Visitors Nostalgia & Memories

(Archive #45: September 1, 2007 to September 30, 2007 entries)

More smells that evoke memories. Old Mrs. Monahan's ham and cabbage that wafted through the streets for an entire block and announced what her family was having for supper that day. Someone mentioned the smell from the Race along Brandywine Creek earlier. If I'm not mistaken, the race ran into the water treatment facility and that's the water that we all drank for many years and probably still do. And another sound that comes to my mind: the clanging bells as the barrier lowered when there was going to be a bridge opening on S. Market St.. Do they still do that?
Jingles <JJohnson@aol.com>
New Castle, De USA - Saturday, September 29, 2007 at 15:39:28 (EDT)

You are right on Bill. We all used those chains. Worked our butts off getting them all on only to be stuck behind somebody who didn't have them. Remember that railroad switching yard at Edgemore pretty well to. I worked there. How about the areas around Wilmington which got flooded every time it rained hard. I remember 12th St being flooded so badly that the poor guys who parked in the lot across from Electric Hose and Rubber all lost their cars. They were parked Where Gander Hill Prison is now. I wonder what they would do with the prisoners if that ever happen now. Provide them with rowboats?
Jingles <JJohnson@aol.com>
New Castle, De USA - Saturday, September 29, 2007 at 15:30:17 (EDT)

For anybody interested, I was doing some research on Yarnalls Tavern which shows on an early map of Brandywine Springs Park. There is an amazing account of how that 80 acres of land changed hands way back there. Sold for about three dollars an acre and was thought to have springs that had healing powers. Indians came from as far away as Ohio to drink that water. The web site is http://www.navsource.org/12-97.htm and you have to page down about three or four times to get to the account.
Jingles <JJohnson@aol.com>
New Castle, De USA - Saturday, September 29, 2007 at 15:23:57 (EDT)

How about the sound made by tire chains on a base of packed-down snow on a cold, quiet winter night, with the occasional loose chain clunking against the inside of the fender as the car plodded along slowly in the snow? Maybe the thuds and clanks of freight cars coupling and uncoupling in the freight yards along the Governor Printz Blvd, late at night near Edgemoor? The sound of the horses' hooves as they plodded along pulling the ice wagons on a hot, still summer afternoon?
Bill Fisher <whfisheratearthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Friday, September 28, 2007 at 16:42:24 (EDT)

Milk deliveries, bread deliveries, both a thing of the past. Today we wouldn't hear the clink of glass milk bottles, we'd hear the clud of plastic milk bottles.
c <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, September 28, 2007 at 16:09:01 (EDT)

Geez, enough politics already. Let's have some fun here and reminisce. How about some more sounds of the city. I distinctly remember the sounds of the milk bottles tapping together when the milk man made his door-to-door delivery and picked up the fresh washed empties. Some enterprising young man should get together a delivery route now. Seems like it's more necessary now than ever.
Jingles <JJohnson@aol.com>
New Castle, De USA - Friday, September 28, 2007 at 16:04:26 (EDT)

Bob Veasey's post was excellent and Sen. Biden has sometimes thoughtlessly said hurtful things about our Military Leaders. Would not have happened during WW11. The PBS series has been a real treat and honored the memories of the "fighting Men & Women" of that war. Sadly, too many today don't recognize just exactly what those men & women gave up, so that we may enjoy contributing to Sites such as this Site.
Barb <barb@comcast.net>
Peabody, MA USA - Thursday, September 27, 2007 at 11:51:40 (EDT)

About “THE WAR”! We were a different people in those days. Can you imagine what the whiners would say if food and other rationing were instituted as it was then? We respected our leaders-didn’t call them “liars” when we knew things were not always true-but we shut-up for the greater good of the country. It was well known that Roosevelt had a mistress, but the press didn’t make a big deal about it. Could you imagine some Joe Biden-like character telling General Eisenhower he was wrong about the invasion of France? As I have said before, I was not overly happy that Harry Truman signed my commission in the USAF, but I saluted smartly and did my duty. I think that the great American public have turned into wimps. We accept excuses for bad behavior and there is no sense of personal responsibility. We are ready to sue over a spilled cup of coffee! Woe is us!
Bob Veazey <bobbyvz@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 11:39:23 (EDT)

This is very interesting - Sept 26 "1701 The first survey of the twelve mile circle boundary of northern Delaware was made by Isaac Taylor and Thomas Pierson using New Castle Courthouse's spire as its center." I ASSUME THIS MEANS THE NEW CASTLE COURTHOUSE SPIRE IS WHAT WAS USED TO LAY OUT THAT BOUNDRY LINE?
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 09:38:17 (EDT)

For anyone who's interested in honoring a friend or family member (living or dead) who served in WWII, you can add their name and pertinent info to an individual remembrance at the WWII Memorial Website. Click on "WWII Registry". What a great way to pay tribute to those who served, and especially to those who gave all so we may enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. http://www.wwiimemorial.com/
Bill Fisher <whfisheratearthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Wednesday, September 26, 2007 at 01:17:52 (EDT)

Sept 25 1927 Ursuline Academy, a school for Catholic girls, opened in Wilmington on Pennsylvania Avenue.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Tuesday, September 25, 2007 at 10:14:01 (EDT)

Webmaster: The "plan" is to turn the Brookview area into a commercial zone for shopping and dining. It was to be modeled on the Manyunck development, just outside Philadelphia, which has enjoyed so much success. Last I heard, the "plan" was on hold pending further financing.
jim rambo <rammymex@yahoo.com>
ajijic, jalisco Mexico - Monday, September 24, 2007 at 10:23:00 (EDT)

THIS IS FOR THE WEBMASTER, I LIVE IN CLAYMONT AND THE APARTMENTS YOU ARE REFERRING TO BROOKVIEW ARE ALL GOING TO BE TORN DOWN AND NEW HOMES ARE GOING TO BE BUILT THERE. THEY WILL START AT $200,OOO.OO. CLAYMONT IS TRYING TO GET BUSINESS TO COME IN AND THEY ARE DOING FACE LIFTS TO SOME ON THE PHILADELPHIA PIKE AND CLAYYMONT TORE DOWN ITS FIRE STATION AND IT IS BUILDING A NEW ONE ON THE PHILADELPHIA PIKE. IT IS THE BEST THING IN THE WORLD THAT THEY ARE TEARING DOWN BROOKVIEW. IT WAS INFESTED WITH ROACHES AND RATS AND DRUGS. WE HAVE SOME BEAUTIFUL HOMES HERE AND A LOT OF HISTORY.
Sandy <leelenkie@yahoo.com>
Claymont, dDe USA - Sunday, September 23, 2007 at 23:15:51 (EDT)

Hi, I just received an email from someone who'd viewed my Wilmington, Delaware postcard site. She asked if I had an image of St. Nicholas Catholic Church from 1916 (unfortunately I don't). I discoved that this church had been on South Heald St. before its new building was erected in 1969. I was wondering if anyone knew exactly where on South Heald this old church was situated. Is there any other structure now in its place? Greetings to all Wilmingtonphiles!
Donata Lewandowski Guerra <OldWilmington@nc.rr.com>
Cary , NC USA - Sunday, September 23, 2007 at 18:08:35 (EDT)

You would have to be quite advanced in years to remember Hammer's bakery, think it was at Adams and Chestnut Streets (under the elevated part of I-95 now), but did anyone know any of the Hammer's? The father, Theodore died in 1952, his children were Theodore Jr., Verbena, Lucy and Charles. If so, e-mail me what you know, thanks!
Ernie Mabrey <erniem@critpath.org>
Philadelphia, PA USA - Sunday, September 23, 2007 at 15:28:06 (EDT)

Pat - I lived on the corner of 22nd & Church Sts. from the time I was born until late 1952. George Gray, Warner and P. S. duPont were the schools I attended. Knew the Walmsley's (Nagowski's) on Ashton Street. Knew the Carl's pretty well too. Must have missed knowing you somehow. Did you go to P. S.? What year did you graduate? Barb, $11.00 for a sandwich? Isn't that why they call it Taxachusetts? Can anyone live as inexpensively and as well as we in Delaware, while enjoying a relatively high standard of living?
Phyllis B . <pboyd 52@comcast.net>
Wilm., DE USA - Sunday, September 23, 2007 at 14:40:48 (EDT)

