS WAGON ? WHEN YOU FIRST CLICK ON TO THE GUEST BOOK IT SHOWS YOU PHOTO,S OF THE TRACKLESS TROLLY,S THEN THE BUSES. ONE OF THE BUSES HAS MERRY CHRISTMAS WRITTEN ON THE SIDE OF IT.. FOR MANY YEAR,S THE DEL. COACH CO.USED ONE BUS FOR ADVERTISEMENT. . THIS BUS WAS COULD BE ADVERTISEING THE WILM. FLOWER SHOW, OR W.I.L.M RADIO ,ETC.. THE BUS DRIVERS WOULD TAKE TURNS HAVING THE CIRCUS WAGON TO DRIVE ON THERE ROUT. AND WOULD KID THE DRIVER WHO HAD TO DRIVE IT THAT DAY. AS A YOUNG BOY , I HEARD A LOT OF KIDDING ABOUT THE CIRCUS WAGON, THANK,S FOR SHOWING IT ON THE OLDWILM..NET
ralph pryor <REPJFK>
TARPON SPRINGS, FL USA - Monday, February 21, 2005 at 22:07:19 (EST)
i was there also. Father Tucker gave me my first communion. He also spoke fluent Italian. Also went to Italy a few years ago with Father Robert. great historian.
Sam Ciroalo <samciroalo@comcast.net >
Bonita Springs , FL USA - Monday, February 21, 2005 at 21:49:10 (EST)
ABOUT FATHER TUCKER BLESSING THE HOT DOGS!!!!IT WAS WHEN THE ITALIAN CARNIVAL WAS HELD ON THE CHURCH GROUNDS...FATHER TUCKER HAD A BUNCH OF PEOPLE AROUND HIM (MOSTLY KIDS) HE SAID "DON'T FORGET TO SPEND MONEY ON THE RIDES & FOOD ETC. ETC". ONE OF THE KIDS SAID FATHER WE CAN'T EAT MEAT (HOT DOGS ) TODAY IT'S FRIDAY..JOKINGLY HE SAID I'LL BLESS THEM.........THAT'S THE STORY ABOUT THE HOT DOGS....... I KNOW BECAUSE I WAS THERE
JPASQUALE <JNPASQUALE@COMCAST.NET>
WILM, DE USA - Monday, February 21, 2005 at 20:58:48 (EST)
DOES ANYONE REMEMBER THE STORY ABOUT FATHER TUCKER TURNING HOT DOGS INTO FISH?
DAVE CAUFFMAN <CAUFFMANDS@AOL.COM>
HOCKESSIN, DE USA - Monday, February 21, 2005 at 20:36:37 (EST)
CAROL ! I REMEMBER ONE CHRISTMAS EVE AT THE MID NIGHT MASS THAT FATHER TUCKER HAD PRINCE RANIER (SPL) THERE...THE PRINCE PULLED UP WITH A POLICE ESCORT AND IN A BLK CHRYSLER ....FATHER TUCKER INTRODUCED ALL US BOYS TO THE PRINCE,WHO WAS REAL NICE TO US & SHOOK ALL OUR HANDS...........
JPASQUALE <JNPASQUALE@COMCAST.NET>
WILM, DE USA - Monday, February 21, 2005 at 18:41:33 (EST)
Sean, father Balducelli has obviously been blessed with the good Italian longevity genes. Many elderly people in this region of Italy are very active and get around totally unassisted. But in Italy, they arn't allowed to drive over a certain age. Also Father Robert often did construction work around the church so this probably helped keep him fit.
Carol Merlini <caroljane.merlini@aliceposta.it>
Pescara, PE Italy - Monday, February 21, 2005 at 12:57:10 (EST)
Jo Ann, Of course I would have flown under the bridge if there were no penalty. After all, I did fly 500 mph 50 feet above the deck to deliver napalm on the bad guys; all the while with them shooting at me!
Bob Veazey <bobbyvz@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, February 21, 2005 at 10:59:25 (EST)
Dr. Edward Reichert's obituary is in today's paper. He was the oral surgeon who used sodium pentathol (or a derivative of same) when doing dental or oral surgery work. His office was at Delaware Ave. & Broom St. (on Delaware Ave.). What a difference from shots in the mouth, and enduring the pain of tooth extractions, etc.; his assistant would put an IV in your arm, and ask you to count to ten. The next thing you remembered was waking up on a comfortable gurney, with a warm blanket covering you. And what a personality Dr. Reichert had, he put his patients at ease with his caring, light-hearted attitude. He was a wonderful gentleman and a great oral surgeon.
Bruce <spyderxlatcomcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, February 21, 2005 at 09:54:18 (EST)
Please add "Charlie's Market" at 10th & DuPont Streets. Thank you.
Donna L. Nash <donna.l.nash-2@usa.dupont.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, February 21, 2005 at 09:37:08 (EST)
Father Balducelli is truly a marvel. He's still drives. He regularly says the Tridintine pre-vatican II latin mass at St Patricks Church at 14th and King for the members of the Regina Coeli Society. Every sunday they have the Latin Mass at St Patricks at 10am. thanks to Fr Balducelli.
Sean <sekirk1518@msn.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Monday, February 21, 2005 at 09:14:05 (EST)
PS Father Jennings will be 92 yrs old on June 6th....God willing...
Sean <sekirk1518@msn.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Monday, February 21, 2005 at 08:27:51 (EST)
I'm impressed Pat. That is the very same Fr Jennings. He was ordained in 1940. He was at first stationed at St Marys on Pine St. From there he was assigned to an orphanage near Delware City, at a place called Reybold. Then, in the late 1940's, he was assigned to my current parish, St Ann's. He's still going strong. He's long retired and living at Fairfax Apartments off of Concord Pike. He regularly gives talks for groups and does one on one instrction with converts. In the course of his ministry he founded two parishes. First, Immaculate Heart of Mary, on Weldin Rd. Later he founded the Church of the Holy Child on Naamans..
Sean <sekirk1518@msn.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Monday, February 21, 2005 at 08:25:53 (EST)
Couldn't resist this little ditty. Back in the 80's one of my uncles was honored, at retirement, by the City of Wilmington with a dinner in the Gold Ballroom. In attendance were his immediate and extendeded family and good friends, as well as public notables such as the Police Chief, Mayor, Senator Joe Biden and Father Roberto Baldocelli. A black Pastor from a local Baptist Church gave the invocation and began by addressing everyone. He said, "Ladies and gentlemen, friends of the family, distinguished guests, Mayor Maloney, Senator Biden, Father BALDOCUCCI! Well, when we heard BALDOCUCCI instead of BALDOCELLI, and saw the look on Father Robert's face, our table went into uncontrollable muffled hysterics. Does anybody know how hard it is to not be able to laugh out loud at something really funny? Our faces were red and we were holding our stomachs and practically falling out of our chairs and under the table. To this day, we laugh like we did back then when anybody mentions it.
Carol Merlini <caroljane.merlini@aliceposta.it>
Pescara, Abruzzo Italy - Monday, February 21, 2005 at 08:11:26 (EST)
When I was a student at Padua 1961 and 62, Father Tucker was the personal Chaplin to Ranier and Princess Grace of Monaco. On a visit back to Wilmington, he addressed our class from the pulpit at St. Anthony's during one of our regular Wednesday masses. His topic, of course, was the Royal Family of Monaco and we Padua girls were thrilled to hear all about them.
Carol Merlini <caroljane.merlini@aliceposta.it>
Pescara, Abruzzo Italy - Monday, February 21, 2005 at 07:40:47 (EST)
Thank you, Sean, for reminding of us Father Jennings. If I remember correctly, there was a wonderful priest named Father Jennings back in my growing-up days in the 50's. He was at St. Anne's at the time. Always had a wonderful smile and a great disposition. His name was Father Jennings - don't remember his first name. Now, this is not pertinent; however, many of the ladies of the time from the 40 Acres said he looked exactly like Dennis Morgan (a movie star of the 40's and 50's films) and that he did! God bless him for his service to the Church in Wilmington and may he live many more years!
