Visitors Nostalgia & Memories

(Archive #6: March 2004 - May 2004)


Do any of you old-timers remember the parade Wilmington had honoring Delaware's Medal of Honor winner either during or after WWII? I believe his name was Connor or O'Connor. He was a graduate of St. Mary's school.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Monday, May 31, 2004 at 12:38:28 (EDT)


my mother Addie worked for Jack eckherd and she always told us how nice he and his parents were to her. I think that waas before WWII
marie rhodes
USA - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 22:14:53 (EDT)
Chris, I remember Fierro's cheese factory. They made ricotta in their basement as it was a row home. My father used to take us there and I remember the metal quart-sized containers of the ricotta. Their store/house was off of Lincoln Street I think.
Mario <melepera@aol.com>
Harrisonburg, VA USA - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 08:10:47 (EDT)
HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY and THANK YOU to all our Delaware veterans.
Connie
USA - Saturday, May 29, 2004 at 16:09:46 (EDT)
Hi i am a young man who stumbled upon your site by accident. While intrigued by these stories of Old Wilmington I can't share memories sadly. Was curious if anyone knows the barkers or the dohrings these were my grandparents they lived i believe around second and monroe i think. My grandfather was named Lee Barker he had several siblings, Tom Max Ralph Bernice My grandmother was Elizabeth Dohring she had A sister not sure of the name though. Pretty sure she went to Bayard. Know for a fact my grandfather worked at the cheese factory in Wilm (Fierros I think!) They moved to Edgemoor in the fifties. Anybody who knows them or has stories of these areas to share I would greatly appreciate it. Email me please!!!!!!!!!!!
Chris Barker <domon1178@hotmail.com>
Wilm, DE USA - Thursday, May 27, 2004 at 11:19:52 (EDT)
Vicky, you remembered the Burger King on Market St. I remember the soft roll subs at Banjos. A bunch of us use to take the bus to St. Helena's dances and after the dance take the bus to 4th & Franklin and get a soft roll sub (steak for me) from Banjo's. I use to hang at Rosie's on 4th & Franklin and at Andreoli's corner store at Conrad & Harrison. Great hangouts, great people. I also hung out at West End Park and I remember going to Canby pool, free in the mornings, 10 cents in the afternoon & evening, and 25 cents on Sundays. In order to swim in the 10 foot pool you had to swim the length back and forth before the lifeguards will let you in. Maidas drug store on Lancaster & Harrison had the best milk shakes and water ice, especially with the ice cream added in the water ice. I lived on South Harrison St., a block up from St. Hedwig's Church & school. Some of the neighborhood stores were: Henry's Market, Penny Pincher's, Old Lady Buttermilks, and Shotz's. Anybody remember them? Great times, great site.
Joe <sgtpepper212@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 21:01:46 (EDT)
Alfred Carlis Children's Shop The Little Heel Shop Greenwood Book Shop Feinberg's Furniture on Market St. Towne & Campus (Ladies Clothing) Fishers Ladies Shop on 9th St. Oppenheim & Collins in the Merchandise Mart DeCourcelle Shoe Store
Nancy M. Hill
USA - Tuesday, May 25, 2004 at 11:14:19 (EDT)
Vicky - Great job! You made a neighborhood, "Hillside", that I had never been to, come alive again for us all. And like you, I never knew that I had lived in the "Ninth Ward," (during my time in the city in the late 1940's and early 50's) until I saw it described that way here. Like Joni once sang, "You never know what you've got 'til it's 'gone.'"
Bob
Stamford, CT USA - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 20:47:02 (EDT)
Well since my last couple of postings I have learned something I never knew about the area I grew up in. I had asked if anyone knew the name of the area surrounding Franklin Street between Conrad and 3rd Streets. I found out it was known as "Hilltop". I found this out due to an article about "Hilltop" in the News Journal some time ago. I though I would add a few more of my memories. Not necessarily in any particular order. Swimming at Camby Pool for 10 cents. This was a treat funded by taking back those soda bottles for their 2 cent deposits. Going to the Wilmington Armory for a dance with Margaret Mansell. The entertainment there was Gary Lewis and the Playboys and Mitch Rider and the Detroit Wheels. Also finding out that Mitch Rider was staying at the Tour Inns Motel and calling there and Margaret and I talking to him on the phone. Margaret, remember this!!!. I believe Margaret also has a piece of his shirt, obtained by many when he let the crowd of screaming young ladies rip it off. Long walks to the Library in downtown Wilmington. Stopping by the Crockery Den, Levitts Jewerly store, Burger King, Kresgies 5 & 10 , Woolworths 5 & 10 (buying perfumed sented pens from both 5 and 10 cent stores), Greens 5 & 10 and the man out front who sold pencils from his wheel chair). The long walks back and occasional treat of a bus ride home. Playing on the rocks at West End Park. Bus rides for 10 cents with your student ID. Getting in trouble for being late (the buses ran often enough that you were told "you should have taken the earlier bus". Going to Carole Williams house. It had a beautiful Baby Grand Piano that just amazed me. Her mom was a very talented seamstress. Riding a bike with Carole, not being able to stop the bike on 6th street Hill and running it into the side of someone's steps to stop. Lucky me, not scratches, broken bones or anything. Playing with Barbie's, making their clothes. Going to Carole's to play with Barbie's, and envying all the clothes her mother made for her Barbies. Listening to records (45's) and talking about boys, fan clubs and walking to Brandywine Park with Carole and I think Leo. Going to Margaret's almost every day after school. Talking to boys on the phone and hanging up before her Mom came home. Watching Margaret buy everything she could find that had anything to do with the BEATLES. I dont think she has ever like any group more than the BEATLES. Growing up on Franklin Street. Playing wall ball, pitching baseball cards, playing marbles, hopscotch. Going to Mike's Store on Harrison and Conrad for penny candy, hand dipped ice cream at 10 cents a dip. Casper's store on Franklin at 2nd Street ( I think). Getting neopolitian ice cream squares on waffles (hard like the ice cones) at Store on 4th and Connell Streets. I had forgotten about them until I saw them at a Country Maid Store in University Plaza this weekend. Banjo's subs. My grandmother liked her subs on a soft roll and they sold them either on hard rolls or soft rolls. Drs David and Ethel Platt and Dr Sherman on 4th and Franklin and making house calls when someone was sick. Riccio's at 4th and Franklin Streets. I think everyone ran a store bill with them. Found out later that they stood for my grandparents when they married. Didnt know that growing up. Carnivals at St Paul's in the lot catty cornered from them. Going to Mary C I Williams from 2nd through 6th grade, being a "safety" on the doors in the morning and at the street to direct other students to cross to the park for lunch recess. Playing "relievio" and all the girls chasing Peter Luce to catch him first.Riding in those little cars on the back playground (sort of like safety town now). I guess it was the safety town of our day. We got to ride them on a pretend roadway that was painted on the ground. Remember the Nixon/Kennedy days and friends chosing sides on the playground and wearing political pins with our favorites. Smelling the odor from Allied Kid when all the windows were open, sometimes when they were closed. I remember my 1st teachter there (2nd grade) was Miss Jones. Easy to remember since it was my name too. Taking a large stack of baseball cards to school and someone taking them, never got them back. Learning early not to take those things to school. Teacher I remember from Mary C I Williams, Principal, Miss Kane; Librarian, Mrs Latta; Art Teacher, Mr Armstrong; Gym Teacher, Miss Hackendorn; (now Im getting older,lol, so some might be from Thomas F. Bayard). Teachers were Miss Fowler who became Mrs Eliadias (sp), Mrs Panadaro who I had for 4th & 5th and she taught us a spanish lullaby; Mr Allen and watching about John Glenn on tv in his classroom. Bible readings, lords prayer and salute to the flag along with a song, usually America the Beautiful or My Country Tis of Thee. Teddy Taylor (and his beautiful blonde curly hair) having to sit with the girls on his last couple of days of school because he was transferring to Lore School. All he kept saying to me was "tell them it is not funny". My times at Thomas F. Bayard. Playing volleyball and basket ball during lunch times against other classes. Slang books,coke dances after school, being in All City Chorus Concerts, Keeping a notes from boys. Gary and Michael. Got in lots of trouble with my Grandmother. The notes were usually to meet them somewhere. I would turn them down because we would be going to my Aunts for dinner. But I kept the notes. My grandmother thought that I met them. Boy did I get it. I just wanted to keep the notes. I think the notes are history. lol.Learned not to keep any more. lol The school bus accident on the way home from our 9th grade class trip. Mr Carfagno giving me his sweater because I was so cold after the accident. I ended up with fractured ribs. Letitia got a broken tooth,we lived just houses away. Spent lots of time at her house too while she watched her siblings. Remember 9th grade graduation and trying to get into a dress with my ribs strapped. Had Mr. Weigle for all 3 years. Lived next to Mary Pini. Played endless games of Parchese sometimes on homemade boards with buttons. Mary went to St Pauls School then moved before she went to high school, I think. Remember going to Maidias Drug Store and a place that sold Soft Ice Cream somewhere near there. Remember cutting through the Wilmington General Hosptial on the way home from school, sometimes we would be told not to cut through again. I remember Herbie the paper man, Jake the broom man, the hucksters, separating trash and putting cans out front and trash out back. The coal truck bring coal for our furnace. Walking to Lancaster Avenue and buy a tree for Christmas with my brothers an sisters and all of us carring it home. Trick or treat and those terrible plastic masked costumes that made you feel like you couldnt breathe under them. Probably why I have always made all the ones for my sons. Seeing fireworks from our back roof and going down town to see them too. Taking rides in my grandfathers Taxi. Also tomato pie that was at some little store on Lancaster Avenue that we passed on the way to Bayard every day. There was a hardware store on Lancaster Ave. and Franklin Street. too. Olga Morales and Carmen Gonzales teaching me some spanish. I actually learned to count to 10 before Carmen moved. Ending up in the same High Schools( DeLaWarr & William Penn) with about a dozen people I knew from my years in Wilmington. Some are Jean Mitchell, Tris Jablonski, Gary Wortz, Leo Hammerer, and graduating from DeLaWarr with people I went to 1st grade (Minquadale School) with even though I didnt go to school with the for the years in between. Sort of like a 1st grade reunion, Harry Candler, Gary Powell, & Doug Ford and probably many more I just cant remember from my first grade class. I had Mrs. Reed who also had my Dad. She told me many years later, after I graduated, just how ornery my dad reall was, she told me she didnt want me to know as a child. lol. I probably already knew.lol Im sure as time goes on I will remember more. I always do. Now Im going to email this site to some of those friends I have mentioned. Im sure they dont know about it. I came back across it while looking for something else in my favorties. I will be checking back in more now. This is a really good place to remember Wilmington and the way things were. Hope everyone enjoys my memories and if we went to school together or I have hit on a memory or you can fill in blanks, let me know. Take care
Vickie Jones Snyder <cooking0404@aol.com>
New Castle, De USA - Sunday, May 23, 2004 at 09:28:04 (EDT)
A friend of mine told be about this site. I was so happy she did. I grew up in the Talleyville area in the 60's-70's. Anyone from that area and time. I still live in the area, in fact I live only 2 blocks from my childhood home in Blue Rock Manor. I would love to hear from anyone. Lisa
Lisa Gates <lmg49@hotmail.com>
Talleyville, DE USA - Friday, May 21, 2004 at 14:33:18 (EDT)
Please add to the list of bakeries the T&C bakery that was located between Scott hand Lincoln Streets on 7th street.