Lundys: It became a tradition in the 60's to order a "platter" with corned beef and pastrami sandwiches cut in wedges, cole slaw & potato salad with pickles, of course, every Christmas eve. We placed it on the dining room table and savored the treat while decorating our tree. The platters were always wrapped in red cellophane and tied with "crinkle" ribbon. Incidenrally, there is an authentic Jewish Deli very near me and I have ordered Corned beef sandwiches several times from them. Excellent. Their spec. dressing comes in a small container, as does their pickles & cole slaw. The Rye Bread is truly wonderful. Price: $ 11.00.
Barb <Barb@comcast.net>
Peabody, MA USA - Sunday, September 23, 2007 at 11:36:05 (EDT)

For a picture of 4th and Union in the 1930s and 1940s, copy and paste this site http://www.delawareonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070923/BUSINESS/709230314/1003
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, September 23, 2007 at 11:26:59 (EDT)

I went to Lundy's in 1981 but it was gone by 1985.
Art <artajjas@yahoo.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, September 23, 2007 at 10:20:34 (EDT)

Phyllis, I did not know a Lynn Duncan. Yes, the Carls moved to Delair I think sometime in the late 40's or early 50's. Where did you live and what years?
Pat LeVan <levan1706@bellsouth.net>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Sunday, September 23, 2007 at 09:57:28 (EDT)

Phyllis - that was JACK LUNDY'S. I know Lundy's was there in 1968 and 1973. Don't know about before and after.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Saturday, September 22, 2007 at 20:04:12 (EDT)

Trying hard to remember - the name of the Jewish deli on Miller Road. Was this the best pastrami on rye sandwich or what? I believe there was a deli on E. 7th St. Perhaps that was Gamiel's. Also very good. But I'm tying hard to remember the one on Miller Road. Also, what years would that have been? Miss those deli's. Are they gone forever? I mean a real Jewish delicatessen.
Phyllis B. <pboyd52@comcast.net>
Wilm., DE USA - Saturday, September 22, 2007 at 19:52:24 (EDT)

Wow! Tigress. I was smothered in it at times - to hide the fact that I had been drinking at a very young age. Not sure, but I also think I swallowed some of the stuff. Probably fooled no one. Pat LeVan - did you know Lynn Duncan who lived over top of Minnie Jacob's store or next to it? He was a "regular" at Vandever Ave. & Market. Did the Carl's move on to Delaire? Sounds - how about the desolate wail of the train whistle (Pennsy) in the middle of the night. Webmaster, two waiters who seemed to have worked at the New York Restaurant forever - one was Frank Seltz, the other a pleasant Irish fellow, (can't recall his name) whose wife's first name was Marguerite.
Phyllis B. <pboyd 52@comcast.net>
Wilm., DE USA - Saturday, September 22, 2007 at 19:42:31 (EDT)

And, the sound of the ice crean vendors'tinkling bell, or music. Aromas, The guy who sat behind me on the bus, having eaten garlic the night befor & my hankey doused with "Tigress" not helping a bit! Those were the days, my friends. Walking into the Federal Bakery and having just enough money to buy what Mom ordered.
Barb <Barb@comcast.net>
Peabody, MA USA - Saturday, September 22, 2007 at 16:47:15 (EDT)

SOUNDS - how about the crunch of footsteps on new snow while laying in bed waiting for the sandman; or the whish of cars driving past the house on wet streets.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Saturday, September 22, 2007 at 13:08:16 (EDT)

Sounds, speaking of brick sidewalks, the sounds of the ladies high heel shoes clicking on the sidewalks as they walked up W. 9th St. on their way to work in the morning. Lots of people walked to work. Many families didn't even own a car, they weren't necessary. And the teenage boys who had metal cleats on their shoes that made a ringing sound on the same bricks. Mothers leaning out the doorway to call their children in for supper.
Jingles <JJohnson@aol.com>
New Castle, De USA - Saturday, September 22, 2007 at 12:31:33 (EDT)

Maria, I lived at 2223 Tatnall St. from 1935 till 1950. While I lived there, the store at Concord Ave. & West was Eddie Matz or Eddie Matts, then Eve's Sweet Shop, then Ahearn's. John Carl owned a machine shop on Ashton St. He and his family lived in the house next to it. The kids were: Annabel, Ruthie, Sonny (young John) and Margie. McMillion's grocery store was at 23rd and Tatnall. Before McMillion's, it was Neugebauer's. The plumber was George Mellon. Hope this jogs some memories for you. I remember a Smith family who lived across the street from us on Tatnall St. but I don't remember a Maria. Is Smith your maiden or married name?
Pat LeVan <levan1706@bellsouth.net>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Saturday, September 22, 2007 at 09:27:43 (EDT)

Has anyone been in the area where Brookview Apartments on Darley Road is?___The entire area is fenced off.___What is going on there?___They are the apartments that remind me of a 'fort' and look like the Woodland Apartments on Faulkland Road.
Webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Saturday, September 22, 2007 at 09:14:45 (EDT)

TO: levan1706@bellsouth.net I also grew up between 22nd and 23rd Tatnall Street. I remember Hearn's Grocery Store. Do you remember Joe's Place on the corner of Concord Avenue ? I was wondering what the name of the electrical shop was on Ashton Street, right next to the row houses and right before the garages. Do you remember McMullin's grocery store on the corner of 23rd and Tatnall ? What about the plumber who lived in the house between 22nd and 23rd and Tatnall ? Does anyone remember the Eureka Restaurant on the corner of 6th and Shipley ?
Maria <m.smith4517@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, September 21, 2007 at 21:10:12 (EDT)

SMELLS: A summer rain settling the dust on the brick sidewalks.
TheKid <private>
Wilm, DE USA - Friday, September 21, 2007 at 20:45:05 (EDT)

RUTH - did Ann, Jean, and Cassie live in the end house on Mousley's Row, the strip of house that backed up to 22nd Street between Market and Tatnall?
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, September 19, 2007 at 15:28:21 (EDT)

How about the "Sounds of Silence" when we had the blackouts during WWII. The Civil Patrol guys made sure everyone had lights out or black shades drawn. Sure was quiet! Also, how about the buzzing of the planes that we tried to identify...B-17s or B-22s? Or the bombers flying overhead..scary to a kid! Shirley Hudson Jester
Shirley Hudson Jester <ujest110@aol.com>
Newark, DE USA - Wednesday, September 19, 2007 at 14:58:52 (EDT)

Good one, Pat! Do you remember the "Poluted Water" signs sticking out of the Brandywine on the zoo side? How about the sight of huge pools of blue, green, and red dye moving down the creek! Not everything has changed for the worse in Wilmington.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, September 19, 2007 at 11:02:19 (EDT)

One of the "smells" I remember from Wilmington was the stink of the "Race" which ran along the Brandywine near Market St. Bridge. Phewwwwwwww!
Pat LeVan <levan1706@bellsouth.net>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Wednesday, September 19, 2007 at 10:18:45 (EDT)

Butch, the name Carol Tierney does not ring a bell.
Carol <novablu188@yahoo.com>
Pescara, Abruzzo Italy - Wednesday, September 19, 2007 at 09:27:58 (EDT)

The boy I dated after he had already graduated from Sallies was attending St. Joe's college on the Main Line. Jesuits did teach there. Since my friend spoke often about all the priests who taught him, I confused the two schools. For the record, the nuns at Padua were Franciscans and the priests at St. Anthony's were also Oblates.
Carol <novablu188@yahoo.com>
Pescara, Abruzzo Italy - Wednesday, September 19, 2007 at 09:25:12 (EDT)

Carol: The priests that run Sallies are Oblates of St Francis deSales. Another senior moment?
Sean <sknagel@msn.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Wednesday, September 19, 2007 at 08:34:12 (EDT)

Carol, By any chance was Carol Tierney at Padua when you were there? Thanks
Butch Schilling <fschilling@adairhorneassoc.com,>
Aiken, SC USA - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 18:30:08 (EDT)