Patricia S. LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Sunday, February 20, 2005 at 20:35:52 (EST)
WALT: Ahhh, yes! That's who it was. Fr. Tucker, long-time Priest at St. Anthony's. There were big write-ups about that story in magazines and newspapers. However, I was drawing a total blank, tho. Thanks.
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Sunday, February 20, 2005 at 20:08:34 (EST)
I think the priest at St. Anthony's who introduced the prince to Grace was Father Tucker.
walt lafferty <laffert1@netzero.net>
Wheaton, MD USA - Sunday, February 20, 2005 at 19:28:06 (EST)
Okay, all you good St. Anthony boys and girls - Who was the Priest from there who was supposed to have introduced Grace Kelly to her Prince? I'm having a huge senior moment here...duh.
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Sunday, February 20, 2005 at 17:45:05 (EST)
CONNIE ! FATHER ROBERT IS STILL AT SAINT ANTHONY'S CHURCH
JNPASQUALE <JNPASQUALE@COMCAST.NET>
WILM, DE USA - Sunday, February 20, 2005 at 17:09:20 (EST)
Was in Wilmington last Thursday and passed St Anthony's. It was so good to be home and see something that seemingly hasn't changed. I wonder if Father Baudacelli (excuse spelling) is still there.
Connie <nospamwantedatyahoo.com>
Wilmington, de USA - Sunday, February 20, 2005 at 16:31:27 (EST)
PAT: I remember that rhyming song, also, but can't think of the last line. Harry B should know; he was a boy from 8th and West. Yep, Sean. That was it. And then as someone reminded me...there were: The Girls in Green, From Ursuline. Pat: It's like any city today, it depends on what part of Wilmington you're in. They have turned some of those great high-rise office buildings on Market street into fabulously expensive Condos.
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Sunday, February 20, 2005 at 16:29:41 (EST)
I remember a ditty that went: "We're the boys from 8th and West, we will always do our best, we are the boys with great determination. Oh, they say we are not tough, that's because we are not rough.........." I forget the last line. Does anyone out there know it? I was so sorry to read the online version of today's News-Journal's lead story about the sad state the City of Wilmington has fallen into. It seems nothing more than a cesspool of dope dealers, murderers and thieves. It seems the police can do nothing. Why are they powerless? Can this be our beloved city? The mayor is asking the governor for state help in cleaning up the neighborhoods. How did this happen? Any answers out there?
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Sunday, February 20, 2005 at 13:54:32 (EST)
8th and west is a Sallies grad from the old location of the school on west I bet. I have a good friend that is a graduate the 8th and west class of 1931. Yes, 1931. He's still driving too. He's the oldest living priest now in the diocese of Wilmington. Ordained in 1940. Father Bill Jennings. I bet some of you out there know of him.
Sean <sekirk1518@msn.com>
Wilmington, de USA - Sunday, February 20, 2005 at 13:44:36 (EST)
AS HARRY B. STATED. WE GOT TOGEATHER FOR LUNCH IN TARPON SPRINGS AND TALKED FOR AT LEAST A HOUR ., ABOUT WILM,DE, PEOPLE WE BOTH KNOW . AND PEOPLE WE BOTH MET IN FL..IN FACT FROM 1980 TILL 1986 ( I MOVED TO FL IN 1980) I WAS A SUPERVISOR OF. SECURITY AT A WELL KNOWN GOLF RESORT IN MY AREA LEFT THE JOB DUE TO A INJURY . AND HARRY CAME TO WORK THERE THAT SAME YEAR ! OF COURSE AFTER I HAD LEFT. HARRY AND I BOTH HATED TO PART CO TO DAY WE SAID OUR GOOD BYS . BUT WILL GET TOGEATHER AGAIN SOON. . IT IS A SMALL WORLD ----THANK,S TO THE OLDWILM.NET ! !
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK>
TARPON SPRINGS, FL USA - Saturday, February 19, 2005 at 23:34:50 (EST)
BOBBY V: Sadly, none of us would walk that section of Wilmington after dark today, and it's hardly safe in daylight. However, back when, if you could have, without losing your pilots license, would you have - flown UNDER the bridge? I have to know that!
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Friday, February 18, 2005 at 20:55:07 (EST)
HARRY B: Someone said to me__what does that mean: A boy from 8th and West? I said if he is one, he'll know. May I e-mail you with the name of the boy I know? I don't like to post peoples names online without asking them, and I haven't had contact with him for a long time now, but we ran in the same crowd for years. And, I can answer your question about how I know Tarpon Springs - just like you knew what I meant about 8th and West: I was married to a Greek for 37 years. But that was long ago, and I've been living happily-ever-after for a long time now :o)
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Friday, February 18, 2005 at 20:19:08 (EST)
Yes, I am one of the boys from 8th and West. I graduated in 1952. So who do you know from that era? Seems like you know a little bit about the Tarpon Springs area. Have you ever been here of just read a lot of good books about it? The first time I visited here in 1985 I told my wife that we had to build a house here and move which we did and then moved back to Wilmington Dec. 1999. I would move back by my lovely wife missed the grandchildren too much so I guess it is only the winter that we will be living here.
Harry Brand <salliesbrand@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, February 18, 2005 at 19:52:34 (EST)
Today I had lunch with one of our fellow posters. Ralph Pryor and I met in Tarpon Springs and spent over an hour going over old times. I am here in Tarpon Springs for the winter. I used to live here for 14 years but now only visit during the winter. I knew of Ralph when he was on the Wilmington PD but never met him. I was a great meeting and lunch and we sure covered a lot of subjects. As it turned out we knew several people down here in Tarpon. Ralph worked in Security at a Golf Resort and I also worked there for 11 years after Ralph. Joann Ralph said to say hello and let you know that the weather here is just perfect. Today was the first of many meetings we will have before I return to Wilmington mid April.
Harry Brand <salliesbrand@aol.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Friday, February 18, 2005 at 14:07:37 (EST)
Away back in the 1940's I worked at Knowles Hobby Shop, first on Market Street at Fourth, and later on Shipley Street at Fourth. On Friday nights I worked until 9 p.m., so my girlfriend, now wife, would take the trolly down town and I would walk her home to 29th and Jefferson. We had no problems, no pan handlers, no drug sellers. I wouldn't do that today on a bet! Wilmington was a great place to live in those days.
Bob Veazey <bobbyvz@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, February 18, 2005 at 10:49:29 (EST)
Larry, The mayor's name was Maloney.
nancy <nflynch>
wilm, de USA - Thursday, February 17, 2005 at 21:38:52 (EST)
I think I may be to blame for all the gripes about the current state of Market Street. In the late 1960s I attempted to run for Mayor of Wilmington. As part of my statement of candidacy I advocated the closing of Market Street to traffic. This was an effort to draw the shoppers that had abandoned downtown in favor of the new malls and shopping centers. My application of candidacy was rejected. It seems that being only 19 years old and serving in Vietnam made me ineligible. In the early 1970s I returned to Wilmington to discover that the new mayor (Mulrooney, I believe) had promoted "my" idea, got elected and turned Market Street in a pedestrian thoroughfare. At the time everybody seemed to think it was a great idea. Now, everybody's sentimental for the old style Market Street. I expect that in a few decades Market Street will undergo yet another metamorphosis in order to enter the Segway Age.
Larry Roszkowiak (Rush) <lroszkowiak@its.ucsf.edu>
San Francisco, CA USA - Thursday, February 17, 2005 at 12:32:36 (EST)
Thanks to all of you great guys who provided info on "Lehmann's Frozen Custard" on Govenor Printz Blvd (in the 1960's). I will have to visit Dorney Park just to get some frozen custard!!! Thanks again.