Lou Calvarese, Sr. <Louie804@msn.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Friday, May 21, 2004 at 00:16:11 (EDT)
My apologies to the News Journal and to the readers of this column; Jack Eckerd's obit wasn't on the obit page of today's News Journal, but it was on the business page - a nice write-up with picture. Again, my apologies for mis-informing all.
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 21:20:51 (EDT)
Yep, and Pep Boys was at 10th & Tatnall. Bob, could you be thinking of the Copper Kettle, on 10th east of the Warner Theater?
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 19:46:07 (EDT)
Bob, the Eckerd store you remember was at 9th and Orange. The other locations within the city limits were at 513 Market and the 700 block of Market St.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 16:45:35 (EDT)
The NY TIMES had a prominent obit for Jack Eckerd, including a photo of him, in today's issue. Am I remembering correctly that the primary Eckerd drugstore in Wilmington was on the S. Side of 10th Street, just east of the Warner Theater? And that the Pep Boys store was just west of the Warner, where 10th Street bends suddenly to become Delaware Avenue? I can still see the caricatures of Manny, Moe and Jack clearly in my mind.
Bob
Stamford, CT USA - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 16:06:36 (EDT)
Nothing in the Wilmington paper yet, but an obit in the Philadelphia Inquirer this morning that Jack Eckerd (who founded the Eckerd Drug Store chain) died yesterday in Clearwater, FL., where he has been living for a number of years. He was 91. I'm sure that the Wilmington paper will get around to writing something one day (maybe); he was born in Wilmington, and lived here for many years.
Bruce <spyderxl@comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 15:20:49 (EDT)
Boy,this site is addictive, especially when you've lived in Wilmington all your life. Anyway - just thought of another thing that I have not seen here. Hospitals - Attached to the Wilmington General was a section called the Doris (sp?)Memorial. It was strictly for contagious cases (mostly kids). I know because I spent 2 weeks there at age 5 or6 with Scarlet Fever. No one, not even your mother or father were allowed in to see you. Fortunately I was in a ward next to a window and they would come and talk to me through the screen. Anything anyone gave you such as books, crayons, etc. were left at the hospital and burned when you went home. Could have been traumatic for some children. Dot
Dot Becker <dorothy.m.becker@dupont-dow.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 10:16:12 (EDT)
Bob Austin.....Thanks for that memory about my mom. I can just picture her. And Guy, how could I forget him. He was such a funny man and also very nice to us. That was when kids could sit at the bar, Guy would keep us occupied while mom finished up work
Linda
USA - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 10:40:44 (EDT)
A couple of movie houses I don't think I've seen mentioned: CineMart and the Edgemoor. CineMart is still on Governor Printz/Northeast Blvd. but has been closed for years. The Edgemoor has been torn down for years. Saw Never on Sunday at the Edgemoor with my husband when we were first married, about 40 years ago. At the time it was supposed to be an "R" rated movie. By today's standards, it was mild. Dot
Dot Becker <dorothy.m.becker>
New Castle, DE USA - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 07:28:57 (EDT)
I went to several Fraternity reunion gettogethers at Katie's back in the 1970's and 80's, and always enjoyed the good food and the ambiance there.
Bob
Stamford, CT USA - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 21:50:29 (EDT)
HI LINDA: Yes I remember your Mother (Helen) very well. we made Katies about every night during 55 & 56. Guy was the bartender then and your Mother would always drain the last drop of Bud into the glass before taking It away.
BOB AUSTIN
USA - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 21:27:32 (EDT)
Loved Katies Restaurant. Our parents took us there in the Fifties and there was always available parking on the street. I joined the Navy in 1967. In Autumn 1967 I returned to Wilmington with some Navy buddies. I took them to Katies. We were all under 21 but our military status must've carried some weight because they served all of us beer. Great spaghetti.
Larry Roszkowiak (Rush) <lroszkowiak@its.ucsf.edu>
San Francisco, CA USA - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 14:15:06 (EDT)
Bill....you are right, 6th and Scott, typed it wrong, and it was indeed a long time ago. I grew up on their food. If you went there a lot, you would recognize my mother. Everyone does, she was a fixture there.
Linda <lac1053@aol.com>
USA - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 13:36:00 (EDT)
Katie's was at 6th & Scott... and quite some time ago, I mentioned here that it was arguably the best spaghetti house in town. Loved it.
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 13:28:53 (EDT)
Under Resturants nothing is said about Katie's Resturant on 4th and Scott streets. My mother, Helen, worked there for over 25 years. The Fugolino's owned the returant and I can remember "Big Nick" as being the kindest man to us.
Linda (Krauss) Clark <lac1053@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 11:16:49 (EDT)
ROSE FABIAN FROM BROWN BOY WAS SHE A PIECE OF WORK NEVER DID LIKE HER OR HER ME NEVER GOT ABOVE A D FROM HER.
DAVE CAUFFMAN <CAUFFMANDS@AOL.COM>
WILM, DE USA - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 18:54:45 (EDT)
Bill/"Stix" - That's too easy. Try Google. Spent last Sat. evening in Newark with our mutual native Newark friend, trumpeter par excellence, and sometime poster here, Mario from Newark (long time listener, first time caller) and he wondered whatever happened to a fellow named Stevens who once played piano in bands and combos with you guys back in your salad days. Any thoughts on this?
Bob
Stamford, CT USA - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 13:18:45 (EDT)
Ok... here goes: I've always wondered what ever happened to the Blue Rocks and Phillies pitchers Curt Simmons and Robin Roberts after their baseball careers were over...
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 12:13:30 (EDT)
Bob, you are so right. That was a fun project. Maybe we could start a "What Ever Happened To________?". Or, start our own internet detective agency!
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 09:24:32 (EDT)
Pat, what we have to do is generate a project here, like tracking down another "missing" Wilmington person like Lois Alava Walker. That was a neat project, even though the day we pinpointed her location, she was packing it in permanently for Florida. The Miss Delaware Pageant folks kindly sent me a really nice souvenir program from a couple of years ago for my efforts. But it's you guys (and you all know who you are), in California, Florida, and in Wilmington, who really deserve the accolade. All I did was tie the strings together.
Bob Wilson <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Stamford, CT USA - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 22:24:05 (EDT)
Hey, people, are we stuck? What's happening?
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 18:39:02 (EDT)
You talk about your teachers, and maybe even the three tier system they want to invoke now. I don't know who they're trying to get off the hook with that one.You have teachers at least then, just like doctors, who think they belong on a pedestal, and then there are those who do belong there. Then you have, well I really don't know what to call them. One who comes to mind for me was Rose Fabian, I remember one guy,
wayne
USA - Thursday, May 13, 2004 at 11:36:01 (EDT)
Mary Klund, now there is a name to evoke some memories. Miss Klund was my 9th grade Art Teacher at PS (Class of 1970), so this was in 1967. I was doing great in art at that time even though I couldn't draw a straight line with a ruler or a curve with a compass. Then came the day that I asked her if she remembered my mother, Phyllis Hynson, Class of 1950. Oh yeah, did she remember her. Boy did my grades go down hill after that. Finally finished 9th grade with a D in Art. I moved away in 1971, and have only been back twice to visit. Much is the same but different at the same time. I remember living near 36th and Washington and tooling down the streets in my '64 Cutlass - LOTS of room on both sides - yeah, right. Imagine my surprise when I came back and saw how crowded the streets really are/were. Hung out a Matson Run, worked there for a while. Love this site.
Phil Culver <jpculver33@msn.com>
Layton, UT USA - Wednesday, May 12, 2004 at 17:42:43 (EDT)
Art, I still live here, or at least very close by, at my age I couldn't bring myself to change. I have changed in as much as I now live in a light keepers house south of New Castle off route 9. For you real old timers, our property ajoins the old Deemers beach swimming pool. It has all the conviences of being in the city (now that we all have cars) we're only 2 miles south of New Castle. The property belonged to my In-laws who purchased it from the US Government in the early 50s. The Lighthouse, in the center of the property (kind of like the hole in the doughnut) still belongs to the government, but we own the rest around it (about 5 acres). Our son,daughter in-law, and two grandchildren live here with us, making 5 generations of my wife's family who have lived here. Her maiden name was Cross and she went to WM. Penn Class of 62. We live right on the river, and the light on our property serves to guide the ships up river as they come around the northern end of Pea Patch Island and head up river toward New Castle and on to Philadelphia. Unlike city living, I couldn't give you an address and have you stop in. We have no address (you should see that fight at motor vehicle every time I go in) but it is so easy to find. It's actually easier to find than a place in the city, the directions are so simple. We actually have an outhouse for those of you who remember those, I'm assuming it is still functional, but haven't used it in years.We have the best of all worlds, city living in a non-development country like atmosphere. I couldn't ask for a better place to end my days.
Wayne
USA - Monday, May 10, 2004 at 19:54:30 (EDT)
Wayne - Don't know if you still live around or visit Wilmington, but thought you might like to know that the original houses at Eastlake have been demolished and new rental and "for sale" houses are being built.