Here's another Prom story. This one didn't make headlines but back in the "days", it was an honor for a Padua girl to be invited to a Sallie's prom. Big honor. Personally, I wasn't so fortunate, but one of my Padua classmates was. On the evening of the big event, the boy arrived in his car to pick her up at her house on one of those small, Wilmington city streets. Of course, most of her neighors were out on their stoops to watch the couple depart and wave goodbye. At the prom, however, the boy started acting rather fidgety. One of the Jesuits asked him what he was hiding under the table. The boy replied, "It's a bottle of Martini & Rossi, Father". At that point, the priest escorted them both outside. He told the boy to get in his car and go home and he called a cab for my friend and sent her home too. When she arrived back at her house, less than one hour after she had departed, the neighbors were still outside and they watched her get out of the cab, still in her prom gown, and go inside alone, most likely to have a good cry. Needless to say, this was an embarassing position for a young girl to have been put in and she did not talk to that boy for years. I would like to think that at some point since then, they may have patched it up and become friends again.
Carol <novablu188@yahoo.com>
Pescara, Abruzzo Italy - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 16:48:21 (EDT)

I remember everyone of those sounds and smells mentioned so far. How bout these, the Diamond Ice and Coal truck making a delivery and the roar of the coal chunks sliding down the chute into somebody's cellar. The loud bangs that erupted fairly often in the neighborhood which meant a car was backfiring. It doesn't mean that anymore.
Jingles <JJohnson@aol.com>
New Castle, De USA - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 16:43:14 (EDT)

Has anyone else noticed what they have done to the old track field at Rising sun Lane and pennsylvania Ave. The Field as I guess you all know belongs to Tower Hill School. Well they plowed it up and redid it with artificial turf, it looks fantastic. I think the track portion is done in cork. Must have cost a fortune.
Ray Jubb <golfopera@aol.com>
Wilmington, De. USA - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 14:53:31 (EDT)

Jim Rambo: I had an older brother in the Marine Corps and I would get a thumping if I so much as breathed during the National Anthem.
Swifty <williamwswift@aol.com>
York, PA USA - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 13:33:55 (EDT)

...the aroma of dried cattails smoldering in the evening.
Larry Roszkowiak <larry.roszkowiak@ucsf.edu>
San Francisco, C USA - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 13:20:28 (EDT)

SOUNDS - the echo of footsteps in those huge, high ceilinged banks.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 13:16:26 (EDT)

Smells - I stil remember the great odor coming from the Sunbeam plant on Union St. The odor of leaves burning on a fall day. Any sub shop The smell of spring and flowers at the Flower market. Noises -Big Nose Sammy shouting paper, while he was selling the News Journal The church bells at Sacred Heart Church on Sunday
Bruce <private>
Sugarland, TX USA - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 13:12:15 (EDT)

Speaking of Wilmington finest, how about the sounds of their whistles blowing as they directed traffic at various street corners. Also continuing with the buses, the hissing sound that the doors made as they opened. And the odors from the diesel buses which took over. You didn't have to see one to know you were in back of it. The clip clopping of the horses hooves as the junkman made his way up W. 12th St. The creaking of the floorboards on the first floor of Wilmington dry goods.
Jingles <JJohnson435@aol.com>
New Castle, De USA - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 12:00:43 (EDT)

Swifty, Come on, you must have lost your memory. We would wait until the cops were saluting during the Star Spangled Banner and then jump over the fence! The cops were frozen at attention. How about the sound of low-flying airplanes spraying DDT in the summer with the greasy stuff landing on everything.
jim rambo <rammymex@yahoo.com>
ajijic, jalisco Mexico - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 10:50:02 (EDT)

One my favorite sounds came from inside the old Wilmington Ball Park as I circled the park looking for a place that I could sneak in without being nabbed by one of Wilmington's finest. I was usually successful, but as I look back, I believe that some of the policeman would turn away so that didn't see me.
Swfity <williamwswift@aol.com>
York, PA USA - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 10:20:41 (EDT)

SOUNDS?__How about these:__The sound of the B&O Steam engines that ran through the west side of Wilmington.__Being in the lower level of the Pennsylvania RR Station and hearing the 'roar' whenever a GG1 passed overhead.__The musical tones of the Jack & Jill Ice Cream Trucks.__The Wilson Line's whistle.__The heterodyne sounds and static when tuning an AM radio.____You all know that this topic can go on forever, so let's give it a try:...
Webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at 07:28:57 (EDT)

Speaking of long-gone sounds, how about the relatively soft whirr of the elctric motors on the trolleybuses as they started off after a stop, and then the electrical "Pop!" sound they made shortly after as the power from the overhead wires was interrupted momentarily. You'll nver hear that particular sound on the streets of Wilmington again.
Bob Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Monday, September 17, 2007 at 21:36:09 (EDT)

Lets talk about the famous Sandwich shops of Delaware. Charlie's Original Sub Shop on Fourth & Madison Phil's between Sixth and Seventh on Madison. Charlie's #2 who was the former partner of Charlie's on 4th & Madison on 8th. Dan's between 7yh and 8th on Madison (original Turkey Sub man). Frankie's Steak shop on Gov Printz. Cassapola's in Elsmere/ Di Contanzas in Chester. Lank's on Concord Ave. (my shop both hard and soft roll Subs .35 for Soft .50 for Hard Roll Subs) Some other information for the People of Wilmington, Two of the Owner's of Serpe's Bakery live down in Fl so does the origginal Cassapola.
Jerry Lank <transworldtsl@delaware.usa.com>
Marco Island, FL USA - Monday, September 17, 2007 at 20:53:14 (EDT)

Jingles, You forgot the Smells of the Morroco Shops Between Madison and Monroe on sixth Street. The Smell of the Fresh Rolls and the Pizza from Serpe's Bakery on Madison Street. Yhe smell of all the Sub Shops from fourth street to tenth street. The smell of Stoeckle's Brewery on fifth and monroe.
Jerry Lank <transworldtsl@delaware.usa.com>
Marco Island, FL USA - Monday, September 17, 2007 at 20:26:16 (EDT)

I have been writing an account of my childhood in Wilmington to leave behind for grandchildren and great-grandchildren etc. etc. who will never know the pleasures of growing up in our once great city. It occurred to me that certain things spurred my memories. Not just looking at pictures. Of course they would bring memories back to you. How about sounds and smells. A sudden whiff of popcorn coming from my microwave reminded me of walking past the Grand Theater or any of the others on market Street. The smell of fresh roasted peanuts at fourth and King. The odors coming from the original Serpes on Madison Street inviting you in for that nickel a slice (which of course we did not have). The awful fishy odor from Dawson's Fish market on Madison Street. Always wondered why something which smelled so bad could taste so good. Wonderful aroma coming from the several bread manufacturers which wafted through the neighborhood. Some were not so pleasant: odors from Marcus Hook when the wind was blowing our way, the leather manufacturers and the meat rendering facility on South market.
Jingles <JJohnson435@aol.com>
New Castle, De USA - Monday, September 17, 2007 at 12:52:47 (EDT)

M&M Bakery still sells tomato pies. New owners, but he pretty much sticks to the same recipes. They are on Philadelphia Pike across from the Fraternal Order of Eagles hall, just above Lore Avenue/Marsh Road/Philadelphia Pike intesection. Also, in my opinion, a great big NO to Wawa subs. Does anyone remember Penny Hill sub shop, they also offered soft or hard rolls. No one does that anymore. We kind of stick to Cappriotti's these days. Shirley Hudson Jester
Shirley Hudson Jester <ujest110@aol.com>
Newark, DE USA - Monday, September 17, 2007 at 12:34:28 (EDT)

fLast time I was in Wilmington, the old Friends meeting house and presumably its school, was still there at 4th and Washington. That neighborhood today is definitely a drive-by, and definitely not a walk-by. I had some friends at the Friends School in Alapocas back in the 40's. Is that still going strong?
Bob Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Sunday, September 16, 2007 at 16:58:24 (EDT)

Connie I found this site about Friends School, http://www.wilmingtondefriendsmeeting.org/history.htm
Tom Brejwa <brejwa@mchsi.com>
ocean view, de USA - Sunday, September 16, 2007 at 15:03:14 (EDT)

Sept 16 "1937 Friends School moved from 4th Street to Alapocas in North Wilmington." I WONDER IF THE ORIGINAL BUILDING IS STILL THERE.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, September 16, 2007 at 14:32:37 (EDT)