Robin <raldru@msn.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, February 16, 2005 at 18:15:19 (EST)
Glad to see that people read my message - thanks! that makes me feel good!!! As for Friday nights - talking about the lights - how about the Christmas decorations on the street lamps down Market Street?? Weren't they the best!!! As far as you could see down Market - toward Front Street - they were all the same!!! And the decorations in the Hotel DuPont - still are pretty. I am writing this message and forgetting the names of the women who wrote responding to my message - but the lady in Italy - yes, that must be really neat - the ambience of nighttime in a city - and a SAFE city - very cool.
Ellen Leonzio <ellenleonzio@yahoo.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, February 16, 2005 at 14:33:21 (EST)
I used to love downtown Wilmington at nighttime. We'd ride the trolley to the closest corner then walk the length of town. The light shining from the stores was magical to a child. I especially loved a rainy evening when the traffic lights reflected onto the street and the sound of cars driving by made that gentle sound slow moving tires make on a wet street.
Connie <nospamwantedatyahoo.com>
USA - Wednesday, February 16, 2005 at 10:17:13 (EST)
Shoppers Parking. WOW, that little bit of Wilmington nostalgia really jogged my memory. Friday nights on Market Street. Actually, the way it used to be back then is exactly how it has always been here in Italy. When I first moved over here, I wondered why there were so many people outside after dark. But then I became enchanted by shopping outside after the sun went down (even in Winter)and I was happy that I got to be reintroduced to the ambiance of the NIGHT. When you're cooped up in your house or your car or the Mall after Sundown, you don't even realize that you are missing out on the second part of your day.
Carol Merlini <caroljane.merlini@aliceposta.it>
Pescara, Abruzzo, Italy - Wednesday, February 16, 2005 at 04:49:54 (EST)
Mike,if you were afriend of Brian Dougherty you probably know Brian Lucey I think he hung around with him, he grew up in the forty acres
Jean <usa>
USA - Wednesday, February 16, 2005 at 02:01:06 (EST)
What would everyone think about having a photo section on the website containing recent pictures of the people who communicate in the guest book? (Strictly voluntary, of course...) Harry might reserve some webspace for our mug shots, and it would be very interesting to see who we're talking to in the guestbook and/or bulletin board! Just attach a photo to an e-mail addressed to Harry, and include the city and state where you live now... Any thoughts pro or con on the idea?
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Tuesday, February 15, 2005 at 19:20:33 (EST)
Joe is an attorney in Tampa, Fl. I lived in that area for 14 years and saw him on several occasions. We used to have a Mini reuion here in Tampa. Fr. Kenny would come down and we would all meet for a long luncheon and talk about old times.Joe was handling some high profile cases here in this area.
Harry Brand <salliesbrand@aol.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Tuesday, February 15, 2005 at 17:19:08 (EST)
I haven't accessed this website in a long while and it sure looks good - lots of new things. About 2 years ago when I first discovered it, I printed out the messages to show my mother - who is a native Wilmingtonian - she is now 82 and went to PSDuPont H.S. living on 30th & Washington Sts. and those earlier messages sure listed lots of places she remembers. I was raised in the 'burbs but enjoyed reading about everyone living in the city and how much excitement there was - my dad lived out on Concord Pike (Fairfax) but he spent much of his social life in the city - he would have enjoyed reading these memories. My e-mail is a work e-mail - no computer at home - so if anyone writes back - be patient, I"ll try to answer when I can. I went to William Penn H.S. - the "old" Penn and graduated in 1966. We always spent Friday nights downtown Market Street shopping - Shopper's Parking - that's where the court house is now - lots of good memories - and yes, it is a pleasure to be a native Delawarean - my daughters were born in DE but for 10 years we lived in L'burg but came "home" in 1986 and they graduated from Padua. I wouldn't leave this state for anything - even in their lives they have seen the 'burbs change so much - all the roads to their grandparents have sure changed over the years. Gotta run - hope to talk to some of you in the near future. Good job with the website. Peace.
Ellen Evans Leonzio <ellenleonzio@yahoo.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Tuesday, February 15, 2005 at 16:37:42 (EST)
Carol I think you are right about the Joe ? being Joe Episcopo. Joe graduated from Salesianum in '67. ( I was his classmate and played football with him there ) Joe went to Fordham Univ. in New York I believe . I think he is an Attorney living in Florida now. Did you have relatives that went to Salesianum? I seem to remember the name Merlini
Stephen Armstrong <stephen.armstrong@sun.com>
Bowie , Md. USA - Tuesday, February 15, 2005 at 12:55:22 (EST)
When I had a chest cold my mother would make a 'bag' out of cotton cloth and fill it with super-greasy fried onions. Then she'd tape it onto my chest. I hated that grease on my body. Unfortunately, it seemed to help eliminate the symptons.
Connie <nospamwantedatyahoo.com>
USA - Tuesday, February 15, 2005 at 09:21:41 (EST)
MUSTARD PLASTERS! Heaven help us. That, and a spoonful of goose grease (gag) was the cure-all for most childhood ailments in my family! My Mother was 42 and my Granny was 75 yrs old when I was born. They only believed in calling a Doctor to sign the death-certificate! After days of these home remedies; one year I wound up in the hospital for 5-weeks with pneumonia in both lungs. Not a pleasant experience when you're 7 yrs old. After that, I'd fake a seizure whenever "mustard plaster or goose grease" were even mentioned. I swore that was what gave me the pneumonia. Of course, it didn't but it kept my Mother wondering about the medicial merits of mustard plasters for years.
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Monday, February 14, 2005 at 19:55:54 (EST)
My father, also, chose Monkey Hill as the place teach our 4'11" mother how to drive the stick shift on our '47 Plymouth. Heck of a day.
Larry Roszkowiak (Rush) <lroszkowiak@its.ucsf.edu>
San Francisco,, CA USA - Monday, February 14, 2005 at 19:53:34 (EST)
I think I only had one mustard plaster as a kid, and I was terrified that when my mom took in off that my skin would peel off with it... that was the hottest thing I ever felt! It was fine for about 10 minutes, then got hotter and hotter and hotter... the treatment seemed worse than the disease. Does anyone know how effective they were, medically speaking?
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Monday, February 14, 2005 at 17:17:12 (EST)
Well, for the more then 5 years that I have been running this site - no one has mentioned this from the 40's and 50's..... Mustard Plasters -- 1 part powdered mustard with 4 parts flour - mixed with warm water to form a paste, spread on a cloth and placed on the chest.__Any stories out there about this??
Harry Rogerson <webmaster@oldwilmington.net>
Perryville, MD USA - Monday, February 14, 2005 at 16:21:17 (EST)
I remember Lou Dougherty's RCA store. His son Brian was a friend of mine.
Mike Snyder <kmsins@msn.com>
newark, Ct USA - Monday, February 14, 2005 at 14:45:26 (EST)
PAT: I thought it was gonna be those two ugly monkeys! Remember when we'd offer them some food (veggies) they'd snatch it and try and grab our hand? I'v never liked that type of monkey ever since. I've learned it's the giant gorilla that is the most gentle of all. Oh, and welcome home from the Sunshine State, K. Burton. We've done so much here while you were gone. And we have a few new faces :o)
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike CreekValley, DE USA - Monday, February 14, 2005 at 09:53:16 (EST)
Katie and Jerry were the two monkeys in the same cage in the Monkey House at the zoo. They were ornery little critters. We kids used to stand in front of their cage and make faces at them and they would go crazy leaping around the cage and jumping against it.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Monday, February 14, 2005 at 08:37:57 (EST)
My grandparents owned Marros Italian Restruant at 1709 Delaware Ave in the Forty Acres. Remember Lou Doughertys RCA store?