Art
DE USA - Monday, May 10, 2004 at 13:36:29 (EDT)
The Miss Klund referred to a few entries back was Mary Klund. After retiring she became somewhat reclusive. She lived in the area near Prices Corner that was to be taken for construction of the by-pass. She was offered a sum for her house, reasonable, too, I think, but she could not bring herself to move, and so stayed there closer to the highway than could have been comfortable. She died a few years ago. The house was chock full of things she and her mother and aunt collected. Some of it was the jewelry she loved so much, but other things were items she treasured because they showed artistic talent, like fine embroidery. After she went to the nursing home (she died shortly afterwards) someone must have had their hands full emptying out that house.
richard
USA - Sunday, May 09, 2004 at 22:17:23 (EDT)
Thanks, Richard, for the info on Dr. Stern--yes, it was Oscar Stern who delivered me in 1952, at Delaware Division (which made an appearance on "Joan of Arcadia" recently, btw :)). It's so nice to read the comments on here, especially of the older memories of Wilmington because so much has changed, particularly the landscape after I-95 was started! I'm still looking for anyone who went to school w/me: Shortledge in 63-64 (6th grade), Warner 64-65 (7th grade), Mt. Pleasant 65-66 (8th grade & 1 month of 9th grade); in October 66 we moved to Milford DE, and I lost contact with nearly everyone I was in school with then. At Warner, I was in the 7-9 section; at Mt. Pleasant, it was 8-6 section; I'm afraid my memory is not good for much else, but would recall some names if prompted by others! thanks in advance, and thanks again to Harry for keeping this website together so well! Hope you continue to get many more memories posted here. :)
Ruth <zavijah@earthlink.net>
Hyattsville, MD USA - Sunday, May 09, 2004 at 04:09:08 (EDT)
I accept your apology Wayne. You didn`t think an old woman who didn`t even finish highschool because of a mean teacher had the guts to admit her age My grandmother carried bricks in her apron when they were building their house on 18th St just above the park. She claimed she was born on the banks of the CRICK
mickey
tx USA - Saturday, May 08, 2004 at 11:10:25 (EDT)
Oh, that just brought back a rush of memories, the call going out up and down the street: rag man, rag man. Thanks, Wayne.
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Saturday, May 08, 2004 at 09:42:17 (EDT)
Mickey, Please don't be offended or misunderstand, my sense of humor is obviously not coming through to you. I meant no harm, and if you took it wrong please accept my apology. I was trying to state that you were looking for the oldest person within this group, when in fact that person is probably you. I am in fact, very greatful that you are willing and able to get on here and share with those of us younger, your knowledge and memories of Wilmington. My aunt Irene (Sweeney) Burris is about your age and would have shared some of the same experiences as you. I get some information from her, but a lot of it I remember on my own. I don't know if she has a computer or not, but if she does I'll be sure she gets in contact with you. She grew up around 9th St. near Madison and later Van Buren. I lived near there on Morrow St. during WWII and remember my Grandmother was going to give me to the rag man if I didn't eat my breakfast (I could hear him calling from my high chair) down the back alley way. My aunt Irene and uncle (Louis)lived in Eastlake right after WWII where I lived with them for a short time. I do remember seeing sailboat races in Prices Run pool on Sunday mornings on my way to church. That was an enormous pool, but when you're little everything looks larger. Once again Mickey I do hope you were not offended, and once again to all you Mothers, Happy Mothers Day and may you enjoy it with your families, Wayne
Wayne
USA - Saturday, May 08, 2004 at 00:29:42 (EDT)
Nickname Mickey. Check birth records for July 10, 1018 Born at 509 Grant Ave. I am not suckering anyone
Charlotte Myrtle Heathcote <mickey710@webtv.net>
USA - Friday, May 07, 2004 at 21:43:02 (EDT)
I am the mickey that posted that, I was born at 509 Grant Ave. July 10th 1918 Almost 86 yrs ago. Check birth records, Charlotte, Myrtle Heathcote
mickey <micket710@webtv>
TX USA - Friday, May 07, 2004 at 21:36:35 (EDT)
Now that Delaware is finally getting around to appropriating the money for a veterans' home,(the LAST state to do so since Alaska's and Hawaii's are under construction)does anyone remember an "old soldiers' home" that was located on Rt. 13 in Minquadale? I think I remember driving by with my parents in the 50's and seeing men sitting on a porch in rocking chairs and my mother commenting that some of those old soldiers fought in the Civil War.
Marty Jones <mjjjj78@aol.com>
Rehoboth Beach, DE - Friday, May 07, 2004 at 12:34:35 (EDT)
I don't know where any other of the Sun Ray Drug Stores were, but there was one, as an original tenant, at the Wilmington Merchandise Mart. This, too, was in the 50's, I believe the Merchandise Mart opened in 1954. The Sun Ray was all the way at the south end of the Mart. By the way, there was an Eckerd's Drug Store at the Mart also, near the north end, next to the Acme Market. As far as I remember, Jack Eckerd retired to the Clearwater, FL. area many years ago.
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Friday, May 07, 2004 at 12:13:58 (EDT)
Connie, I could be wrong, I'm finding out more and more I'm at least off a tad after getting on here, but I thought his middle name was Martine. I know he showed great reverence to our war heros. A new picture of him was unvieled while I was attending school there. Later a large "X" was slshed across the middle of it. They had it repaired but you could allways see where it had been cut. I went there from 53 till 56 and while I was there another event happened that changed a lot of us. Two good friends after school, were playing in an abandonded building as the story was told to us officially, when one threw a 2x4 down a flight of stairs to scare the other. It hit the secondboy in the head and killed him. The boy who threw the board had some serious problems afterward,(and why wouldn't he)He tried to jump from one of the bridges into the Brandywine. I don't know what ever happened to him. However I do know they did not bring in a herd of consolers as they do today, every time someone stubs his toe. The other thing I would like to address at this time is the setup we all fell for from Mickey in like " Gee I wonder who the oldest person is on this guestbook" This from a person who by their own admission is older than dirt itself. Did we all get sucker punched on that one Mickey? I guess the best I could come up with is who may be closest to median age - Ha Ha. One more item and I'll get down off my soap box for today - Sun Ray Drug stores - the discount houses of yesteryear dotted Market Street. I know one was at the corner of 5th and Market and I think another at the corner of 8th and Market. Have a great weekend wherever you are, and remember your Mother (wherever she may be) on HER Special Day, Wayne
Wayne
USA - Friday, May 07, 2004 at 11:29:56 (EDT)
By the way, re. the Brandywine - I have an ADC New Castle County Street Map Book which id's the Brandywine as "Brandywine Creek."
Connie
USA - Friday, May 07, 2004 at 09:30:57 (EDT)
Does anyone remember the principal of Warner Junior High School? His name was Frank Martin Heal, a fantastic man, and he brought his dog to school everyday.I wonder if anyone remembers the dog's name?
Connie
USA - Friday, May 07, 2004 at 09:28:29 (EDT)
For Bill - there were three Eckerd's Drug Stores within the city proper. There was one at 513 Market, one between 7th and 8th on Market and the one at 9th and Orange. I believe the chain originated in Erie, PA by the senior Mr. Eckerd. Mr. Eckerd's son, Jack, founded the Wilmington stores. I know this bit of history because one of my first jobs in high school was helping the pharmacist at the 513 store. This was in the early 50's. Now, I read that the chain is being sold to CVS and many of the stores nationwide will be closed.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Friday, May 07, 2004 at 07:55:43 (EDT)
Something that's been bothering me for some time now- as I remember it, the Eckerds' Drug Store at 9th & Orange was the only one of its name in the 40's and 50's. Did the nationwide chain of Eckerds' Drug Stores spring up from that one store, or are they completely different? Or was there more than one Eckerds' that I just don't remember?
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Friday, May 07, 2004 at 02:17:59 (EDT)
Got ya beat by 22 years. Born in the Flat with Dr Beck as doctor
mickey
tx USA - Friday, May 07, 2004 at 00:13:36 (EDT)
Hi Mickey - interesting question, especially with so many old memories on board! I'll go first - I was 64 in April.
Patty
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, May 06, 2004 at 22:36:58 (EDT)
Apropos of nothing, only that I just remembered this, The Principal at PS DuPont HS in the early 1950's was Sam (Samuel P.) Maroney, who was of a seemingly affable and approachable nature to the student body. He had one "dressing" characteristic that I'll always remember, because I don't think I've ever seen another man do this on a regular basis...He favored wearing sweater vests or pullovers, ubder his jacket, with a dress shirt and a tie. But he always wore the tie OUTSIDE the vest. Of course that was back in the days when men's neckties were bold and florid, to say the least. So I suppose he figured, with such bright patterns, why should he wear it hidden under his sweater? The other faculty member I remember then at PS who always dressed rather flamboyantly was Miss Klund, the art teacher. (I think her family were early theater operators in Wilmington.) Most notably, she wore what seemed like scores of bangles and bracelets on either arm, every day. Maroney's ties and Klund's bracelets added some much needed "spark" to the school of the "Dynamiters", whose colors were a rather somber blue and gray.
Bob Wilson <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Stamford, CT USA - Thursday, May 06, 2004 at 19:30:38 (EDT)
I would like to know how old is the oldest person writing here ?
charlotte pulley <mickey710@webtv. net>
TX USA - Thursday, May 06, 2004 at 19:26:31 (EDT)
How about the steak sandwiches? And how about south Wilmington? Best steaks was a toss up between Cassapula's in Elsmere and Smitty's on Centre Road near Prices Corner. (Marie Cassapula was prettier than Smitty.)
Larry Roszkowiak (Rush) <lroszkowiak@its.ucsf.edu>
San Francisco, CA USA - Thursday, May 06, 2004 at 12:10:32 (EDT)
To those who remember the best subs in North Wilmington, years ago, I just want to let you know that I watched the destruction of the old Penny Hll Sub Shop building Tuesday. I didn't have a chance to get my camera and take any pictures; I was just riding by and noticed the demolition team there, tearing the building down. They used to have the best subs, and later on, one of the best steak sandwiches too (Jann's had THE best steak sandwich). Penny Hill Sub Shop is committed to memory only now. :(
Bruce <spyderxl@comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Thursday, May 06, 2004 at 10:37:21 (EDT)
Re: Josephine Gardens, it is indeed on the other side of Van Buren St. Bridge from the Jasper Crane Rose Garden. Here's the history, courtesy of Del. State Parks, in a wonderful little brochure called A Walking Tour of the Architecture and Monuments of Brandywine Park: "In 1930, J. Ernest Smith donated these flowering cherry trees to the city, fulfilling a wish of his wife, Josephine Tatnall Smith. Sadly, Josephine died in Jan. 1931, most likely never having seen the trees in bloom. Smith dedicated this beautiful fountain to her memory in 1933..." (The park office tel. is 302-577-7020. They might be able to mail a copy of it, if anyone's interested.)