The people talking about Subs, what has made a big difference in the ingredients of the sub everywhere is the advent of Sysco Foods which can deliver everything but the good Italian Rolls. Does anyone out there remember Frankie's Steak shop. They had a shop on Gov Printz, they sokd them for .35 and they were the best in town. They also had a fantastic Soft Ball team that had legendary Clyde Farmer pitching for their team.
Jerry Lank <transworldtsl@delaware.usa.com>
Marco Island, Fl USA - Saturday, September 15, 2007 at 00:03:29 (EDT)

To Swifty, Thanks for the info on Joe and Frank, I haven't seen them in years either. I was wondering if they were still playing or what happened to them. I knew them well back in the Sixties. I use to see Frank around Marsh road every once in a while,but I haven't seen either one of them in years. If you see them tell them that Jerry Lank was asking for them. Thanks again
Jerry Lank <transworldtsl@delaware.usa.com>
Marco Island, Fl USA - Friday, September 14, 2007 at 22:02:31 (EDT)

To Jerry - Yes, I remember Joe & Frank. I knew them from my teen years in the Bellfonte area. I never could tell them apart. The way I normally knew who was who was when Frank punched me on the arm. Joe never did that. It's been years since I went to see the group play. At the time it was called Velvet Britches. Joe is in the band and Frank collected the money at the door. I saw them in the Baltimore area and they were packing the house. They also featured 'Little El' who did a good job impersonating the King of Rock N Roll.
Swifty <williamwswift@aol.com>
York, PA 17403 - Friday, September 14, 2007 at 12:44:24 (EDT)

Does anyone out there remember the Doherty Bros. from Windybush. They put on shows at Bowlerama and the Talleyho on 202 during the Sixties. I was just wondering if they are still around.
Jerry Lank <transworldtsl@delaware.usa.com>
Marco Island, Fl USA - Thursday, September 13, 2007 at 23:18:11 (EDT)

Someone had mentioned the Pantalones. They are in the catering business in Wilmiongton.
Jerry Lank <transworldtsl@delaware.usa.com>
Marco Island, Fl USA - Thursday, September 13, 2007 at 23:00:05 (EDT)

well it can be listened to and downloaded at this site http://www.myspace.com/toddchappelle
Tom Brejwa <brejwa@mchsi.com>
ocean view, de USA - Thursday, September 13, 2007 at 19:09:08 (EDT)

Tom, I heard the new De. song, pretty good--I'll send it on if anyone would like to hear it.
Jean <usa>
wilmDE, DE USA - Thursday, September 13, 2007 at 18:57:41 (EDT)

Wilmington friends, I must apologize for my error and the confusion it may have caused. Apparently, this is what a senior moment does to you. The Judy who married my cousin, Tom, was another Judy -- not Judy Pantalone. The name Pantalone sounds vaguely familiar but I guess she is still the mystery woman.
Carol <novablu188@yahoo.com>
Pescara, Abruzzo Italy - Thursday, September 13, 2007 at 16:13:44 (EDT)

has anyone heard the "Im from Delaware" song yet?
Tom Brejwa <brejwa@mchsi.com>
ocean view, de USA - Thursday, September 13, 2007 at 12:36:25 (EDT)

I was browsing in the April 2007 archives and came across some information about 67 Prom flowers. I'm interested in hearing about the story, so if someone could fill me in, I would appreciate it because I only picked up bits and pieces. For the record, however, Judy Pantalone was a very pretty girl who grew up in my neighborhood. She married my cousin, Tom Neuberger who is an attorney in Wilmington and and all around great guy. Judy may well have gone to the prom with Truman Clothier. But I am disappointed in the fact that anyone who may have known Truman would say negative things about him in a public forum because I remember him as a well liked and popular guy and that's why my cousin's wife took him to the prom.
Carol <novablu188@yahoo.com>
Pescara, Abruzzo Italy - Thursday, September 13, 2007 at 06:52:13 (EDT)

Sure do, the wax bottles you would bite the top of and drink something eeeek, what was it? pills on paper,etc-- in the 40 acres we went to Joe prouds on lincoln st and weinbergs, lincoln and Gilpen ave.
Jean <usa>
wilm, de USA - Wednesday, September 12, 2007 at 22:34:27 (EDT)

Does anyone out there remember the Penny Candy Counters. The .05 ice cream cones or the .19 MacDonald Hamburgers. When the Food stores were closed 1/2 day on Sat completely on Sunday and closed at 5pm during the week.
Jerry Lank <transworldtsl@delaware.usa.com>
Marco Island, Fl USA - Wednesday, September 12, 2007 at 22:19:21 (EDT)

I noticed that someone was talking about Subs. The first ones were from Charlie's between 4th and 5th on Madison Street. At that time that had two varieties (soft or hard Roll) The soft Roll Subs were .35 and the hard Roll Subs were .50. In 1952 Serpe's opened on Madison between 6th and seventh and Yatz's bought their rolls from them they still buy them today. Yatz's on 6th and Lincoln is the third generation of sub makers. Also Cappriotti's and Casapola's also buy their rolls from Serpe's.
Jerry Lank <transworld@delaware.usa.com>
Marco Island, Fl USA - Wednesday, September 12, 2007 at 21:53:03 (EDT)

I was wondering if anyone had a photo of a place called Katz's Children's Boutique. I believe it was on 4th street. My mother was born in the apartment above the shop. I can remember her taking me there to buy dresses when I was little. I'd love to get a photo of the place for my genealogy records. Also I'm still hoping to come up with an old photo of my great grandfathers cigar store at 22nd & Market St. It was owned by Joseph & Mary Walsh. If anyone has any pictures or memories of my great grandparents or their grandchildren the DeLacy kids I'd love to hear them also. My mom was the former Marie DeLacy, she had brothers & sisters Bill, Eddie, Jim, Anne, Jean & Cassie.
Ruth Corey <rcorey1998@yahoo.com>
Newark, DE USA - Wednesday, September 12, 2007 at 20:59:09 (EDT)

I grew up walking the aisles of Katie's Restaurant. My mom Marie Corey, worked there as a waitress for 29 years. The Fugilino's were nice people they had a real family place. If you wanted the best homemade pasta in town stop in to Katie's and Columbia would whip us some spaghetti or fresh ravioli. Guy or Nick would serve you up a cold one at the bar. I have heard many people boast about their times at Katie's since I was a kid. For me hearing others reminisce about Katie's takes me home again. I'd love to hear more of your memories of Katie's Restaurant.
Ruth Corey <rcorey1998@yahoo.com>
Newark, DE USA - Wednesday, September 12, 2007 at 20:50:53 (EDT)

Hi Linda. Yes, it's Jerry Sizemore. Hope all is well in Round Rock. Happy to know the people are eating well now with all the Wilmingtonians in town.
Carol <novablu188@yahoo.com>
Pescara, Abruzzo Italy - Wednesday, September 12, 2007 at 15:56:55 (EDT)

Jerry Sisemore is the spokesperson for Delaware Subs. Pete the owner of the original Austin store is from Wilmington and went to Sallies (sorry I can't remember his last name now). Pete and John Hood started the business and after they parted ways, John Hood (also went to Sallie's) started up Hoody's in Round Rock. Linda Bundick
Linda Bundick <linda.bundick@dshs.state.tx.us>
round rock, texas USA - Wednesday, September 12, 2007 at 15:41:53 (EDT)

This is a tad bit off topic but here goes anyway --- I have been researching my family's genealogy (Mom's side and Dad's side) since 1970, but several years ago I started, strictly as a hobby and a through a love of history, researching the genealogy of the duPont Family. Living down here in Florida makes access to the four great libraries (Wilmington Public, University of Delaware, Eleutherian Mills-Hagley, and the Historical Society of Delaware) difficult at best. Would love to correspond (e-mail or snail mail) with anyone interested in Wilmington history or genealogy, and/or duPont Family genealogy/history. I was a student of Dr. John A. Munroe at the Univ of Delaware who light my fire, so to speak, and almost 40 years later I still love it all. How's by you ?
Roy C. Pollitt <pollitt941@comcast.net>
Punta Gorda, FL USA - Wednesday, September 12, 2007 at 13:16:54 (EDT)