Sandra Smyk <blessthecook@juno.com>
millsboro, de USA - Sunday, February 13, 2005 at 21:22:20 (EST)
OOPS?? Somehow my post to Pat disappeared after it was here, Uhmm? Anyway, Pat, who were Katie and Jerry at the Brandywind Zoo? And, if wants to discuss my comments about Howard Hughes and the C-5s at DAFB, just email me until we get a chat room.
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Sunday, February 13, 2005 at 20:38:13 (EST)
Re: the zoo -- don't forget Gladly the Crossed-Eyed bear.
Joe Mosbrook <joe.mosbrook@multiverse.com>
Cleveland, OH USA - Sunday, February 13, 2005 at 20:25:14 (EST)
PAT: So, tell us! Who were Katie and Jerry? And what was their claim to fame?
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Sunday, February 13, 2005 at 20:11:39 (EST)
MY GYM TEACHER AT LORE ELEMENTARY BACK IN THE LATE 40,S WAS MISS HAMBY, A REAL NICE PERSON. WHEN I ENTERED WARNER JR. HIGH SHE CAME ALONG ALSO , BUT TO BE IN CHARGE OF THE GIRLS. WHEN I LEFT WARNER FOR HIGH SCHOOL , OLD FAITHFUL MISS HAMBY WAS RIGHT THERE AND OF COURSE IN CHARGE OF THE GIRLS . . .WHEN THE NEW WILM. HIGH OPENED IT DOORS MISS HAMBY WAS THERE.I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW . IF SHE IS STILL IN THE WILMINGTON AREA. AND IF SHE IS IN GOOD HEALTH. AS I STATED, SHE IS A REAL NICE LADY. SO PLEASE SOME BODY LET ME KNOW.
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK>
TARPON SPRINGS, FL USA - Sunday, February 13, 2005 at 16:58:43 (EST)
Dale Hall - Didn't you live next door or close by to my aunt and uncle, Ray and Marion Bloodwell on Vandever Avenue? You had a sister who was friends with my cousin, Selma. You attended the same schools as I did and the same years. I had Ms. Goodman for my kindergarten teacher. Dale I remember you in some of my classes at P.S. Remember Ms. Gill? You know we just had our 40th class reunion -- don't remember seeing you there. You should come to the next one. Was your mother's name Alethia or something similar? As I write memories just start to flow.
diane thomas <dianew19809@aol.com>
wilmington, de USA - Sunday, February 13, 2005 at 15:02:30 (EST)
Any of you remember an organization called the Lucians that was pretty active during the '50-60s. They would meet every Thursday evening in the basement of St. Paul's Church on Fourth street. Although it had some religous backing/front, the purpose of each meeting was purely social as there was always beer and music that followed each brief meeting. They also organized a few trips, one of which was to the Pocono's where I was introduced to basic skiing. Ahh, those were the days!
Mario <melepera@aol.com>
Harrisonburg, VA USA - Sunday, February 13, 2005 at 14:33:18 (EST)
One of the brown bears at the zoo was Igloo (which passed away in the mid 70s). He's buried at the SPCA in Stanton.
MichaelKlezaras <theklez@hotmail.com>
New Castle, USA - Sunday, February 13, 2005 at 14:30:00 (EST)
Connie, my Dad was bald from the age of 22 but he used to tell everybody that he lost his hair teaching me how to drive a stick shift on Monkey Hill, LOL.
Carol Merlini <caroljane.merlini@aliceposta.it>
Pescara, Abruzzo, Italy - Sunday, February 13, 2005 at 13:52:27 (EST)
Joe Episcopo? Is this the Joe Episcopo who used to date my sister, Robin and had a first cousin (I forget her first name) who lived near Canby Park and went to St. Elizabeth's?
Carol Merlini <caroljane.merlini@aliceposta.it>
Pescara, Abruzzo, Italy - Sunday, February 13, 2005 at 13:42:04 (EST)
I think Katie and Jerry were the brown Bears at the Brandywine Zoo.
Carol Merlini <caroljane.merlini@aliceposta.it>
Pescara, Abruzzo, Italy - Sunday, February 13, 2005 at 13:32:36 (EST)
The place where the monkeys were was called "The Monkey House". It was near the bottom of Monkey Hill. There were also birds in there. I remember one green parrot always saying: "Polly, want a cracker". I remember that guard, too; I think his name was Joe.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Sunday, February 13, 2005 at 13:13:56 (EST)
FLY ME TO THE MOON or under the Memorial Bridges! Too bad Howard Hughes never got to see the C-5s flying in and out of Dover Air Force Base. They're truly a sight to behold. They look like they are are flying slower than the cars are moving. And during take-off and landing they're flying so low over Route 13 that I often feel: if I could just reach up a little higher....
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Sunday, February 13, 2005 at 12:15:39 (EST)
BILL: Thanks for the update on the Spruce Goose. I've traveled from sea-to-shinning sea and to many "Far Away Places" with strange sounding names, but recently it's been too long since I've been out of Delaware. Or, maybe I just need to go to the movies more often? (grin)
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Sunday, February 13, 2005 at 12:04:34 (EST)
Jo Ann, Howard Hughes' "Spruce Goose" (which was made of birch, not spruce) only flew one time, at an altitude of 50 to 70 feet and for only a mile or so. He was testing the airplane, and was supposed to be doing only high-speed taxi maneuvers, but pushed the eight throttles forward and lifted it off, to the amazement of nearly everybody around the Long Beach/San Pedro Bay who saw it. The plane was built as a prototype for airplanes to carry troops and supplies to the Pacific, where surface ships were vulnerable to submarine attack. By the time the airplane was finished, so was the war... and Hughes ordered it stored away, but in flight-ready condition. It remained that way in a hangar in Long Beach for years and years, and was finally dismantled and shipped to somewhere in Oregon, where it remains today.
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Sunday, February 13, 2005 at 00:10:16 (EST)
PAT: Weren't they the monkeys...chimps...orangutans...whatever, in the Monkey House? Those monkeys were so nasty / mean! I remember them jumping on the wire cages; shaking them as hard as the could; snarling and screaming at us kids. There was a guard who always stood in the corner and laughed at us.
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE - Saturday, February 12, 2005 at 22:33:53 (EST)
THE AVIATOR: There's a story in todays News Journal regarding the film, "The Aviator", Howard Hughes, The Spruce Goose and the connection to Delaware. However, it doesn't mention that the "Goose" ever touched down in DE? It did, didn't it? Didn't we do a segment on the "Goose" and AAE? To read the News Journal article cut and paste: http://www.delawareonline.com/newsjournal/local/2005/02/12delawareshapedl.html And my comment about Monkey Hill cobblestones should have read: I was at the Brandywine Zoo with my G'son.
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Saturday, February 12, 2005 at 22:17:10 (EST)
OK, all you old Wilmingtonians, does anyone remember Katie and Jerry? Some Wilmington friends visisted us this past week and we broke up remembering Katie and Jerry. This is the $64 question. Now who remembers Katie and Jerry? One clue - the Brandywine Zoo.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Saturday, February 12, 2005 at 21:00:04 (EST)
CONNIE: I was on a school field trip to the Wilmington with my G'son's second grade class this past October. The cobblestones at Monkey Hill were still there. Monkey Hill is some sort of historic land mark now. And they have renovated the Josephine Gardens; the fountain is still there, but most of the large, old trees were taken down and replaced.