Nancy Horisk-Sherr <nhsherr@dca.net>
Hockessin, DE USA - Thursday, May 06, 2004 at 09:25:10 (EDT)
Union Pharmacy was at the corner of 4th and Union from about 1900 til sometime in the 1960s. It was originally operated by Harry Kiger, who at one time was president of the Delaware Pharmaceutical Society. His nephew Carvel Kiger enlisted several days after Pearl Harbor and by that time Harry Kiger was getting feeble, so sometime during the war years it was sold to Tom Davis, whose wife was named Winnie. They later had a drug store/soda fountain in New Castle, across from the Courthouse, on the corner. It was a frumpy antiques store the last time I walked by. Tom Davis sold the store at 4th and Union to someone else and for some time it kept the name, but it was not operated by the Kigers after about 1943. When Carvel Kiger returned from the Pacific theatre of operations about 1946 or '47--after service at Okinawa and Iwo Jimo, among other places-- he bought Alby Bunin's drug store at 1713 West Fourth Street, midway between DuPont and Scott and about two doors down from Sons of Columbus Hall. He operated the pharmacy until his death in 1970. It was sold about a year later and the new owner kept the name for some time, but the nature of the business shifted drastically from what it was when the Kigers owned it. The Kigers over two generations had a pharmacy in Wilmington from roughly the 1890s until July, 1971. During those years some of the well liked and respected colleagues were Capeaus, Danforths, Brittinghams and later stores such as Latin American Drug Co., on Union about 6th, which was operated by Martha DeBartolomeis, a pharmacist who was a very fine lady, and the same can be said for her sister Roccina DeBartolomeis Leoncavallo, also a pharmacist. Another pharmacy, one that turned into a patent medicine store, was Orlick's, about 4th and Franklin. Mrs. Orlick ran it after the death of her husband, the pharmacist, and managed to support herself and her son and to get him through college and medical school. She eventually decided to get rid of the prescription line and found life was much easier and more profitable without it because she didn't have to pay a relief pharmacist or worry that he might not come to work after he promised he would, a critical and frequent problem for families operating a drug store when there was no longer a family member who was a licensed pharmacist. Harry Ivan Darr (Lancaster and Union) was also in that general area of town. Some of the doctors in the area were characters. Dr. Taylor's voice was unmistakeable because when he called in a prescription, he sang his name with a lilt: "Dr. Harry Taylor calling". It was always the same greeting. Dr. Lumley was always gracious. A doctor to the Hispanic community was Victor Nah, who was very genteel. He was educated in his native Spain. Dr. Chryznowski was a fine doctor and of course there was Morris Harwitz. If you knew him, I need say more. Many people mispronounced his name as "Horowitz", but I do not recall that he was musical. A frustrated standup comic doing shtik is more like it. Dr. Wagner was the kind of doctor--pediatrician--who made you feel better as soon as he walked in the room. His eminent colleague was Mag Handy. They often referred patients to Morry Peirson (William Morris Peirson), an EENT surgeon, who would start operating to remove tonsils at Wilmington General Hospital about 5 a.m. The OBGYN referred to in some other comments was Oscar Stern, who practiced until the 1970s if not a little later. He is survived by a lovely wife and two wonderful daughters. There were many good people back then who are fondly missed.
richard <richardcarvel@msn.com>
wilmington, de USA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 23:25:06 (EDT)
One last thing from me about Texas and gardens. In 1959, I had the chance to see the Japanese sunken gardens in Brakenridge Park in San Antonio. Although I was only 17 at the time it was truly a beautiful site, one I would like to see again, but am sure I never will.
Wayne
USA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 23:12:29 (EDT)
Oh, and that's Hidalgo, not hidigo. Gotcha :)
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 21:32:47 (EDT)
Hi Bob, McAllen center MAY BE 13 miles, but the town, for all intents and purposes, is on the Rio Grande River. And, I believe, once you leave town, the international bridge is 7 miles from town (limits). Been there, done that, many times. Smart? Ain't none of us smart here - hell, we call a creek a crick. :)
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 21:30:34 (EDT)
Hi Nancy, the organization you speak of has been mentioned here before, and I think a link has been added to the main page, somewhere, to that site; if not, Harry will soon add a link. Thanks for the info.
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 21:21:56 (EDT)
BRUCE, sorry about that but McAllen is 13 miles from the Rio Grande, the town of Hidigo would be the crossing to Reynosa. I was only trying to set things straight. not trying to be smart,
BOB <bobaus1@sbcglobal.net>
NEW BRAUNFELS, TX USA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 21:19:46 (EDT)
Me wrong. The rose garden was on the other side of Van Buren St. from the Josephine Fountain and the gardens there - they were not the Josephine gardens around the fountain. Don't you remember the beautiful rose gardens on the other side of the street (west side of the street and bridge)? I think the rose garden is still there, but I haven't checked recently.
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 21:19:13 (EDT)
It was the Josephine Fountain in 'whatever she said' gardens. :):)
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 21:16:28 (EDT)
Now see, I guess for some reason or another we all know things by different names. I remember the first date I was on with my high school sweetheart, we wound up after riding around with friends at those very same gardens, however,I thought their name was the Josephine Gardens. No I wasn't too wrapped up in her at the time, I really didn't even notice her, she just kind of forced her way into the seat along side of me. Ha that began a beautiful 3 year relationship, but that's another story for another channel.
Wayne
USA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 21:04:52 (EDT)
A note to Bob Austin: you need a refresher in geography; once you get out of the flatlands around San Antonio and down to south Texas, you'll find that the Rio Grande River forms the WHOLE southern border of Texas, of which McAllen is a part, with an international bridge to Mexico (Reynosa, to be specific) just south of the city. How about that for some local information - all the way from Wilmington?
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 20:35:32 (EDT)
I've enjoyed the commentary on this site and passed along the URL to my old man (c. 1942) who grew up in Wilmington. The remembrances help put into perspective what is now, but once was, so that it's not forgotten, in Wilmington. I'd like to share with you all an organization called Friends of Wilmington Parks, if you haven't already heard of it. Its mission is to restore some of the neglected treasures in the city's parks. Its latest project is a renovation of the Jasper Crane rose garden by the Van Buren St. bridge near the zoo. It's going to be BEAUTIFUL when roses begin to bloom! Visit www.friendsofwilmingtonparks.org. Oh, and FYI, Rockford Tower will be open this weekend during the Wilm. Flower Market (May 6-8).
Nancy Horisk-Sherr <nhsherr@dca.net>
Hockessin, DE USA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 20:14:32 (EDT)
Just a note the river in San Antonio, Tx is the San Antonio river not the Rio Grande, and the Rio Grande does not flow at McAllen, Tx. The main river that floods in the San Antonio area is the Guadalupe. It has flooded twice in the last three years claiming over 500 homes. Just some local infro.
BOB AUSTIN <bobaus1@sbcglobal>
NEW BRAUNFELS, TX USA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 19:44:18 (EDT)
The race still runs along the Brandywine, between it and South Park Drive. The race feeds the Wilmington Water Works there at 16th St. at Market, hard by the bridge.
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 16:35:03 (EDT)
I've seen the wild Rio Grande at McAllen, TX, and the wild Brandywine from Brown Voc., and from Bancroft Mills, when I used to work there. When there's heavy rains upstream, the Brandywine can and has gotten up to street level on Market St. bridge, I've seen it, too. The tit-tat about what to call the Brandywine is a name game we have been playing off and on for a few months Wayne, that's all it is: creek, crick, river, stream, etc. I'm sure everyone knows and remembers the power that can be unleashed when floods come. Remember when they used to have the kayak races from the dam there, by the zoo, down to the Market St. bridge? Sometimes, there wasn't enough water in the Brandywine to hold the races; other times, the kayakers took their lives in their hands trying to follow the course (poles hanging down from wires stretched over the (crick, river, creek), due to the rushing current. :)
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 16:31:05 (EDT)
I always knew it as the "crick" in fact the old families that lived up by the DuPont yards were called "crickers". If you remember the "race" used to run alongside of the Brandywine.
Harry Brand <salliesbrand@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 16:30:24 (EDT)
Well it's for sure none of you have been to San Antonio Texas and seen the Rio Grande. None of you has sat in class at the old Brown Voc. H.S. after a major storm, and watched the raging torrents of that calm little stream go by and wonder if the Market Street bridge would be able to hold. That is not an exageration, but fact, I saw that with my own eyes. No matter what you call it, I remember each and every year, someone lost a child up around the Bancroft Mills or somewhere close by where they used to swim. It is not something to play with, and can fool you at every twist and turn.
Wayne <twntydasys@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 11:41:53 (EDT)
Re; "The Brandywine." We always called it a creek. In my mind, a river is something wide and deep like the Delaware. The Brandywine was a stream so shallow in places that rocks were exposed and kids walked from one side to the other on some days.
Connie
USA - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 09:33:30 (EDT)
Funny but my dictionary must also be wrong, it seems to think if it's not a river it must be a "creek". Only locals say "crik" and "DewPonts". This from a local who has lernt betterer, even after 62+ years hearabouts. P.S. Wilmingtonians still get their wooter from the Brandywine, no matter what you want to call it.
Wayne <twntydasys@aol.com>
USA - Tuesday, May 04, 2004 at 15:58:21 (EDT)
Picky-picky, but for all my 75 plus years, and what my Daddy taught me, those come lately map makers are wrong - it's the Brandywine "Crick"
Bob Veazey
Wilmington, DE USA - Tuesday, May 04, 2004 at 13:43:14 (EDT)
Delmar T VanSice originally sold Indian Motocycles(correct spelling) He then branched out into several lines including Ducatti, Zundapp, Yamaha and others. I still have in my possession a D.T VanSice tee-shirt and several Indian Motorcycle News magazines.
Dave Ziegler <dziegler3@comcast.net>
Newark, De USA - Monday, May 03, 2004 at 17:41:26 (EDT)
Excuse my error, it was I-295 and New Castle Ave, not I-195, where Mike's Famous Harleys is.