Sugarland Bruce. I lived in Austin ten years. This time of year I miss the Hill Country. An old Eagles football star is a sponsor of the Delaware Sub Shops in Austin. His pictures are part of the decor, but I can't remember his name.
Carol <novablu188@yahoo.com>
Pescara, Abruzzo Italy - Wednesday, September 12, 2007 at 13:06:43 (EDT)

Dave McAllister’s nickname was “Snapper” since his family had the Philly Restaurant that featured (and sold canned) snapper soup. He also had a F-84F with the name “Soupersonic Snapper” on it’s side. He wrote a book titled “Sabres Over the Brandywine”. While his title at All American Engineering was “Chief of Flight Test” he was really in a marketing job trying to sell arresting gear. Milton Caniff modeled the character “Hot Shot Charlie” in the comic strip “Terry and the Pirates” after Snapper. When he was killed, Caniff wrote a “Steve Canyon” strip memorial that had DE Air Guard F-86s call the Scott Field tower for permission to make a 4 ship low pass and drop a wreath over the crash spot, but of course there were only 3 planes. This was the traditional “missing man” formation. The strip was published nationally and later in the magazine “Air Force”. I do not think Snapper flew combat in Korea, but several members of the DE Air Guard did. Retired General Bill Hutchison, who will be inducted into the DE Aviation Hall of Fame in October, was one who did fly combat in F-84s in Korea.
Bob Veazey <bobbyvz@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, September 12, 2007 at 12:15:34 (EDT)

Tom & Wayne, Thank you for Col. McCallister's 1st name. This site is so very interesting to me. So many comments trigger thoughts about my childhood & growing-up years.
Barb <barb@comcast.net>
Peabody, MA USA - Wednesday, September 12, 2007 at 11:08:31 (EDT)

Carol, I've been by the Delaware Sub shops in Austin and thought it was another chain that didn't know what they were doing. I have two daughters who go to U T, so next time up there we'll try them. We were there a month ago and I had a Delaware T shirt on (from Happy Harry's) and my wife wanted me to go in to the sub shop and see if they would give me a free sub. Next time I'll give it a try on your recommendation. Being in Italy how do you know about Austin?
Bruce <private>
Sugarland, TX USA - Wednesday, September 12, 2007 at 08:17:14 (EDT)

Barb, LT.Col. David McCallister I believe his middle initial was F but am not really that sure about it. He wrote a book and it was published. I remember him signing copies in the admin building at lunchtime one drill weekend not too long before his death. I don"t remember the title, but do remember one part within the novel about him lighting a cigarette. He said the character closed one eye while bringing the match close to lite it. This was to enable the pilot to keep his night vision while flying and lighting up. It's really funny the things that you remember, and those that you don't. Bottom line, his first name was David, hope that helps, Wayne
Wayne <twntydasys@aol.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Tuesday, September 11, 2007 at 19:15:57 (EDT)

Regarding Katies. I lived in Little Italy too. My aunt got married at St. Anthony's during the time when Catholic ceremonies were held in the morning because you had to fast before Communion. After the Mass, the wedding party went to Katies for a special breakfast, then took a nap in the middle of the day so they could be ready to party at the reception in Fournier Hall which began at 5:00 PM and went til midnight. Satin was the fabric worn for weddings back then. I was the flower girl and my dress was made of blue satin with a layer of white, lace Tulle on top. First Communion dresses for the girls at St. Anthony's were also made of Tulle. Now, I know why. Tulle is an Italian fabric. It's still used extensively today in Italian fashions and was imported by the shops in Little Italy for the Italians in Wilmington, along with cheese, olive oil and all the other products.
Carol <novablu188@yahoo.com>
Pescara, Abruzzo Italy - Tuesday, September 11, 2007 at 13:49:55 (EDT)

in reference to tomato pie.......check out the old difonzo bakery on union..it is called black lab?? different but very, very good...............and the fresh rolls remind you of the difonzo days.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
doesn't matter <drde@comcast.net>
wilm, de USA - Tuesday, September 11, 2007 at 13:17:10 (EDT)

Oldschool, great nostalgia comments about the area around St. Anthony's. I used to walk on Lincoln Street going to grade school every day and sometimes, they would be unloading the livestock in front of Messina's. I remember seeing the cows walking down the shoot. I didn't think anything of it back then but now the thought of it bothers me. Too much meat isn't good. Luciano Pavarotti didn't get that big from eating Pasta.
Carol <novablu188@yahoo.com>
Pescara, Abruzzo Italy - Tuesday, September 11, 2007 at 13:03:11 (EDT)

For Bruce in Sugarland. Go up to Austin some weekend. There are several Delaware Sub Shops owned by a guy originally from Browntown. It's authentic.
Carol <novablu188@yahoo.com>
Pescara, Abruzzo Italy - Tuesday, September 11, 2007 at 12:32:40 (EDT)

Sure, Oldschool, I remember Chicken Delight. Going West on 4th, it was on the South side between Greenhill and Ford. Before it was Chicken Delight, it was a children's clothing shop called Orsini's.
Carol <novablu188@yahoo.com>
Pescara, Abruzzo Italy - Tuesday, September 11, 2007 at 12:14:26 (EDT)

I left DE in 1968 and I've one of the things I've always missed is a good sub. Whenever I get back, I try to find the time to eat a sub. When I move back (if I every sell my home in PA), I can guarantee you that having a sub will be a priority.
Swifty <williamwswift@aol.com>
York, PA USA - Tuesday, September 11, 2007 at 10:33:03 (EDT)

The Post House on Main Street is alive and well. Had breakfast there about a month ago.
JEH <jeh@nospam.com>
Newark, DE USA - Tuesday, September 11, 2007 at 06:57:08 (EDT)

jean, there was also another post house in newark, on maine street, but i don't know if its still there. everybody says wawa's subs are good, but i can't get myself to try one, c'mon its wawa, milk, bread,coffee, but not not a sub!!!!
oldeschool55 <oldeschool55@yahoo.com>
wilm, de USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 20:00:50 (EDT)

there is also a post house on or about 40th and market, across from the old sears, I think it's market and lea blvd.---don't laugh but, has anyone tried a sub from WAWA? you put everthing you want on it in a computer--from the meat,type of cheese even extra,pic,oil, you name it and diff. size from a jr to x large.
Jean <usa>
wilm, de USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 18:19:14 (EDT)

Barb, his name was David
Tom Brejwa <brejwa@mchsi.com>
o, de USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 17:29:08 (EDT)

Well, I am litterly salivating. Subs here are pathetic up here as compared to Wilmington. The first year I tried no less than 5 different Shops, all terrible. Then I wandered into a supermarket called Stop & Shop & they had pre-made Italian Subs. I asked for the Deli.Mgr.& explained that a "classic Italian Sub" is never pre-made, NEVER with chopped pickles, tomatos or onions & always on a semi-hard roll with EVOO sprinkled first. Soooo,he built one for mr & included Capaccola,bordadella[SP],Italian salami,torn lettuce, SLICED, tomatos, onions and dill pockle, Provolone,and han. I paid $ 5.50 and it wasn't bad. Went back there several weeks ago & they have a sign "We'll make them to order" I ordeded MY Italian Sub and smiled all the way home. Re" Tasty Kakes." Supermarkets are selling them up here now, but, the "sell-by" dates are almost always only 2 days hence. I wonder if they arrive from Phila. frozen? I'm still addicted to butterscotch krimpets. Great reading all the posts here. Can someone tell me the first name of Col. McCallister? I remember a Military fellow who dated my oldest sister whose name was Jimmy McCallister, who joined the Air Force during WWll.
Barb <Barb@comcast.net>
Peabody, MA USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 17:02:27 (EDT)

while we are on the subject of food....does anyone remember "chicken delight" on 4th street????? fried chicken and bbq'd ribs and they delivered!!!!!! wich was very special back in the 60's!!!!
oldeschool55 <oldeschool55@yahoo.com>
wilm, de USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 15:42:18 (EDT)

jean, your right, both imperial deli's are gone. how is 5 guys??/ r the burgers any good?? used to be the best burgers came from the post house!! do you remember the post house on pennsylvania ave??? theres still one on union st, haven't been in there in awhile.
oldeschool55 <oldeschool55@yahoo.com>
wilm, de USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 15:12:50 (EDT)