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Saturday, February 12, 2005 at 19:49:50 (EST)
My father didn't like us shopping at Wilmington Dry Goods. He said it was a fire trap. That didn't stop us, we went anyway. On sale days girls from work would walk down from 9th street make all these purchases (dresses) and what didn't fit them they would sell to the rest of us who didn't go. I remember buying my kids Dr. Denton's (pjs), Easter coats and hats, and myself nylons, etc. The floor creaked and you could smell roasted peanuts, sauerkraut, etc. Remember the saleslady with blonde hair? She worked up front. The shoemaker, the watchmaker, and the lay-away area. I remember shopping at Christmas with my Mom and sister on Market Street and waiting for the bus to go home -- it was so cold.
Diane Thomas <dianew19809@aol.com>
wilmignton, De USA - Saturday, February 12, 2005 at 17:03:16 (EST)
Connie, how well I remember the cobblestones of Monkey Hill. My Dad borrowed a car from my uncle to teach me how to drive. It had a floor shift and he made me stop in the middle of Monkey Hill both going up and going down. Turn off the ignition and start up again. That was a real chore as my feet were going a mile a minute.
Harry Brand <salliesbrand@aol.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Saturday, February 12, 2005 at 12:41:22 (EST)
I rode the brake the whole way down. It was fairly easy to stop when I reached the bottom. But with the brake on strong it was still an 'unforgettable' ride.
Connie <nospamwantedatyahoo.com>
USA - Saturday, February 12, 2005 at 11:36:35 (EST)
Yes, Connie, I remember riding bikes down the hill at Monkey Hill. The problem was if you didn't get stopped by the time you got to the road, you couldn't stop on the cobblestones, and ended up getting thrown from your bike, or smashing into the curb (or a car)!! The cobblestones were still there the last time I drove up Monkey Hill. I remember, before I took my driving test, I had to be able to stop at the top of Monkey Hill, and start off with no problem (with a stick shift). That was quite an accomplishment when you were able to do that. The motor vehicle tester would always include that on his list when he took you out for your driving test.
Bruce <spyderxlatcomcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Saturday, February 12, 2005 at 11:17:56 (EST)
Re MONKEY HILL - How many of you rode your bike down the grassy part of Monkey Hill? It was the unspoken dare when I was a kid. I did it once and never did it again. I also remember one time we were at the pavillion at the bottom of that hill and we thought we heard bagpipes. We climbed the grassy hill to the top and there were all these guys in kilts playing away on their pipes. They said they came there to practice so they wouldn't disturb anyone. We loved to hear them. I also remember trying to ride my bicycle up the cobblestones at Monkey hill. I wonder if the cobblestones are still there.
Connie <nospamwantedatyahoo.com>
USA - Saturday, February 12, 2005 at 10:22:58 (EST)
Glad I found this site. Just a kid when places like The Dry Goods was the Wilmington Walmart but I remember it well. From fishing on the Brandywine, to sledding on Monkey Hill, hanging out in the Fourty Acres, to partying in the Valley I don't think anyone anywhere can have memories that compare
Joe Episcopo <joey@southbeachfilms.com>
Los Angeles, Ca USA - Saturday, February 12, 2005 at 00:56:07 (EST)
My friend, Jean, hit all the sales at Dry Goods. She always arrived early and waited outside with the crowd until the doors opened. Then she would put her handbag over her left shoulder making sure it was tucked up close under the armpit and with her right arm pushed straight out in front of her with the hand bent back and straight up, she would barrell her way in to get the best deals. Once inside, she was like a wild woman flying around Dry Goods in her London Fog trenchcoat, LOL.
Carol Merlini <caroljane.merlini@aliceposta.it>
Pescara, Abruzzo, Italy - Friday, February 11, 2005 at 17:50:05 (EST)
Pat, I worked at Dupont and remember managers all around the country scheduling themselves back to the "home office in Wilmington" when the big sales were on at the Dry Goods.
Harry Brand <salliesbrand@aol.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Friday, February 11, 2005 at 15:49:16 (EST)
My mother call Wilmingto Dry Goods MBF (Market Below Fifth).
Mike Snyder <kmsins@msn.com>
Newtown, Ct USA - Thursday, February 10, 2005 at 23:01:52 (EST)
Just a thought - the way to bring back Market St. is to bring back Wilmington Dry Goods! No other store brought the crowds downtown as that store did. Seems to me that it was owned by Lazarus which was the predecessor of Federated Department stores which owns Macy's, Burdines', etc. Anyhow, WDG was an original. Anyone remember the $7.00 Easter suits, 4th of July sales ($7.00 bathing suits (Jantzen, Catalina, etc.)?
Pat (Stillwell) LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Thursday, February 10, 2005 at 21:14:39 (EST)
To supplement some of the information concerning pilots in the area, my cousins, Bob and Lee Casey, were both fighter pilots in WW11 and Korea. Their cousin, Bud Banks did the same. The Caseys both survived it all but, unfortunately, Bud Banks was shot down in Europe. Citizens in ( I believe) Czechoslovokia came to his assistance but it was learned that the Nazis later captured and tortured him to death. Following the war, the Czechs built a small monument in his memory! My grandmother used to take me on a bus from Fourth and Franklin up to the "Casey Castle" in Claymont. The big, old family home was once buzzed by Bob Casey in a jet...to the chagrin of the seniors in the family and the joy of the kids. "Almost flew into a tall ginko tree in the yard", he laughed in later telling the tale. The rest of the story: I bought the house in 1969 and happily still live there; a displaced Wilmingtonian today.
jim rambo <jrambo@state.de.us>
USA - Thursday, February 10, 2005 at 16:55:06 (EST)
Anyone who wants to see a live picture of Riverview just tune into 'American Dreams' on Sunday nights at 8. During the opening credits they show scenes of American Bandstand and a picture of a silver spacehip ride going round & round. I know thats from Riverview because that was my favorite ride there. You went up these steps to board the spaceship then it started to move and the ship was held by chains which swung you out over the crowds below. A great ride for a little kid!
Joe <sgtpepper212@aol.com>
USA - Thursday, February 10, 2005 at 16:06:37 (EST)
Ahhh, yes, Harry- those were the "good ol' days" of dentistry!!
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Thursday, February 10, 2005 at 12:48:18 (EST)
Bill Fisher I lived up the street from Dr. Shames and as a youngster my Mom took me to him to have a tooth pulled. He did not give you anything and when I jumped in the chair he hollered at me and shoved me back down. I told my Dad about it and he was going to go down and punch him in the mouth but my Mom kept him from doing so. Dr. Bellanca was not that much better. Dr. Shames lived in a nice home at Matson Run Parkway and Lea Blvd.
Harry Brand <salliesbrand@aol.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Thursday, February 10, 2005 at 09:48:27 (EST)
Don’t get your hopes up too high! I was there just yesterday and, yes it is back to two-way traffic but, in portions of each block, the sidewalk extends out beyond what it use to be – especially in front of the Grand and there is no way a bus can travel Market Street – even two-way is tight. I think what they plan on doing is to have the new ‘rubber-wheeled trolley car’ run that route – maybe Richard Burton can fill us in when he reads this. I took some photos of the construction last Fall which I’ll post along with some of the completed street. Plans also call for a new office complex where Dry Goods use to be!
Harry Rogerson <webmaster@oldwilmington.net>
Perryville, MD USA - Thursday, February 10, 2005 at 05:42:47 (EST)
Bruce, yes the Sunrise Bakery in Edgemoor was owned by the same family. They moved from Vandever Avenue & Thatcher to Edgemoor, not sure just when.
Shirley Hudson Jester <ujest110@aol.com>
Newark, DE USA - Wednesday, February 09, 2005 at 23:27:15 (EST)
I was HOPING the Market St. Mall wouldn't last... it just didn't seem like Wilmington without the hustle-bustle of traffic along the "main drag" downtown. Is the plan for traffic all the way through, like it used to be? Is there a planned completion date?
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Wednesday, February 09, 2005 at 19:57:22 (EST)
THE MARKET STREET MALL, I JUST KNEW IT WOULD NOT LAST.