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Monday, May 03, 2004 at 11:40:42 (EDT)
Pat & Wayne, Yes, it was me that said it was a real estate offie, and I told Pat I thought it was a dance studio in earlier days, and she says she remembers it as such. The storage facility was and still is "Security Storage", as Pat remembers. Wayne, you're off a little about the motorcycle place; it was Van Sice - I forget his father's name, who had it first, but Delmer (Bud) had it until it's (the stores) demise. Bud then went to work for Honda East as a customer liason. I don't think Van Sice ever sold Harleys, I know they sold Yamaha's, as I bought two of them there. Mike's Harley's was on Gov. Printz, above Vandever Ave., before moving to I-195 at New Castle Ave. Bob Wilson wrote to me and admitted he was off a little on his streets in the area, he said he should have looked at the map first, before writing. Oh, and it's South Park Drive and North Park Drive. I used to walk back and forth to Brown from Hillcrest most every morning, so remember a lot about the area. Hehe, what a day; thanks to all for getting these places in the right places. :)
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Monday, May 03, 2004 at 11:38:37 (EDT)
Yes, guys, you are correct. That three-story building with the bay window at the corner of 14th and Market next to Robert Hall was indeed the dance studio and later real estate/insurance agency. At the corner of 15th and King across from the "wooterworks" was Security Storage back in the 40's. Perhaps it became Lofland in later years. Thanks for the Mother's Day wishes.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Monday, May 03, 2004 at 10:54:14 (EDT)
Bruce, I have some information here which may help you out: Anyone with a 1959 year book can resolve all of this crap about Robert Hall. It was directly across the street from Brown as seen on page 15, but did not reach the north east corner. There was as someone said, a real estate agent there. They had a bay window and kept pictures of current properties for sale in that window. The 1959 year book for some reason had pictures of downtown Wilmington and especially Market St. For the guy who thought the Brandywine "crik" was at 14th st. he must have fallen in, because he's all wet. It was and still is located between the upper and lower Park Drives, and is in fact the Brandywine River. The Lower Park drive is (away from 14th) just above or below depending on your point of view, 16th street which is the location of the water works which draws water from the Brandywine two full blocks from 14th street. As to the Harley dealer, he was the predecessor of Mikes Famous and was located there on 15th street between Market and King up until the time he moved just a few years back to his new location where HoJo's was, entering the Delaware Memorial Bridge toll area. Beyond that I belive on 15th below King was a large moving and Storage Co. (maybe Lofland) Ray Morris "59" could tell you his Dad worked there and used to bring us to school. Hope this helped out a little Bruce, and Happy Mothers Day to all you Ladies out there, Wayne
Wayne <Twntydasys@aol.com>
USA - Monday, May 03, 2004 at 00:14:35 (EDT)
Pat, there was a storefront before Robert Hall, going from 14th St. North on Market. I think it was an insurance agency in the late 50's, when I was going to Brown, but I kinda remember a dance studio (or something similar) there before that. It was a 3 story building, and I think the dance studio occupied the first and second floors. Does that sound familiar?
Bruce <spyderxl@comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Sunday, May 02, 2004 at 21:43:59 (EDT)
Does anyone remember a dance studio at the corner of either 13th or 14th and Market Sts. run by Elaine Stein and Helen Aschenbach? I remember taking tap dancing lessons there in the late 40's. I do believe it was next to the Robert Hall store at 14th and Market. It was on the east side of Market St.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Sunday, May 02, 2004 at 20:59:48 (EDT)
Joe, how about Mrs. Eberhart, Miss Una Curtis, and you mentioned the chicken farmer - Teddy M. Remember "Smoke Alley", the stairwell where, if you were over the line, Mr. Hollingsworth would just push everyone down the steps, and you all ended-up in a pile at the bottom? (they can't do things like that anymore). How about the "Little Peoples Budget Market" at, I guess it was Winchester and Shipley Sts, where they had every kind of candy you could think of? Haha, what memories....
Bruce <spyderxl@comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Sunday, May 02, 2004 at 10:33:11 (EDT)
Charlotte Pulley: (SORRY - FIRST SUBMISSION DIDN'T ALL GO THROUGH) - I grew up in Little Italy - Went to St.Thomas School, St. Anthony's Church, etc. Graduated from St. Thomas in 53 (the old school, which is now the gym)...is that "old timer" enough for you? I'm familiar with almost everything you've written about Little Italy. Patty : )
Patty <pattywerk@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, May 02, 2004 at 09:24:10 (EDT)
Charlotte Pulley: I grew up in Little Italy - Went to St.Thomas School, St. Anthony's Church, etc. Graduated from St. Thomas in 53 (the old school, which is now the gym)...is that
Patty <pattywerk@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, May 02, 2004 at 09:23:00 (EDT)
Bruce, I went to Browns. Remember Mr.Hollingsworth, Miss Fabian, or "Keep that Fact In Mind" Mr. Mathias? Stores, how about John's Pizza at the corner of Fifth & Market? Burger King in the 800 block of Market? How about the 3 stairways in Brown's? One for up, one for down, and one for both directions. I remember driving to school and having a hard time finding a parking space. Usually got lucky on Winchester Street or down on West Street. Couple of times I had to park across the Market Street Bridge. Great school though.
Joe <sgtpepper212>
Wilmington, DE USA - Saturday, May 01, 2004 at 20:52:16 (EDT)
do any of you folks remember abes tailor shop on 8th between madison and monroe.use to be able to buy mens suits for about 30 dollars. but you had to negosiate
bill rogers <brogers@delanet.com>
wilmington, de USA - Saturday, May 01, 2004 at 20:46:45 (EDT)
With everyone mentioning Doctors I'm surprised I haven't seen anyone mention Dr. A.J.Gross. He had his own Hospital on West Street around 7TH or 8TH. Had my tonsils removed there. And speaking of house calls, He delivered me on the second floor of our home at 836 Bennett street in 1934 for which my Father painted several rooms in that Hospital. He also had a brother E.R. Gross who I called the pimple Doctor, he was a dermotologist(spelling). And for Bruce, I certainly do remember Dr. Walwork by the Warner movie house.
Ray Jubb <golfopera@aol.com>
Wil., De USA - Saturday, May 01, 2004 at 17:40:06 (EDT)
Where's my Brown Voc. alumni friends? I need help here with school and area store locations. :)
Bruce <spyderxl@comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Saturday, May 01, 2004 at 11:37:05 (EDT)
Not to be nit-picky, but Robert Hall was near the SOUTHEAST corner of 13th and Market. At the corner itself was an Indian or Harley "hog" motorcycle place. The Brandywine Crick was, and still is, at the Northest corner of 14th and Market, hard by the bridge. I once bought a dark blue suit at Robert Hall when I was a freshman at UDel. I think I (or my father) paid $24.95 for it. It fit me perfectly, and lasted me through at least seven wearings.
Bob Wilson <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Stamford, CT USA - Saturday, May 01, 2004 at 07:54:27 (EDT)
thanks gang
bill rogers <brogers@delanet.com>
wilm , de USA - Friday, April 30, 2004 at 20:04:01 (EDT)
My brother, Eddie, was the box boy at Robert Hall in Wilmingotn in 1963.
Larry Roszkowiak (Rush) <lroszkowiak@its.ucsf.edu>
San Francisco, CA USA - Friday, April 30, 2004 at 16:27:23 (EDT)
Robert Hall was on the northeast corner of 14th & Market sts.
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 19:39:05 (EDT)
Bill - are you thinking about Robert Hall across from Brown Vocational School (13th and Market)? They sold men's, women's and childrens. We always bought our family's coats there.
Connie
USA - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 18:57:08 (EDT)
what was the name of the mens clothing store located at thirteenth and market st
bill rogers <brogers@delanet.com>
wilm, de USA - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 15:33:56 (EDT)
Re:Doctors making house calls; my children's pediatrician, Dr. Rosenbaum made house calls into the late '60s. So did Dr. Resnick, my husbands's doctor. Dot
Dot Becker <dorothy.m.becker@dupont-dow.com>
USA - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 11:11:26 (EDT)
Re house calls...Dr.Di Cecco from Penna. Ave & Greenhill made house calls into the mid 50's. No one has mentioned Dr. Russo on 4th St. by Lincoln. I think he was there from the beginning of time. There was a dentist on Lancaster Ave. by Woodlawn, but can't remember his name. Kiger's (as we called it) on 4th & Union was great - I lived across the street from it for some time & we always went there for chocolate or cherry sodas or sundaes. Fantastic site - I've been re-visiting it almost since it was started.
Patty
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, April 28, 2004 at 18:56:57 (EDT)
I don't remember Dr. Klein, the dentist, being across from North Hills Cleaner on the Phila. Pike. In the 50's & 60's, (maybe late 40's too), he was directly across the pike from Brown's Drug Store. I remember Dr. Allen Wooden and Dr. Hines (both in the Bellefonte area) making house calls in the 50's, and maybe even into the 60's. My family Dr. was Dr. Carl, in New Castle, so we never asked him to come to our house on Penny Hill (don't know why we had a Dr. so far away???).
Bruce
Wilmiington, USA - Wednesday, April 28, 2004 at 10:42:36 (EDT)
Dr. Norwood Voss was our family doctor. He made housecalls to our home as late as 1949. We moved from Tatnall St. after that and I don't remember his coming to our apartment on Market St. I do remember Josephine Leggio, my father's barber coming to both places to cut his hair. (My Dad was confined to a wheelchair). Also, my mother had her groceries delivered from Haldas Market when we lived on Philadelphia Pike.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Wednesday, April 28, 2004 at 08:47:40 (EDT)
Re doctor's house calls - Doctor Sortman made a house call to us on Christmas day in the mid 50s.
Connie
USA - Wednesday, April 28, 2004 at 08:15:32 (EDT)
A question for the group: what is the last year that you remember a doctor making a house call to your house? I can remember a Dr. Pennington coming to our house in Edgemoor Terrace; we moved there in June of 1950, and the visit was probably in about 1952 or 1953.
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Wednesday, April 28, 2004 at 02:08:30 (EDT)
Yes, it was Creston Place. And yes again it was Dr. Butler on Washington Street. He was a cousin of mine. Pat I went to Dr. Bellanca and could not wait to go to another dentist which was Dr. Klein on the Phila. Pike across from North Hill Cleaners. Another Dr. around town was Dr. Reardon on 29th Street who was a gen'l practicioner before he became a eye,ear and nose Dr. I will say Pat that Dr. Shames was also one who did not believe in giving you a shot before he worked on your teeth. Didn't Dr. McGee have a office around 31st and Washington St?