I meant the pantanos on scott st and lovering ave--it was called POPs it was owned by mom & pop pantano and Frankie was the son and I do believe it is the same one over by the water ice. also the deli in fairfax is closed it is now a five guys.
Jean <usa>
wilm, de USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 15:08:34 (EDT)

Old School - I remember the sub shop by the Acme at Dupont Street. What about Imperial Deli by the Ferris School? THey also opened a store in Fairfax. I think Cassapulla's was the best. I've been gone from Wilmington so long I don't know if there are any still around. Same goes for Ferris School.
Bruce <private>
Sugarland, TX USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 14:49:11 (EDT)

greg, not sure about the doctors office up the street from casapula's, but i do remember a pharmacy!!!!!
oldeschool55 <oldeschool55@yahoo.com>
wilm, de USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 14:09:59 (EDT)

jean, i forgot all about pantanos, right above the water ice place right??? great sandwiches
oldeschool55 <oldeschool55@yahoo.com>
wilm, de USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 14:07:48 (EDT)

The Premium Sub Shop on Maryland Ave (down from Johnny's) made good subs.___My experience with Casapulla Subs is that they must have 12 outlets and 12 ways of making a sub.
Webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 13:45:44 (EDT)

Greg, long befor Gus was Sophias (sp) sub shop and the parents still were at "the club" and also pantanos (sp)--- having a little trouble with the old names. If looking for a turkey sub I think capriotti"s is better then casapulla but, still nothing beats an Italian sub
Jean <usa>
wilm, de USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 13:21:21 (EDT)

When it comes to eating the best sub, there is no better than Caspulla's in Elsmere. I grew up in Elsmers in the 60's and early 70's just a couple of blocks away on Sander's road and there was nothing better than riding my bike to get a sub or cheesesteak for lunch. For you Elsmere oldtimers, anybody remember the doctors office one block up from Casapulla's? Another great sub shop was Gus's sub shop in 40 acres. Gus was a mean old bird but he made a great sub. For all the kids who lived in 40 acres, thats where we would eat while their parents were hanging out at the Stapler club.
Greg <tolab@aol.com>
Gastonia, NC USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 13:07:47 (EDT)

We weren't familiar with Little Italy; our stomping ground was on the other side of the Brandywine. Before we graduated and started working we didn't have money to spend on store-bought-prepared foods. After we began working and could afford cars we mostly went to the Dan Dee at 30th and Gov Printz and Jan's Steak house next door to them. Later we went to the Greenhill on Maryland Ave outside of Newport. Only on special occasions did we go to Katy's.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 13:04:42 (EDT)

connie, are you old enough to remember borgia's and frankies on union street??? how about mikes subshop down at 9th and union??? we had a million of them in little italy when i was growing up - dan's sub shop on dupont street near the hospital, ray's sub shop @10th and dupont, the hidaway and the cave down by the acme..................... ring any bells?????????
oldeschool55 <oldeschool55@yahoo.com>
wilm, de USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 12:50:31 (EDT)

All of the talk about subs has my mouth watering. What I wouldn't give for one right about now. It's been way to long. It's been over a year since I've been back to Wilmington and I'm missing it and my family and friends back there. Would one of you lucky ones who still live there have one for me? I grew up eating Casapulla's. Also have great memories of Pala's and am sorry to hear that it closed.
Mary Roepke <mbcold1@aol.com>
Bloomington, MN USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 12:45:17 (EDT)

Tom, That URL on the paint restoration of the F86 was very interesting. Thanks. The color on the stripes really does like an "orange dayglo". There is one picture where it does look like a yellow. THanks for the lead. Budo
Budo <budmar53at poolesite.com>
Wilm, De USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 12:15:19 (EDT)

Sub shops - I'll go with Harry, but back when Bole's was still at the NW corner of West and Concord in the very early 1950's. Second pick: Angie's, in Newark, off Cleveland Avenue, with a pint of chocolate drink.
Bob Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 12:13:35 (EDT)

Thanx, Mr. Webmaster ... I was willing to bet everything that I was correct, that Tom's was in Newport, but I could not remember the name of the shop on Boxwood Road, so I put my trust in the folks of olwilmington.net "Morris' Sub Shop" was absolutely and deliciously correct for Boxwood Road --- it all came back to me the split second I read your posting. Now if I could just go back to 1960 and buy the home next door to either one of them! Or the Arden Sub Shop, or any of the rest of those GREAT Wilmington-area sub shops. Or better still, if I could only get my aging little sorry ole bod the you-know-what out of Flori-duh! .
Roy C. Pollitt <pollitt941@comcast.net>
Punta Gorda, FL USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 12:12:54 (EDT)

Speaking of Subs the best was Charlies at 8th and Madison then I would pick Boles on 29th st.
Harry Brand <salliesbrand@msn.com>
Wilmington, Delaware USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 09:52:20 (EDT)

Wayne thanks for your informative answer on Col. McCallisters airplane. I enjoy building scale models of aircraft especially those of the Del ANG and wanted to be accurate. Way back in my memory I thought I had heard by a pilot who use to fly them that those aircraft during that period had blue and gold stripes. The number of blue stripes in a particular aircraft was an indication of the pilots position in the squadron: 3 blue stripes (surrounded by the gold stripes)would be the squadron leaders (McCallisters), two stripes indicated the Operations Officer and a single blue strip for other pilots. I know that for quite a few years I would always see his aircraft sitting out by Basin Rd and it always seemed to have that Orange Day Glo color stripe.Need some of the guys that use to work on them to settle the question. Thanks again Wayne
Budo <budmar53at poolesite.com>
Wilm, DE USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 08:34:53 (EDT)

Subs - When my parents would visit me here in Texas in the early 80's they would bring all of the makings for subs in a cooler. A sub shop in the Naaman's Rd area would package everything separately so that it could be put together without being soggy when it arrived. Even the oil was in a separate container. I'm sure this couldn't be done today with all of the security at the airports. I agree with Roy, they don't understand subs outside of the Delaware area. I went to one place and they wanted to put bologna on a sub. Yes, occasionally the grocery stores have Tasty Cakes.
Bruce <private>
Sugarland, TX USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 08:33:24 (EDT)

RE: The making of subs. One of the most important things to remember when making your sub (and even a lot of the newer shops don't do it) is that extra virgin olive oil gets sprinkled predominately on the bread, with a (VERY Little) splashed over the lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, as you would a salad. This way it is absorbed into the bread and doesn't run off onto your lap while you're eating the thing. I think I'm going to the kitchen now! CIAO
Wayne <twntydasys@aol.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 07:58:35 (EDT)

A word about "The Worlds Worst Pizza" - Pala's.__I remember Giordano - he was a "First Class" matre'd.__I can vision him now, he always had a (red) towel folded over his arm. A question I have: When I worked at the Wilmington Dry Goods in 1960, I ate at The New York Restaurant a lot (Banana Cream pies).__I remember a waiter there that I think was Giordano - am I correct?
Webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 06:24:15 (EDT)

Tom's was in Newport at 113 N. James Street (Newport Gap Pike). The one on Boxwood Road you are thinking of was Morris Sub Shop at Boxwood Road & Boxwood Avenue/Jackson Avenue - across the street from Conrad High School.
Webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Monday, September 10, 2007 at 04:38:37 (EDT)

OK --- I need some help. Go back to the 1950's and 1960's (1960-1963) and help me settle a family "argument". What were the names of the sub shops, one located in Newport on the Newport Gap Pike and the other on Boxwood Road just a few blocks from Maryland Avenue. --- BTW, I remember a Tom's Sub Shop .... was Tom's one of these ??? And for those of you living in New Castle County, cherish your local sub shops. You ought to see what they pass for a "sub" down here in Charlotte County, Florida ... IF you can find a "Sub Shop" at all ! And, don't get me started on TastyKakes ..... aaaargh.
Roy C. Pollitt <pollitt941@comcast.net>
Punta Gorda, FL USA - Sunday, September 09, 2007 at 21:52:41 (EDT)