DAVE CAUFFMAN <CAUFFMANDS@AOL.COM>
HOCKESSIN, DE USA - Wednesday, February 09, 2005 at 18:42:23 (EST)
MARKET STREET MALL: This appeared in a January '04 edition of the News Journal - CITY TRAFFIC Market Street goes back to being main downtown crossroad Some will lament the passing of the old Market Street Mall while others, including us, will not. The pedestrian mall has outlived its usefulness as a downtown attraction. Most of the mall, which was once closed to cars from Fourth to 10th Street, already has been converted to one-way auto traffic and parking. The final two blocks will be converted in the spring. When the project is done, Market Street will have two-way traffic will be restored in Spring. Crews will begin converting the last blocks of Wilmington's Market Street pedestrian mall to a two-way street in the spring, ending a decades-long experiment in city revitalization. Working under a nearly $2 million Department of Transportation contract, Daisy Construction Co. will build the new street between Seventh and Ninth streets. The project includes installation of new parallel parking.
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Wednesday, February 09, 2005 at 17:39:30 (EST)
I HEAR THEY DID AWAY WITH THE MARKET ST. MALL . I WAS GLAD TO HEAR THIS . THAT MALL AT NIGHT WAS A MEETING PLACE FOR EVERY BUM IN TOWN!WINE AND OTHER BOOZE BOTTLES DUMPED IN THE PLANTERS , AND A GOOD AREA FOR A MUGGING. NOW MAYBE THOSE BUSINESS IN SAID AREA WILL DO A LOT BETTER .JUST WONDER HOW MUCH IT COST THE TAX PAYERS TO BUILD THE MALL AND HOW MUCH TO RESTORE THE AREA? BY THE WAY , DOES ANY ONE KNOW WHEN THEY DECIDED TO TEAR IT DOWN?
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK>
TARPON SPRINGS, FL USA - Wednesday, February 09, 2005 at 16:21:06 (EST)
Re: Lehmans - Actually at the NE corner of Lore Ave. & Gov, Printz intersection. I have yet to find a comparable frozen custard, I'll have to try the stand at Dorney Park next time I'm up that way. I don't know the person, but know where the recipe is that Lehman's used; doubt if anyone could make a living selling just custard anymore. Does anyone have an ad from Lehman's? I still believe it was spelled differently than L-e-h-m-a-n-'s (an extra "n" or "h", or something. Remember the little minature golf place next to it? Someone else has mentioned Sunrise Bakery, there used to be a Sunrise Bakery at Edgemoor for years, on the Printz North of the Edgemoor Theater (Spinning Wheel Tavern was in that building later on) in the 50's and 60's, wonder if it was owned by the same people?
Bruce <spyderxlatcomcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Wednesday, February 09, 2005 at 09:56:32 (EST)
Robin::__Lehman’s was a Frozen Custard located on the track side of Gov. Printz Blvd. near Lore Avenue.__It gave way to the realignment of Gov. Printz and the construction of the interstate.__I don’t know of any ‘frozen custard’ sold by anyone in this area let alone coming close to Lehman’s.__Everyone now sells what I call “Chemical Ice Cream”.__I have had VERY SIMILAR custard though, at the Frozen Custard Stand located in Dorney Park off of the N.E. Extension of the PA Turnpike.__AstraZeneca’s Employees Picnic has been going there for the past several years and I always make sure I get a large Frozen Custard – it reminds me of Lehman’s!!
Harry Rogerson <webmaster@oldwilmington.net>
Perryville, MD USA - Wednesday, February 09, 2005 at 04:03:13 (EST)
TO DALE HALL: I GREW UP IN THE 600 BLOCK OF VANDEVER AVENUE. SAME SCHOOLS, BUT BEFORE YOU. 30'S 40'S AND MOVED FROM THERE IN '54. PS CLASS OF 51. REMEMBER ALL THOSE PLACES. SUNRISE BAKERY AT VANDEVER AVENUE AND THATCHER OWNED BY THE CHUDNOFSKY FAMILY. MY OLDEST BROTHER, JACK HUDSON, WAS THE FIRST BOY TO JOIN BROWN'S BOYS CLUB. MR. XANDER WAS THE DIRECTOR OF THE BOYS CLUB WHEN IT OPENED. SPENT MANY WONDERFUL SUMMERS IN PRICE'S RUN POOL AND PARK.
SHIRLEY HUDSON JESTER <UJEST110@AOL.COM>
NEWARK, DE USA - Tuesday, February 08, 2005 at 22:35:07 (EST)
Does anyone know what happened to Lehman's Ice Cream place on Governor Printz Blvd. during the 1960's? Is there a comparable place for ice cream? That was the best ice cream I've ever tasted and I've been unable to find anything even close to it. Such memories!
Robin <raldru@msn.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Tuesday, February 08, 2005 at 16:44:20 (EST)
AGAIN I SAY, ITS GREAT BEING ON LINE AND ALSO TO CHAT WITH ALL MY OLD AND NEW FRIENDS.IN REGARDS TO JOE PYNE FLYING UNDER THE DEL. MEMORIAL BRIDGE. AS JO ANN STATED. JOE AND I GO WAY BACK . JOE HAS BEEN ACCUSED OF MANY THINGS, SOME HE IS GUILTY OF, BUT JOE PYNE WOULD NEVER BE CRAZY ENOUGH TO FLY UNDER THAT OR ANY OTHER BRIDGE. HE DID NOT DO IT. THE RUMOR HAS BEEN HANGING AROUND FOR MANY YEARS.===RALPH
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK>
TARPON SPRINGS, FL USA - Tuesday, February 08, 2005 at 15:43:18 (EST)
In 1966, I went to Dr. Leonard Strauss, a Podiatrist at 17th & Washington, for an ingrown toenail problem. His waiting room was packed and EVERY patient was wearing a surgical shoe. His nurse rushed over and shoved a Xeroxed article into my hand and said, "Read this". It was a story about Dr. Strauss in the New England Journal of Medicine. Dr. Strauss charged my insurance company $750 to remove one ingrown toenail. I thought this was outrageous for 1966. But to my horror, when the anesthetic wore off and the bandage came off, I discovered that Dr. Strauss had removed a section of nail from the wrong side of my toe. So I, in fact, still had the ingrown toenail that my insurance company paid him $750 to remove. When I called Dr. Strauss at home to inform him of his malpractice, he said, "How dare you call the Doctor at home on a Saturday". Some years later, I heard Dr. Strauss lost his license to practice in Delaware but that he had put a shingle out in Kennett Square. So, not all the doctors in Delaware were worthy of praise, that's for sure.
~~~~~ ~~~~ ~~~~~~~ <novablu188@yahoo.com>
Pescara, Abruzzo, Italy - Tuesday, February 08, 2005 at 15:01:26 (EST)
Harry Brand: Yes, I remember Dr. Shames' office at the corner of 28th and Washington, and I was a patient of Dr. Leonard Bellanca, whose office was right on the southwest corner of 22nd and Washington St. He didn't believe in novocain, and he practiced before the high-speed air turbine drills came out, so I suffered through the old belt-driven drill with no anesthetic... OWWWW!!!
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Tuesday, February 08, 2005 at 12:39:30 (EST)
That was Larry RANKIN, not Larkin! Sorry.
Dale Hall <dalcin0124@aol.com>
new castle, de USA - Tuesday, February 08, 2005 at 11:14:20 (EST)
Grew up in the 800 block of Vandever Ave in 50's and 60's. George Gray, Warner JHS, PS duPont HS '64. I hope the WebMaster can add the following to the interesting sites list: The corner "hangout" was Bobby Levine's, a pharmacy/soda shop at Vandever and Church. Bobby's father, Morris, owned Levine's market, a grocery store on the opposite corner. There was Kagel's Hardware store at Vandever Ave and Locust St. before it moved to the Gov. Printz. I believe it was "Garyantes" liquor store that was across the street. I recall a bakery at the intersection of Vandever and Thatcher but cannot recall the name. There was also a Dairy Queen at the same location. The Brown Boys Club, at 17th & Church (Larry Larkin and Frank Castaldi)helped me stay out of trouble. Thanks.