Harry Brand <salliesbrand@aol.com>
Wilm, De USA - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 19:31:07 (EDT)
I came across this site by accident, really happy I did, and want to share my memories of growing up in Wilmington. I was born in 1948 at the Delaware Memorial Hospital. I lived in Edgemore Gardens off of Governor Printz until I was 5. I attended Corliss Nursery School. We moved to the 700 block of West 29th Street in 1953 and I attended Shortlidge Elementary School on Baynard Boul. I remember eating lunch at Lanks and buying baseball cards there from Francis Lank. The teachers at Shortlidge I remember were Ms.Irons, Ms. Lentini, Ms. Starr, Mr. Nafziger, and Ms. Wade for P.E. I then went to P.S. duPont for junior and senior high school. I played golf at Rock Manor, swam at Sellers Estate in the summers, was a member of Sigma Alpha Rho fraternity, hung out at Matson Run and the Charcoal Pit, went to Brandywine Raceway for the last 2 races which were free, enjoyed watching semi-pro baseball at 18th Street field including the Parkway - Brooks Armored Cars rivalry with such players as Bunny Miller, Ralph Conrad, Bob Immediato, Scrappy May, Ruly Carpenter, and Manager Ralph Hickman. I also remember the Wilm. Blue Bombers of the old Eastern Basketball League with Waite Bellamy, Swish McKinney, Tom Hoover, and Neil Johnson as the Manager. In the summers I worked at Canby Park and had fond memories of working for my first bosses Michael Tosi and Hank Vary. My doctors were Elton Resnick (Primary Care), Leon Levy (Dentist), and Elmer Gross (Dermatologist). After high school my parents moved to Florida and I went to the University of Maryland and then remained in Rockville, Maryland. However, I'll always have fond memories of growing up in Wilmington. Arnold Silver, Rockville, Maryland, arlinsilver@comcast.net
Arnold Silver <arlinsilver@comcast.net>
Rockville, MD USA - Sunday, April 25, 2004 at 17:30:48 (EDT)
Connie: I'm pretty sure it was Creston Place, which is actually west of Jefferson. I think our fellow Guestbook correspondent Harry Brand grew up right around there, too. Two friends of mine grew up on Creston: Jack Phillips, and Preston L. "Diz" Day (PSDuP 1950), big brother of Ellen Day (PSDuP 1952), my PS classmate. Diz retired from Hercules several years ago, and lives in Sandy, Utah. I saw him in Wilmington last October at a UDel fraternity reunion. He's lookin' pretty good for an Old Frat man!
Bob <wilso127@yahoo.com>
USA - Sunday, April 25, 2004 at 08:17:41 (EDT)
Bob - could it have been Thompson Pl or Creston Pl? (parallel to and W of Washington)
Connie
USA - Sunday, April 25, 2004 at 07:48:21 (EDT)
My husband worked in Phillip`s coal and lumber yard when we were married in 1937 Wages were $.25 an hour
charlotte pulley <mickey710@webtv.net>
TX USA - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 23:39:16 (EDT)
Could be, Pat, could be, but that name doesn't ring any bells. At this point, however, NO name of an MD in Wilmington would ring any bell for me, except Dr. Parvis, whose daughter Carley (PSDuP 1951) married Jack Phillips (PSDuP 1951)in Wilmington in 1955. Jack passed away a couple of years ago. His family owned a coal yard down in the Maryland Avenue vicinity back in the 1950's. 1951)in June 1955. Jack grew up down around 28th and Washington, on a short street parallel to and west of Washington.
Bob Wilson <wilso127@yahoo.com>
USA - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 23:30:22 (EDT)
Bob, would that be Dr. Butler?
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 08:51:16 (EDT)
Would you believe that I lived in Wilmington and vicinity for seven years and never needed or visited a doctor except to get a physical exam that the University of Delaware required for admission? I don't remember his name, but his office was on the west side of Washington Street at the corner of 21st or 22nd Street. Pat Stilwell LeVan could probably come up with his name.
Bob Wilson <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Stamford, CT USA - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 08:42:19 (EDT)
My wife , Nancy Smith was delivered by Dr. E. Spencer and our kids were Delivered by Dr. Pennock. I Believe our pediatrician was named Stern. My wife was born in 1932 and the kids in 1955 and 1957.
John Tapie <byecholabs@aol.com>
Sunrise, Fl USA - Friday, April 23, 2004 at 17:31:01 (EDT)
How do you view the images listed? I am particulaly interested in Brandywine Raceway and Lenape Park right now. I am an Artist that paints and prints Wilmington Nostalgia. Please contact me @ above email address. Thank You
Larry Anderson <lsarepro@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, April 23, 2004 at 10:27:20 (EDT)
kigers WAS at 4th and Union. I stood on tiptoes to pick out my dimes worth of candy in the 20`s. That was before the great depression. A bakery was acroos 4th,next the Park theater where I saw my first colored movie, Eddie Canter in Whoopie Kiger MAY have moved but up until the 30`s when we moved from the Flats it was still at 4th and Union
charlotte pulley <mickey710webtv.net>
TX USA - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 11:41:19 (EDT)
Don: Check this URL for the Getty refinery history: http://www.motivaenterprises.com/page.cfm?pageID=189
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
West Sumner, CA USA - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 21:33:41 (EDT)
can anyone tell me when getty refinery ,near del city was built??
don winslow <hbuddyboy@aol.com>
laurel, de USA - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 19:24:40 (EDT)
It was called Union Pharmacy at 401 North Union St. Kiger was the pharmacist at the time. I'm not sure if he owned it or not. We all called it Kiger's but it was Union Pharmacy.
Richard
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 17:33:27 (EDT)
Kigers Pharmacy was on the corner of 4th and Union Streets. I was there in the early 1950's. Later it was at 1500 West 4th St.
Richard
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 17:21:51 (EDT)
I grew up in the city 1614 Wesr 4th St. I have many fond memories of the old neighborhood. However I'd like to note that Kigers Pharmacy was not on 4th & Union St. It was on the 1500 block of West 4th St between Dupont and Scott Sts. I lived right down the street from it. I lived there from 1960 to 1973. Also does anyone remember Broadway Cold Cuts that was on the corner of 4th & Scott. That's where my mom bought all her cold cuts. That was one of her Saturday morning stops. Then it was off to Peter Papas. My memories of the old days will always be with me. My moms side of the family all lived in the area around and in Little Italy. She'd take me with her when she went to visit my Uncle Albert & Aunt Mary Delpizzo. Another Uncle & Aunt lived on Holland St another on Lincoln Street. When I got older my hang outs were Bancroft Parkway, Canby Pool and the Elsmere Roller rink. The beauty of the whole city scene was the convenience of getting around. You could walk anywhere. One other memory before go is when I'd walk to and from the A & P on Union St with my mom and there were boys that worked there that would push your full grocery cart home for you of course we gave them a tip. Those were the good old days. GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN.
Patricia Kent <mrskentdingaling@msn.com>
Newark, De USA - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 15:20:54 (EDT)
A Wilmington Doctor Story: Late 1950s,as a ten year old, I was taken to Wilmington Memorial Hosp. My elbow had become jammed and locked from some horseplay at home. Nobody on duty in the ER could figure out why my arm wouldn't move. They called in Dr. Jenkins. He arrived handing his full length cashmere overcoat and white silk scarf to a nurse. He examined me then went into the hallway for a conference. After some consultation he returned, snapped my arm back into place and several dozen onlookers applauded. Before leaving he told me he played trombone in a jazz group called "The Rhythym Doctors." Years later I saw him in a concert at the Dupont Hotel. The elbow is fine.
Larry Roszkowiak (Rush) <lroszkowiak@its.ucsf.edu>
San Francisco, CA USA - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 13:51:08 (EDT)
I was delivered by Dr. Stern at Delaware Division. That's about all I know about that, though, and only that from what's in my baby book! *grins* My grandparents went to Dr. Schlaifman the dentist, though--I remember his office, it was just down Concord Ave. from my grandparents (kitty-corner from old #30 school). That Patsy's on Baynard Blvd--was that a corner market type place? Did they have a Pepsi sign out front? I vaguely remember that from my childhood (late 50s/early 60s). So much has changed, yet some old landmarks are still around.
Ruth <zavijah@earthlink.net>
Hyattsville, MD USA - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 13:12:23 (EDT)
Bruce: we're talking about 55 years ago- I don't even remember Brown's Drug Store...! Dr. Kline/Klein's office may have been there, but I do recall it being near the Penny Hill Police Station.
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 12:07:44 (EDT)
Bill, I believe Dr. Kline's (sp?) office was directly across Philly Pike from Brown's Drug Store, wasn't it?
Bruce <spyderxl@comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 09:36:12 (EDT)
Pat LeVan- you tweaked my memory... I went to a dentist at 22nd and Washington; his name was Leonard Bellanca. I remember him well, because he used no novocaine or any other pain killer for some pretty deep fillings... just the old slow-speed drill... YIKES!!! (Ever see the Bill Cosby routine "At the Dentist"? Reminds me of those days...) And I just thought of another dentist- A Dr. Kline (Klein?) whose office was up on the Philadelphia Pike very near the intersection with Washington St. Extension . He was extraction-happy; didn't go to him very long, and only lost one tooth to him.
Bill Fisherw <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 00:54:10 (EDT)
About old Wilmington Dr.s...A Dr. Cassidy delivered me at St. Francis Hospital in 1934...another one of our family Dr's was Dr. Postal who was around 23rd. & Market Streets.Dr. Postal removed a button (on my dress originally)from my nose. Also, Dr. McGee was the pediatrition for my children and his office was, I believe, on Broom Street...Dr. Mc.Gee removed a seashell from my daughters nose (which originally was on her bracelet)Must be hereditary. Another family Dr. was Dr. Henry George who was out Baynard Blvd. and our dentist just off Baynard Blvd. was Dr. Schlaifman (spelling) who we went to for years and years.Dr's that delivered my children were a group, Dr.'s Giles, Stern, Weaver & Brooks. on Delaware Ave. I enjoy visiting this site on a regular basis. Thanks to everyone who contributes. :) Last but not least...a old favorite restaurant of mine that I have not seen on this site was the 1101 Restaurant on, I believe, Eleventh Street near the DuPont Buildling.
Patricia Kearney Lodge
Key Biscayne, Fl USA - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 23:48:45 (EDT)
Dentists - Dr. Russo at 23rd and Market (next to Fred Knecht's) and Dr. Murray Kline at 19th and Washington.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 19:54:29 (EDT)
BUTCH, REFERRING TO YOUR QUESTION,THE SANDY BOTTOM THAT I WAS REFERRING TO WASN'T NEAR ROCKLAND.IT WAS ACROSS THE CRICK FROM BRECKS MILL,JUST UP FROM THE EXPERIMENTAL STATION (DUPONTS). K.