Please forgive my ridculous grammar! In my post about Pala's, "freshly sitted" should have been "freshly seated". Sometimes my fleeting fingers typing get ahead of my radio-soaked brain !
Roy C. Pollitt <pollitt941@comcast.net>
Punta Gorda, FL USA - Sunday, September 09, 2007 at 21:48:16 (EDT)

I am saddened to hear that Pala's at 7th and Union has been sold and closed. I spent many a wonderful time, sitting at the bar, swigging a beer and munching down a stromboli or pizza with my then-boss at Faulk Road Liquors, the late Bill "Hoss" Farwell. TuTu (one of the Pala brothers -- please forgive my spelling) was the bartender, frequently, and Giordano, who later had his own restaurant, was the "matre'd". I have many stories of happenings that occurred when I was there. Here's one. Hoss and I were devouring a pizza, Hoss sitting at the bar to my left and a freshly sitted patron sitting to my right. Hoss, in a larger than usual voice, asked me what I thought of the current play of the Phillies. I commented that they were playing like bums (often the case back in the early to mid 1970's). Hoss laughed with a big "gotcha grin" and said, pointing to the fellow on my right, "Say Hello to Chris Short!" My heart sank a bit as I turned and recognized Chris, one of the Phillies' greatest left-handers of all-time. Fortunately, he just chuckled and we had a nice evening chatting about baseball. The fact that my father and his family were from Laurel and Chris was from Georgetown didn't hurt either! Ah. memories! Pala's billed it's pizza as "World's Worst!" Just the opposite ---- I loved every bite !
Roy C. Pollitt <pollitt941@comcast.net>
Punta Gorda, FL USA - Sunday, September 09, 2007 at 21:44:42 (EDT)

Budo, They are the correct colors on the plane. The color you're referring to was called day-glo orange. It was almost a fluorescent color, very bright and used on his plane as squadron leader exclusively. The name of the plane CindyLind the 9th was after his daughters, I was told. I have actually sat in that particular plane when I was in the Air Guard (58 - 64), and attempted to work on the radar system. About all I was qualified to do was pull it out, or replace it. You could sit out on the flight line and actually listen to WAMS on the radio in the plane which I did on more than one occasion. There were a number of the F 86's stationed there until shortly after McCallisters' death. He and Gen.Spruance had gone to AF headquarters to fight to keep the squadron a tactical fighter unit. In that capacity they would fly as escort for the Strategic Air Command among other duties. The Air Force wanted to change the nature of the squadron to a MATS (Military Air Transport Squadron) which was an old workhorse that transported troops and supplies. McCallister being a veteran fighter pilot from the Korean war wanted nothing of it. When he and Spruance took of from the base out there (Colorado, I believe) in a T 33 it was a crash and burn takeoff. McCallister died, I'm sure Spruance wishes he did. He suffered for many years afterward. The rest is to be seen as you drive by. Shortly afterward the 166th became a MATS group. No more jet fighters.
Wayne <twntydasys@aol.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Sunday, September 09, 2007 at 19:25:05 (EDT)

Don't know anything about the airplane but if it was the original paint, it could have 'changed color' with time. Blue and Gold are Delaware colors so it would seem they would be what was used.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, September 09, 2007 at 09:25:29 (EDT)

Saw in saturday's paper the article and picture of Lt. Col. McCallister F86H aircraft at the Del. ANG on the grounds of the airport. I think its great for a reminder of the men and aircraft of the Del Air Guard that use to fly those aircraft. The honoring of the pilots that use to fly them at the ceremony was past due. I miss seeing those fighters around the field back in the late 50's. Here's a question : I noticed in the picture of the Colonel's plane that the stripes on the side appear to be painted a dark blue and a sort of an orange color. I always thought they were dark blue and gold. Anyone that was in the guard at that time remember ?
Budo <budmar53at poolesite.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, September 09, 2007 at 08:49:28 (EDT)

JEAN, I HAVE BEEN TO THE SSTAPLER CLUB ONCE OR TWICE, IS IT STILL AN ACTIVE CLUB??? how was mona lisa, theres a nice italian club right next door - the piedmont.
oldeschool55 <oldeschool55@YAHOO.COM>
WILM, DE USA - Sunday, September 09, 2007 at 07:06:51 (EDT)

OH yes, many days at stapler park, did you go to the stapler club? I just came back from little Italy, had dinner at Mona Lisas at 6th and lincoln, kind of quiet in the city for Sat. night
Jean <usa>
wilm, de USA - Saturday, September 08, 2007 at 22:31:39 (EDT)

TALKING ABOUT PLACES IN "LITTLE ITALY" PALA'S AT 7TH. & UNION ST. CLOSED UP. IT HAS BEEN SOLD......DON'T KNOW WHEN IT WILL REOPEN
JOE "BUBBLES" PASQUALE <jnpasquale@comcast.net>
wilm., de. USA - Saturday, September 08, 2007 at 21:55:28 (EDT)

When we were children we used to watch the old Italian men play Bocce Ball around what later became Baynard Stadium. They'd talk to us in Italian and their wives would tell them, "Speak English. They don't understand Italian." Then the men would say something else to us in Italian,explaining the rules of their game.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Saturday, September 08, 2007 at 18:49:14 (EDT)

well, lets see, growing up in little italy.................. a sub shop or small grocery on almost every corner, spending most of our time at lincoln park on 9th street, spaghetti dinners at st anthony's,the italian festival when it was the size of what the greeks have now,pro wrestling at fournier hall, difonzo's bakery, goldies deli on union st, getting to see a cow bust loose out of messina's butcher shop on lincoln st and have it run down lincoln with the butchers chasing it, watching the ole italian guys play bocce across from st anthony's club,,,,,,,,,,,.................. Jean, i also remember going down to stapler park and playing basketball in the summer!!
oldeschool55 <oldeschool55@yahoo.com>
wilm, de USA - Saturday, September 08, 2007 at 18:06:45 (EDT)

How do I remember Little Italy? Let me count the ways: l. Delicious lemon ice, bought on Union Street. 2. Spaghetti at Katies....and those Singapore Slings. 3. Fighting our way out of the Armory after basketball games, particularly when we won. 4. Steak sandwiches served up by "John" at the World's Worst Pizza joint on Union. 5. Watching Ray Charles and Bill Haley stageside at the Armory. 6. The Fiorettis and all those others dancing at the Armory. 7. My dad, working at the firehouse and jumping off the training tower at Third and Union. 8. Boxing matches at Fournier Hall. 9. Crabs on Lincoln Street. 10. Drinking after hours at the old firemens club. 11. Hearing Jim Carra play trumpet in the old St.Anthony's Band. 12. The carnivals... Those were good times, for sure.
jim rambo <rammymex@yahoo.com>
ajijic, jalisco Mexico - Saturday, September 08, 2007 at 13:40:55 (EDT)

Phyllis, funny you should mention Minnie Jacobs. In the late 40's and early 50's, Minnie's old store became the Brandywine Little Shop owned by the Brodsky family. It was a children's clothing store. My family actually lived in the 2nd floor apartment over the shop for several years. Just next door to that building was one of the oldest buildings in Wilmington. I can't remember the family who lived there at the time but the grandfather had had a shoe repair shop there for quite a while. In later years, they used it as a home. It was a beautiful little colonial house and one of the contributors to this column sent me a picture of it last year. By the way, his name is Bruce and we haven't heard from him in a long time. Hope he is well. About Minnie, I remember her sitting outside her store shelling lima beans which she sold in pint and quart boxes. A few stores down the Chadwick sisters had a little drygoods store and their brother had Chadwick's drugstore on the corner of Vandever Ave. and Market. It was a nice neighborhood then.
Pat LeVan <levan1706@bellsouth.net>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Saturday, September 08, 2007 at 07:41:58 (EDT)

I have to agree with you, Pat LeVan - Remedio's pizza at Lancaster Ave. and Scott was the best. Also, relative to the area known as Brandywine Village, anyone remember Minnie Jacobs store? Store was packed to the rafters. Minnie sold everything from shoe strings to eggs to candy to nail polish. If you couldn't get it at Minnie's, it most likely couldn't be had.
Phyllis B. <pboyd52@ comcast.net>
Wilm., DE USA - Saturday, September 08, 2007 at 03:00:57 (EDT)