Dale Hall <dalcin0124@aol.com>
new castle, de USA - Tuesday, February 08, 2005 at 11:12:36 (EST)
I remember Jake the Broom Man very well. He was also very mean to the kids around my neighborhood. Does anyone remember Dr. Shames the dentist at 28th and Washington St. and Dr. Bellanca also on Washington St. around 22nd I believe.
Harry Brand <salliesbrand@aol.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Tuesday, February 08, 2005 at 10:00:59 (EST)
To all of you out-of-towners - go to the Wilmington News Journal website (delawareonline.com)and read 'local' news. "Gov. Elbert N. Carvel dies at 94"
Connie <nospamwantedatyahoo.com>
USA - Tuesday, February 08, 2005 at 09:34:30 (EST)
The info on old airports is great. Ref. DuPont Airport, Mike Guididas claims to have made the last flight from DuPont Airport in 1958, but we at AAE continued to fly off the field through at least 1960. Mike was an Atlantic Aviation official, and that was when AA moved out. In fact, we modified CH-3 helicopters used to recover spy drones in mid-air in Viet Nam (and "other" places)in 1964 and they were flown to and from the field. For Joe Mosbrook, a variation of the air mail pickup technique was used to recover film capsules from spy satellites using C-119 and C-130 aircraft from 1961 through 1986. This is the same basic system we put together for recovery of the Genesis capsule. My Wife and I were at Dugway near Salt Lake City when the capsule crashed into the desert. ( The parachutes failed to deploy) Happy to report that NASA is getting data from the capsule, so all was not lost.
Bob Veazey <bobbyvz@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Tuesday, February 08, 2005 at 09:16:24 (EST)
I AM BACK IN THE SADDLE AGAIN, NO ITS NOT GENE AUTRY, ITS YOUR OL BUDDY RALPH PRYOR . THAT TROGAN HORSE GAVE ME A LOT OF TROUBLE, BUT THANKS TO MY FAMILY , THERE BRAINS NOT MINE. THE DAMM VIRUS IS DEAD AND BURIED. THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR CONSERN, AND ASKING FOR ME. . AS OF NOW I AM USING McAFEE ANTI VIRUS. ITS FREE WITH AOL. BUT AGAIN , ITS NICE TO KNOW PEOPLE CARE.. FRIEND RALPH
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK>
TARPON SPRINGS, FL USA - Monday, February 07, 2005 at 17:54:44 (EST)
Re: OLD AIRPORTS -- I can remember, as a small child, going to air races at the Bellanca Field and, when I was a little older, all sorts of events at the Duport Airport -- because we lived nearby in Westhaven. I remember watching the testing of air mail pick-up by a plane with a hook flying between two poles and the same technique used to pick-up military gliders. One time, one of the gliders crashed on our baseball field on Greenwood Road. I also remember the time an Air Force P-38 overshot the runway and crashed thru the fence onto Center Road. And the time a small private plane crashed in the backyard of a Westhaven home. I also remember a blimp or dirigible landing (or docking) at DuPont Airport, with a tall mast and lots of guys hanging onto lines to keep the big ship from drifting away. During WWII there were all sorts of interesting things going on at the DuPont Airport.
Joe Mosbrook <joe.mosbrook@multiverse.com>
Cleveland, OH - Monday, February 07, 2005 at 15:28:30 (EST)
Harry Very interesting article and entries about the Old duPonr airport log book. Wasn't the tower operated by CAA personnel at that time ? One of the tower operators was Bill Livergood who went into the Army Air Force during WW2 and flew missions in the P-47. Bill later was one of the first members of the newly formed Delaware (Air) National Guard after WW2 flying the P-47N for the Guard. Sadly he was killed in a crash of his plane landing at Wilmington (New Castle)airport in May of 1947.
Bud <bu49@poolesite.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Monday, February 07, 2005 at 08:02:34 (EST)
Bob Veazey::__You might be interested to know that I have two Log Books from the Old DuPont Airport - they cover the early '40's. One was for transmitter WDUP and the other was for Transmitter WHDP.__The operators listed are: Warren Morris, Robert Reigle, Lloyd Bruce, Hugh Casey and Stanley Halliday.__In 1944, there are some women listed as operators because the guys were drafted (or enlisted) into the military.__The books list the date, time, operator, frequency and the CTC No.__At one time I had some pics posted of a few pages - I'll repost them...
Harry Rogerson <webmaster@oldwilmington.net>
Perryville, MD USA - Sunday, February 06, 2005 at 11:23:14 (EST)
BOBBY V. Those of us 'oldies' who grew up in DE, all knew the names of Kippy and HB. However, until today, I never knew HB had anything but initials...lol. You ran with some pretty famous home-town boys, Bobby. And, I can recall seeing Jan Churchill's picture on the wall of Air Transport Command, restaurant - of course that being the least of her fame. Am I the only one who finds it exciting when we find links on here to local people? Hey! Does anyone know if Joe Pyne really did fly UNDER the Memorial bridges? And who was the barnstormer who did that stunt? Ralph Pryor might know that one, he and Joe went way back.
Jo Ann <Crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Saturday, February 05, 2005 at 23:40:46 (EST)
Thank you Bill and Jo Ann for the kind words. There are 31 other Delaware aviators who have been honored by the Delaware Aviation Hall of Fame. Their contributions are listed on the DAHF web site.(set your browser to: dahf)As for DuPont Airport, that was the home of All American Engineering Company. When I started there in 1955 a lot of employees were pilots. Many flew themslves to work at our Georgetown DE Test Base. I actually logged more hours my first year at AAE than I did my last year in the Air Force!
Bob Veazey <bobbyvz@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Saturday, February 05, 2005 at 16:51:33 (EST)
If memory serves me right did'nt Joe Pyne also fly under the Del Memorial bridge too.
Mike Snyder <kmsins@msn.com>
Newtown, Ct USA - Friday, February 04, 2005 at 22:40:53 (EST)
I am the son of Doctor Lotz, now living in New Port Richey FL. MY fsather was a doctor in Wilmington for over 59 years.His office was in the medical arts building on DElaware Ave.He was the anestesthesias at the old memorial hospital There is now condos ther now. I wanted to be a pilot. since I grew up next to the Du Pont airport.I did get inti the Ar Force in the 1950's spent 3 years there, and then went to work of American Airlines.I had to take a medicl retirment in the 1970'sBecause I lived on long Island, made alot of money when I sold out, and moved to FL.WAs back in Wilmington last year, could not believe the changes.
A. King Lotz JR. <Contrail02@aol.com>
NEw Port Richey, FL. USA - Friday, February 04, 2005 at 19:39:50 (EST)
Oh Boy! I bet Steve Smyk, Delaware State Police (Retired) and current employee of US Coast Guard downstate is falling off his chair if he's reading these posts about flying a plane under the Delaware Memorial Bridge, LOL. Those days are REALLY gone.
Carol Merlini <caroljane.merlini@aliceposta.it>
Pescara, Abruzzo, Italy - Friday, February 04, 2005 at 15:15:39 (EST)
HITCHHIKING and STUNTS: You're so right about "no-way-today!" One of my brothers was co-owner of a Piper Cub when I was a kid. He took me up and we 'buzzed' our neighborhood. We were so close to the backyard that I could see my Mother shaking her fist at him! heehee. Wow! Flying UNDER the Memorial Bridge must have been a thrill! Even with all the crazy things we did, kids today are so less safe than we were...sigh.