K.(FITZHARRIS) BURTON <breckslnkid10@yahoo.com>
WILMINGTON, DE. USA - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 19:24:46 (EDT)
And Dr. Wallwork, whose office was next to the Warner Theater on 10th St.
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 18:29:04 (EDT)
While we're on this topic, how about some of the dentists in the Wilmington area? Some names that come to mind are Dr. Shames, Dr. Kreshtool, Dr. Roland V. "Deacon" Reed, Dr. Newell, and my grandfather, Dr. Howard C. Watson, who was President of the Delaware Dental Society in the 30's.
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 16:32:18 (EDT)
And don`t forget Dr. Bowen, at 604 W. 11th St.and Dr. Reardon around 29th and Washington St.
Bill Hare <wchamerica@aol.com>
Ky USA - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 11:27:03 (EDT)
Another noted Wilmington pediatrician was Dr. McCarthy, whose office was between 10th & 11th, on Jefferson, I believe.
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Monday, April 19, 2004 at 11:16:57 (EDT)
Dr. Willard Preston delivered me in March of 1935. Dr. Norwood Voss was our family doctor in the 40's. My mother spoke of a Dr. Gerald Dougherty in the early 1900's in the 40 acres area.
Pat (Stillwell) LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port Saint Lucie, FL USA - Sunday, April 18, 2004 at 20:59:13 (EDT)
Dr Skura delievered my first baby in Nov1937 He was then on Front St near Rodney It was his first year of practice. They say he delivered more babies that year than any other docter in town..In the `40 and early `50 we had dr. Rickards. He made home visits when We lived in Shipside and delivered my last one in 1947
charlotte pulley <mickey710@webtv.net>
TX USA - Sunday, April 18, 2004 at 14:57:56 (EDT)
Bruce, Van Scivers was at 9th and King on the North/East corner, Sterns was at 7th and Market on the South/East corner. Many of the stores downtown had elevators. I think it was supposed to impress the customers. Mullins at 6th and Market actually had one that was operated by a porter. A porter also operated the one in the old courthouse building on the north end.
Wayne <twntydasys@aol.com>
USA - Sunday, April 18, 2004 at 11:38:54 (EDT)
Does anyone recall the names of any of the great Wilmington pediatricians and specialists? Our family pediatrician was Dr. Stroud in the 50s and 60s, and I also recall Dr. Hazard (what a name for a physician!) took out our tonsils at the Memorial Hospital in the early 60s. My sister also visited a Dr. Strange (the names got "stranger" and "stranger" apparently) for ear, nose, and throat. Does anyone recall these doctors? Another one was Dr. Skura. I think he had an office close to downtown, in the area torn up for the new I-95. Sincerely,Donata Wilmington, Delaware Then and Now _ A City in Vintage and Modern Views: ttp://www.geocities.com/wilmingtonthenandnow/ Wilmington Poetry Journal http://www.journalscape.com/TheWilmingtonian/
Donata Lewandowski Guerra <OldWilmington@nc.rr.com>
USA - Saturday, April 17, 2004 at 23:38:37 (EDT)
Wasn't Stern's Furniture at 9th & King? And, either before or after, it was Van Sciver's? Somewhere in that area.
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Saturday, April 17, 2004 at 18:35:32 (EDT)
McMahons had a furniture store around 6th and Kind. There was also an American grocery store on King just a couple doors up from 4th. Fruit stand on the corner then a butcher shop then the grocery which later was called ACME
charlotte pulley
TX USA - Saturday, April 17, 2004 at 18:28:33 (EDT)
I remember the numerous mulberry trees along the Park Drive at the Brandywine Creek. We used to eat some and then collect bags full of them to take home. One time we poured them into a galvanized tub and stomped them in our dirty bare feet in an attempt to make wine.
Connie
USA - Saturday, April 17, 2004 at 17:22:23 (EDT)
i want to thank my friend joe for turning me on to this site.dose anyone remember west end park. the round house the rocks with the kings chair,the mulberry tree,and the rock car at the bottom of the hill
nick <polishpop1>
wilmington, de USA - Saturday, April 17, 2004 at 15:30:39 (EDT)
Yes, J.B. Van Sciver's Furniture had a Wilmington store for many years; first in downtown Wilmington (King St.?), then on the Gov. Printz in North Wilmington. Others with better memories can provide more details, I can just verify that Van Sciver's did have a store in Wilmington.
Bruce <spyderxl@comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Saturday, April 17, 2004 at 09:21:25 (EDT)
I bought a set of chairs and table made of hard maple. One of the chairs has a label J.B. Scivers Co., Camden NJ. Your store list had J.B. Scivers Co. Was it a furniture store? Great web site! WalMart will never have the same memories!
Maria Rudzinski <mmrsunset@aol.com>
PITTSFORD, New York USA - Saturday, April 17, 2004 at 08:11:21 (EDT)
aa
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USA - Wednesday, April 14, 2004 at 07:35:03 (EDT)
Ann Remedio Patton: Was the Patsy's at 4th & Adams any relation to the Patsy's at Baynard Blvd and Van Buren, across from #30 School? That one was later known as Toner's.
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Sunday, April 11, 2004 at 12:07:47 (EDT)
If the things on this website interest you, you'll be very interested in the book "Wilmington - A Pictorial History." by Carol E. Hoffecker ISBN#0-89865-057-7. My sister gave me a copy as a gift some years ago and I often pick it up. It has pictures and stories of the people we knew as street names (Tatnall, Shipley, etc.) It has hundreds of photos of Wilmington during the times leading up to and including those represented by this website. It's a very good book for our kids.
Larry Roszkowiak (Rush) <lroszkowiak@its.ucsf.edu>
San Francisco, CA USA - Sunday, April 11, 2004 at 12:03:41 (EDT)
Wayne, I sure do remember Flagg Flyers! I wonder if it's possible to get a pair somewhere, sure would be neat.
Dave <dziegler3@comcasr.net>
Newark, DE USA - Sunday, April 11, 2004 at 09:12:29 (EDT)
Bob,after I had written to you about Mrs. Cale, I checked with a couple of my old friends from the Boy's Club days and they say that she was the secretary at the Jackson Street Club for a number of years.
Ray Jubb <dolfopera@aol.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Saturday, April 10, 2004 at 22:16:16 (EDT)
I saw as I was exiting the other day, the heading about Market St. and the stores there. This should unite at least the guys from 55 to 75. Does anyone remember Flagg Bros. Shoe store and the famous Flagg Flyers?
Wayne <twntydasys@aol.com>
USA - Saturday, April 10, 2004 at 21:36:08 (EDT)
Patsy's Sandwich Shop at 4th & Adam's St. opened in the 1930's and was one of the first sub shops in Wilm. Patsy Remedio & wife Ann (my parents), were at the location until I-95 came through in 1962.
Ann (Remedio) Patton <Terann004@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, April 09, 2004 at 15:00:02 (EDT)
For Ray Jubb, Could be. I knew Vic from working at Knowles Hobby and Music Store. My wife (then girlfriend) also skated at the roller rink occasionally. Bob
Bob Veazey
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, April 08, 2004 at 18:19:07 (EDT)
TO BOB VEASEY: I BELIEVE THE MRS. CALE ALSO WORKED AT THE JACKSON STREET BOY'S CLUB WHILE HER HUSBAND RAN THE SKATE RINK.
rAY jUBB <GOLFOPERA@AOL.COM>
USA - Thursday, April 08, 2004 at 16:24:54 (EDT)
Anybody here from Elsmere and Corpus Christi Elementary? Specifically class of '62 (1962).
Larry Roszkowiak (Rush) <lroszkowiak@its.ucsf.edu>
San Francisco, C USA - Thursday, April 08, 2004 at 15:59:22 (EDT)
UNDER PEOPLE: ANYONE HAVING LIVED IN THE HEDGEVILLE AREA IN THE 40'S WILL REMEMBER "COCKY LEO" AND THE TWIN BROTHERS WHO WERE USHERS AT THE ACE THEATRE WHO COULD NEITHER HERE NOR TALK.
RAY JUBB <GOLFOPERA@AOL.COM>
USA - Wednesday, April 07, 2004 at 23:41:05 (EDT)
There was an old dinner (early '60s) on 202 (Concord Pike) next to the library, which was next to AI duPont Elementary school. I believe the name of the place was 'Olympia Dinner'.
Kennedy E. Hobson <ken.hobson@unisys.com>
Mission Viejo, CA USA - Wednesday, April 07, 2004 at 16:39:16 (EDT)
The Printz Roller Rink was originally owned and operated by Vic Cale. He was also a musician, played the organ. Can't remember his wife' name, but she was always around.
Bob Veazey
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, April 07, 2004 at 12:05:29 (EDT)
Does anyone remember the lady with the black poodle who went to the Printz roller rink every week?
Connie
USA - Wednesday, April 07, 2004 at 09:20:26 (EDT)
I used to try to skate a couple of times a month at the Printz rink; I was very friendly with the floor there, I knew every board in the floor - intimately.
Bruce <spyderxl@comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Tuesday, April 06, 2004 at 12:21:32 (EDT)
Bruce my gang use to skate at the printz at least three times a week It was owned at that time by the Vaccarins.
bill rogers <brogers@delanet.com>
wilm, de USA - Monday, April 05, 2004 at 21:14:50 (EDT)
HIYA, Tommy Bratton! I remember you from PS AND the U of D. I was PS Class of 1952, and UDel 1956, was a Delt, and drew the weekly cartoon in THE REVIEW for 3 years. In 1949-1951, I lived on West 23rd Street at Monroe. Weren't you involved in the hotel business for many years, or am I thinking of someone else??
Wilso <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Stamford, CT USA - Sunday, April 04, 2004 at 18:35:36 (EDT)
Though I didn't grow-up in Wilmington, living 18 miles south of it in Delaware City surely didn't stop the fond memories I have of Wilmington throughout the years. "Goin in town". Whenever anybody in Delaware City said those words it was NEVER questioned. You always knew what the meant. It meant that they were going to Wilmington. Born 1956 in the Memorial hospital, maybe I can consider myself a Wilmingtonian by proxy ?? Lol...lol... As a kid, there were no shopping centers in our immediate area, so all of our shopping was basically done in Wilmington. Dry-Goods, Harolds, Kresges, Federal bake shop, Army-navy store, Hearns, Merchandise mart, etc, etc. All of the places will foreverbe imprinted on my mind and evoke happy memories of being a kid.