Yes...Gerardo's is still open, at least they were this afternoon. I had actually forgotten about Remedio's, I believe Lancaster & DuPont. It was a nice little bar/restaurant & the food was great, but I'm still going with Gerardo's as my favorite pizza.
Jim Batty <travelcompany@att.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, September 07, 2007 at 19:19:06 (EDT)

For those of you who might be interested, there's an interesting article on Lewes DE, in the "Escapes" Section of today's (Friday's)THE NEW YORK TIMES.
Bob Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Friday, September 07, 2007 at 18:32:33 (EDT)

From 1762 when the first millrace was dug along the Brandywine until 1869 when it was annexed to the city, Brandywine Village was but a neighbor to Wilmington heres a nice link to the history http://www.brandywinevillage.org/images/BrandywineValley_walktour.pdf
Tom Brejwa <brejwa@mchsi.com>
ocean view, de USA - Friday, September 07, 2007 at 18:04:18 (EDT)

"Although largely a quiet, historic setting for decades, Brandywine Village in Wilmington, Delaware is steeped in history on a national as well as local level. The Village played an important role in the Revolutionary War and to a much greater extent the Industrial Revolution."
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, September 07, 2007 at 17:59:44 (EDT)

Brandywine Village existed decades ago. One only need look at the stone houses near 18th and Market to realize that. There was a long row of wooden rowhouses across the street from them, there was a storefront with an encased section of the original log wall, and there was a fish market with wooden floors and a butcher shop with a dirt floor in the 40s. If there's anything new about Brandywine Village, it's due to the attempts to renew the area.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, September 07, 2007 at 17:53:31 (EDT)

I grew up in the same area as Connie. In my day, 40's and 50's, we just called it the 9th Ward. I lived on Tatnall between 22nd and 23rd. I think some sort of urban renewal was attempted in later years and Brandywine Village became fashionable. Mostly I believe, it was used to describe the shopping area along Market St. between 18th St. and perhaps 25th.
Pat LeVan <levan1706@bellsouth.net>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Friday, September 07, 2007 at 17:23:13 (EDT)

Connie, but is Gerardos open? and tony brandywine village is at the foot of 202 and market street and by St. Johns church, do you remember Hearns restaurant well that is part of brandywine village not sure of start & finish also wilm. trust had a bank there it was called the B V. office.
Jean <usa>
wilm, de USA - Friday, September 07, 2007 at 16:48:07 (EDT)

Speaking of pizza, does anyone remember Remedio's at Lancaster Ave. and I think Scott St.? Back in the 50's, that was the place to go for the best pizza in the world! We used to get pizza at Remedio's after the movies and drive out to Greenhill Dairy Drive-In for milkshakes or their famous orange drink. Remedio's was a bar, but they had a side window where we kids could order the pizza. It was sooooooooo good. I have never tasted a better one anywhere in our years of living all over the U.S.
Pat LeVan <levan1706@bellsouth.net>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Friday, September 07, 2007 at 07:22:17 (EDT)

Jim, I agree Gerardos pizza IS the best--it was closed and then only open for take out-then heard it closed again--what is it open or closed? YES, I do remember groffs in wildwood, did you every have the HOME MADE pies?
Jean <usa>
wilm, de USA - Thursday, September 06, 2007 at 21:20:18 (EDT)

I love the "Wildwood" stories. Remember GROFF's Restaurant? One of the best, in the 50's and 60's at least. Located at Magnolia at boardwalk. In another vein, the one and only Frankie Baldo passed away this week. What a guitarist! - the likes of which are not likely to come along again in my lifetime.
Phyl.lis B. <pboyd 52@comcast.net>
Wilm., DE USA - Thursday, September 06, 2007 at 21:12:02 (EDT)

I agree with you that Grotto is really awful pizza. Of course, everyone has their own opinion as to the best. At least 30 years ago we went to Gerardo's in the 1900 block of Lancaster Ave. It was actually in their basement & you would have to go down the steps in front of the house. WELL--you can still get their great-I think the best-pizza, made from the exact same recipe, at the present Gerardo's at 114 N. Union St in Wilm. Again, my opinion & I'm sticking to it!
Jim Batty <travelcompany@att.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, September 06, 2007 at 19:20:07 (EDT)

We used to go to the Merryland every week. Weren't there then, though. A coworker lived down that way and the next weekend he went to the site and still saw body parts strewn about. He said he was sorry he went,after what he discovered was still there.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, September 06, 2007 at 11:06:28 (EDT)

I was at the Maryland Roller Rink on that evening. They made us move away from the window because at first they thought it was a heater explosion at the rink. We all stared at the sky, watching bodies, luggage, debris falling. It was horrible, and a scene I'll never forget. It was proably a mile or more away, but looked much closer. Shirley Hudson Jester
Shirley Hudson Jester <ujest110@aol.com>
Newark, DE USA - Thursday, September 06, 2007 at 10:28:03 (EDT)

I remember that well. We were sitting on our front porch in Brandywine Village on a perfectly clear day when we heard the loud explosion. We were shocked to learn that it came all the way from Elkton and was caused by lightening. The explosion was as loud as when a house on Washington Street less than a mile away blew up from a gas leak.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, September 06, 2007 at 08:45:42 (EDT)

Does anyone remember the Pan American Airline plane Flight #214 (a Boeing B-707) that, after being hit by lightning at 8:59PM, crashed in the field at the intersection of Delancy Road and Rt 40 (the current site of Williams Auto Mart) on December 8, 1963? The Cecil County Historical Society Website Click Here has a couple of photos AND a 3 minute sound clip of the Cecil County Control Center dispatching local and New Castle County fire departments to the scene...
Webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Thursday, September 06, 2007 at 06:44:19 (EDT)

here s site I found, shows a timeline of delaware, http://www.russpickett.com/history/detime.htm
Tom Brejwa <brejwa@mchsi.com>
ocean view, de USA - Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 16:32:36 (EDT)

Sept 5 "1956 Aaron, Louis, Martin, and Samuel Sloan opened the first Charcoal Pit Restaurant on Concord Pike in Wilmington. Featured were big thick milkshakes, home made soup, and 45-cent hamburgers.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, September 05, 2007 at 09:44:42 (EDT)

Sandy, your right, nothing matches up to Mack's! There is a "Mack's" on 202 just over the line, and while I haven't tried it yet, I would guess its in name only, hard to believe you could capture the ambiance of the boardwalk and the ocean breeze and carry it over to our area.
oldeschool55 <oldeschool55@yahoo.com>
wilm, de USA - Tuesday, September 04, 2007 at 06:34:07 (EDT)

People in the Rehoboth area rave about Grotto's Pizza. I think they are positively awful. Those people must have never had Mack's Pizza from Wildwood. They are the best ever. As kids we couldn't wait to go to Wildwood for Mack's Pizza. I hear that there is a Mack's somewhere around Rt 1 & 202. Anyone tried it yet? Let me know if it's as good as in Wildwood.
Sandy <bsconne@msn.com>
Bear, DE USA - Monday, September 03, 2007 at 20:30:17 (EDT)

found this statement in a search. According to the state's administrative code, no decorative stickers are allowed on buses. For decorative license plate tags, the state code dictates that "manufacturer, company name, dealer, or school logo may be displayed in the right-side plate location on the rear of the bus." Anything else, according to state Transportation Supervisor Ron Love, is off-limits.
Tom Brejwa <brejwa@mchsi.com>
ocean view, de USA - Monday, September 03, 2007 at 11:58:07 (EDT)

I just heard that Delaware school buses are not allowed to display the sticker of the American flag... anybody know whether that's true or not? If true, I'd say this country is in more trouble than I thought.
Bill Fisher <whfisheratearthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Monday, September 03, 2007 at 02:48:01 (EDT)

I enjoyed the chat about the old football stadiums. Baynard Stadium actually was built in 1921 Here's a link to the whole story of Brandywine Park. http://n5cta.com/Miscellaneous/News%20Archives/Baynard%20Stadium%20History.htm I think it fell into disrepair and was fixed up by 1956 when Sallies and other schools began playing there again.
Joe <xcjoe@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, September 03, 2007 at 00:27:20 (EDT)

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