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Friday, February 04, 2005 at 12:18:50 (EST)
Speaking of aviators in Delaware, I remember that as a teenager we used to hitch hike to the old Airport at Lancaster Avenue and Centerville Rds. We would wash airplanes for the owners and they would give us "rides" on the planes. That wouldn't happen today for liability reasons, I'm sure. I specifically remember a man whose name was James Bukle (Bukel?) who once flew us UNDER the Delaware Memorial Bridge! That wouldn't happen today either. Anyone out there know Mr. Bukel?? This is why we call them "the good old days".
jim rambo <jrambo@state.de.us>
USA - Friday, February 04, 2005 at 10:57:54 (EST)
Just a comment.. If you update the fruit and feg. mkts You should add; Ciroalo & Vassallo. 111,113 & 115 E. 4th St. They were the original owners 1928 - 1948 prior to F. Vassallo.
Sam Ciroalo <samciroalo@comcast.net>
Bonita Springs, FL USA - Thursday, February 03, 2005 at 23:14:50 (EST)
WAYNE I REMEMBER WE HAD TO CUT BOTH ENDS OUT OF THE CANS THEN PUT THEM INSIDE OF THE CAN AND SMASH IT FLAT. THAT WAS MY JOB.IF THEY HAD PAPER LABELS ON THEM WE HAD TO TAKE THEM OFF.NEWS PAPERS HAD TO BE TIED IN BUNDLES WITH STRING.ALL OF THIS WAS OUR PART TO HELP WIN THE WAR.
DAVE CAUFFMAN <CAUFFMANDS@AOL.COM>
HOCKESSIN, DE USA - Thursday, February 03, 2005 at 18:51:36 (EST)
In your dentist list, please add Dr. Staats. He was the cause of much pain from6 the time I was three (yes cavities in my baby teeth) until he retired when I was an adult. He was on the sixth floor of the Medical Arts Building. I believe his first name was Ralph. When he retired my family went to Dr. Selvaggi whose father worked at Delaware Coach Company cleaning buses according to my father, Butch Leikel, who worked there from about 1950 until 1970 or so. My dad also owned two service stations, one with a man names Wilmer Brown (Brown and Leikel) that was downtown somewhere and the second with Herb Garrett (Garrett & Leikel) which was about 8th and Shipley Sts.
Betsy Gaunt <BetsyGaunt@aol.com>
Taylors, SC USA - Thursday, February 03, 2005 at 18:42:45 (EST)
BILL: And a fine whistle it was, too! Bob, you make us proud! The many of us who stayed here, leading quiet lives, and raising our kids in Delaware, have mostly done so happily and probably wouldn't change anything. However, I'd like to think I speak for one-and-all when I say: We look with pride on the neighborhood kids who did go out there and made it big in the wide-wide-world. And when they come home to us; isn't it a Wonderful Trip?
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Wednesday, February 02, 2005 at 22:25:42 (EST)
Well, as far as "famous" Delawareans go, I have to blow the whistle on our fellow poster Bob Veazey, who was recently inducted into the Delaware Aviation Hall of Fame. He's an ex-jet jockey with a whopping SEVENTY-TWO missions flown in Korea. He also worked with NASA on the recent attempt to recover a package during re-entry from space, in mid-air. More importantly, he's a fraternity brother of mine!! (grin)
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Wednesday, February 02, 2005 at 20:25:14 (EST)
And how about that NEW IDEA of recycling and SEPARATING cans and bottles from the garbage. I remember my grandmother telling me (in the 40's) that if a trash man were to cut himself on a can lid or a bottle on garbage collection day we would be fined for putting the wrong stuff out, or mixing cans and bottles with the garbage. They collected cans, bottles, and ashes (yes folks ashes from your coal burning furness) on separate days from garbage days. Now they want to institute that same new and improved idea. Of course they will have to raise our taxes to cover the extra cost. What extra cost? We do all the separating, they still haul the same amount of trash. They are still going to work five days a week, that is unless they've figured out a way to change the calendar and put ten days in a week. Where does the extra cost come in? If they have us separate aluminum they can actually make money. All this for the NEW & IMPROVED IDEA.
Wayne <twntydasys@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, February 02, 2005 at 17:08:53 (EST)
THE BROOM MAN: I remember the broom man well, I think his name was Jake. My Mother always bought our brooms from him. She used two brooms; one for inside and one for outside. Those were the days when "Ladies" swept the front sidewalk everyday and we kids scrubbed the front steps every Saturday morning. And heaven forbid we should use that outside broom in the house!
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Wednesday, February 02, 2005 at 14:07:04 (EST)
DOES ANYONE REMEMBER THE BLIND MAN THAT WOULD WALK AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOODS SELLING BROOMS?
DAVE CAUFFMAN <CAUFFMANDS@AOL.COM>
HOCKESSIN, DE USA - Wednesday, February 02, 2005 at 13:05:04 (EST)
The knife grinders name was Francis DiLena.
Ray Jubb <golfopera@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, February 02, 2005 at 11:33:53 (EST)
RE KNIFE GRINDER:NOW THAT'S SOMEONE THAT I FORGOT ALL ABOUT.I CAN ALMOST SEE THE TRUCK TODAY.WE HAD SOME WONDERFUL SERVICES WAY BACK THEN. NEVER KNEW HIS NAME THOUGH.
K Burton <breckslnkid10@yahoo.com>
Pike Creek, De USA - Wednesday, February 02, 2005 at 11:15:15 (EST)
I don't remember anyone bringing this up recently: remember the man in the panel-type truck who would stop at all of the food stores and sharpen the butcher's knives, etc.? I don't know what his routine was, or his route, but on a regular basis my mother used to gather her knives (and even scissors) and take them to the "knife grinder" to have the edges honed, and he would do them in his truck while we did our food shopping. When we'd come out of the food store, the knives would be ready. Anyone else remember this man?
Bruce <spyderxlatcomcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Wednesday, February 02, 2005 at 10:26:52 (EST)
I just read every post from beginning to the most recent, again. It triggered so many memories. I wouldn't trade them for the world. Growing up in Wilmington, going to George Gray, Warner, P. S. duPont (class of 64), swimming at Prices Run pool, all the mom & pop corner stores, walking home late at night on Vandever Avenue from my grand-parents (Smiths)house on East 22nd St, sunday school at Trinity Church. Thanks everyone for the memories. I'll be back.
Diane Thomas <dianew29809@aol.com>
wilmington, de USA - Tuesday, February 01, 2005 at 20:41:20 (EST)
WAY TO GO SCOT! Welcome! I hope the trip down memory lane was / is a long and pleasant one? Be sure and read all the nostalgia Harry has put together on here, not just our ramblings to each other :o)
Jo Ann <crossan33@aol.com>
Pike Creek Valley, DE USA - Tuesday, February 01, 2005 at 17:40:47 (EST)
I remember Riverview Park in the 1950s. I remember the fish pond. I remember feeding bag after bag of popcorn to boiling schools of bloated carp wriggling madly over each other with their hug lips sucking the air frantically seeking one more fluffy fattening mouthful. Now we have fifty foot whales doing counter rotating backflip summersaults for a herring.
Larry Roszkowiak (Rush) <lroszkowiak@its.ucsf.edu>
San Francisco, CA USA - Tuesday, February 01, 2005 at 11:54:20 (EST)
I just took a ride down memory lane that made me happy and sad at the same time. I've traveled to many places in the world and in the United States but I've always made home here. I've taken a look at the "grass is greener" scenarios and have found that the greenest grass I know is right here.
Scott W. Rees III <cop3001@aol.com>
Bear, DE USA - Tuesday, February 01, 2005 at 10:37:39 (EST)