Charlie Hall <zyzman@aol.com>
Bear, DE USA - Sunday, April 04, 2004 at 12:41:53 (EDT)
Anyone who grew up in North Wilmington, around Bellefonte, or cruised the Bellefonte area in the 50's, check this website out, it is about an annual reunion that they put together each year. Very casual, and they are inviting anyone from that era who cruised the area to attend. The event is April 24th. I'm not a spokesperson for this, just happened to come across it, and am passing the info along. http://www.bellefontereunion.com
Bruce <spyderxl>
Wilmington, USA - Saturday, April 03, 2004 at 09:33:11 (EST)
Spent the first three years of my life on my family's farm, (now known as Frederick's Lodge), 1934-1937. Moved back to Wilmington, then Mary C.I Williams; old #9 school at 8th and Jefferson (across from West Presbyterian); #24school 1940-45; Warner Jr. High '45-'48: P.S. duPont class of '51. Lived in the inth ward (now Brandywine Village); and get together with the neighborhood "gang" at least once a year for a luncheon before Christmas up in Wilmington. Would like to make the annual Prices Run get together sometime which is apparently run by my old neighbor Jack Smith. Saw a picture of the gathering and recognize, even after all these years (left Del. after the U of D, went into the Navy & never moved back). Showed the picture to Hal and Tom Megonigal (Jessup Street in days of yore) when they visited Williamsburg. See "Yachtie" in Laguna Beach, CA now and then when we visit a couople of our kids, also California residents. Enjoy the site and shall pass it on to other ex patriot Wilmingtonians.
Tom Bratton <evtom4942@webtv.net>
Wiliamsburg, VA USA - Saturday, April 03, 2004 at 09:07:21 (EST)
Elaine, there was a roller skating rink on the Gov. Printz a couple of miles north of the DanDee, at Holly Oak Rd. and the Printz, named the "Printz Roller-Way", or Roll-Away (I have the name in a folder somewhere, not sure right at the moment), is that the one you are speaking of?
Bruce <spyderxl>
Wilmington, USA - Friday, April 02, 2004 at 20:17:48 (EST)
CONNIE HARLAN ELEM. SCHOOL IS WHERE THIS MAN WAS SELLING HIS FUDGE AND STICKY APPLES EVERY FRIDAY AFTERNOON. WE ALWAYS SAID HE SPIT ON THEM TO MAKE THEM SHINNY.
ELAINE
USA - Friday, April 02, 2004 at 16:04:31 (EST)
I REMEBER THE DAN DEE DRIVE IN ON THE GOVERNOR PRINTZ AND THE SKATING RINK THAT WAS NOT FAR FROM IT. DO YOU?
ELAINE DOBRZYNSKI
WILM,, DE. USA - Friday, April 02, 2004 at 15:58:48 (EST)
business machines. Graduated from PS in '58. What was your last name. Dottie (brown) Becker
Dot (brown) Becker <dorothy.m.becker@dupont-dow.com>
wilmington, de USA - Friday, April 02, 2004 at 10:14:20 (EST)
I remember when an elderly Greek man sold fudge and homemade cigarettes outside Warner Jr. High School. I asked why anyone would pay a quarter for 1 cigarette when they could get an entire pack for the same price and the other kids laughed at me. I know why now!
Connie
USA - Thursday, April 01, 2004 at 16:27:22 (EST)
DO YOU REMEMBER WHEN YOU WERE IN ELEM. SCHOOL AND AN OLD MAN WITH HIS CART WAS OUTSIDE SELLING FUDGE AND STICKY APPLES FOR A NICKEL? THATS WHAT WE SAVED OUR MILK MONEY FOR.
ELAINE DOBRZYNSKI <JACKSREELS>
WILMINGTON, DE USA - Wednesday, March 31, 2004 at 20:42:09 (EST)
Dawn, Pappy's Pizza is just a memory now, but the Charcoal Pit is still there, still looks the same, and they still have the Kitchen Sink, along with all of the other school-named ice cream dishes. The Charcoal Pit is listed in the Restaurant list on the main page, about halfway down in the restaurants & diners list. :)
Bruce <spyderxl@comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Tuesday, March 30, 2004 at 19:25:49 (EST)
I missed the Pappy's Pizza and 'The Pit' (Charcoal Pit) on Concord Pike when we visited last year! Didn't see these on the restaurant lists. Remember the Kitchen sink Ice Cream from the Pit?
Dawn Wilson <halfpintwil@juno.com>
Chelsea, AL USA - Tuesday, March 30, 2004 at 15:35:09 (EST)
Sorry - I didn't mean chess match, I meant I don't remember any checkers tournaments.
Connie
USA - Monday, March 29, 2004 at 07:43:59 (EST)
I remember Prices Run Park and the free mornings at the swimming pool in the mid to late 40s. Don't remember any chess match, though.
Connie
USA - Monday, March 29, 2004 at 07:43:01 (EST)
anybody remember prices run park in the 30's.checkers tournament with camby park? swimming for less than a dime all day.
addie
orlando, fl USA - Saturday, March 27, 2004 at 23:23:41 (EST)
In my dancing days you didn`t go below 4th til West St. Gypsies lived down that way. I don`t think i ever went below 4th til around Lincoln St Remember the firehouse at 3rd and Union. Same way on King St, never below 4th. . Oh, I do remmber Lujoes on 2nd between market and King but that was in later days
charlotte pulley
TX USA - Saturday, March 27, 2004 at 16:16:40 (EST)
Not only do I remember the rag man. I rode in his wagon to take the horse back to the where he stabled his horse under the Elsmere bridge.....and then walked home to Delmore Place!!!!
Richie <ccint@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Saturday, March 27, 2004 at 13:29:02 (EST)
I think the Eagles Lodge was somewhere on West 2nd Street, wasn't it? Somewhere out around Washington or Jefferson Street. ????
Bruce <spyderxl@comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Saturday, March 27, 2004 at 11:52:16 (EST)
How about dances at the EAGLES LODGE ? Forget what street it was on but was a sude street.
charlotte pulley
TX USA - Saturday, March 27, 2004 at 11:17:37 (EST)
That would be "Bob, the Rag Man, Hi-Ho". This was painted on the side of his wagon. The horse that pulled the wagon always wore a straw hat with holes for the ears cut out so the ears stuck through. Bob came through our neighborhood at least once a week in the 40's.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Saturday, March 27, 2004 at 06:41:55 (EST)
Here`s an old one. Does anybody remember selling rags to the old black man with his horse and wagon ?
charlotte pulley <mickey710@webtv.net>
TX USA - Friday, March 26, 2004 at 23:55:32 (EST)
Mike it is funny to see someone speak of Aschenbachs and Christ Our King. Thanks
Gerry Dougherty <doughert@sover.net>
Addison, VT USA - Wednesday, March 24, 2004 at 08:45:42 (EST)
To Mary Laird Silvia: My aunt worked ath the Rockland paper mill till it closed down. She is 80 and could provide you much information. Let me know how to reach you and I will have her contact you.
Brenda <mimibms@comcast.net>
Newark, DE USA - Tuesday, March 23, 2004 at 14:18:45 (EST)
I think what I remember was further back when they called them tornadoes. I remember Hazel. I lived in Smyrna then.I got 25 yrs on you and already forget your name..I love to get mail. I have lots of special memories of Wilmington but do forget the newer things
charlotte pulley <mickey710@webtv.net>
TX USA - Tuesday, March 23, 2004 at 13:20:34 (EST)
To Charlotte: I think that was hurricane Hazel that tore off the roofs in the Flats. I lived in the Flats at the time I'm now 61 years old, I don't know if I qualify as an old timer yet.
Richard
Wilmington, DE USA - Tuesday, March 23, 2004 at 11:03:32 (EST)
To Bill Fisher: Bill, I sent you an e-mail but it is refused at your end. Please contact me with an e-mail address I can use. Thanks...
Harry Rogerson <webmaster@oldwilmington.net>
Perryville, MD USA - Tuesday, March 23, 2004 at 08:26:26 (EST)
To Charlotte: I lived in the 'Flats' and attended Lore School K-5. Then my family moved to the suburbs. Please e-mail me...
Harry Rogerson <webmaster@oldwilmington.net>
Perryville, MD USA - Tuesday, March 23, 2004 at 08:21:19 (EST)
Does`nt anyone have memories of the West side of town ? All the areas with names of presidents ? St Anthony`s church or St Thomas ?. The tornado that went thru tearing off flat roofs .Charles B Loe school or am I going to far back ? Guess most of the kids I went to school with are dead.Sure would like hear from some REAL old timers
charlotte Pulley nee Heathcote
livingston, tx USA - Monday, March 22, 2004 at 11:03:59 (EST)
Aschenbach's at 26th & Monroe?? Sure, but does anybody remember it when it was at Concord Ave & Jefferson St????
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Sunday, March 21, 2004 at 23:50:06 (EST)
I remember driving down rollercoaster hill without using the brakes... does anyone remember the hook man in Beaver Valley? Or drinking beers at the Dupont Estate? Does anyone know where the top of the world is? And how about the Charcoal Pit?
Rich Dowling <iceman7140@aol.com>
Orlando, Fl USA - Sunday, March 21, 2004 at 22:33:39 (EST)
Who remembers drinking some Bud at the railroad tracks north of Haines Park? And who is Marty George?
Rich Dowling <iceman7140@aol.com>
Orlando, Fl USA - Sunday, March 21, 2004 at 22:24:22 (EST)
Does anyone remember Haines Park and the playground leagues and all the great times that we all had there... Also does anyone remember Matson Run Store and have you ever gone to a friday night Sallies dance after the football game?
mike dowling <MLDOWLING34@COMCAST.NET>
Sarasota, fl USA - Sunday, March 21, 2004 at 22:20:48 (EST)
Does anyone remember Ashenbachs on 26th street? Remember all the great times that everyone at Christ Our King had after basketball games, friday nights, and everyday. The Yard Rules!
mike dowling <MLDOWLING34@COMCAST.NET>
Sarasota, fl USA - Sunday, March 21, 2004 at 22:17:57 (EST)
Oh we can't forget Sally Star, I got her autograph at Petersons House of Fudge. Remember that? The origional was up by the Holiday Inn N. Concord Pike, and the newer one was by Lanning Music on the Concord Pike across from Aldersgate Chuch.
Rebecca Johnson Crosgrey <daytrippingontario@msn.com>
w, Ontario Canada - Sunday, March 21, 2004 at 16:17:26 (EST)
I spent the first 17 years of my life growing up in Blue Rock Manor(from 1959 to 1977), Wilmington. Even though I couldn't wait to get out of suburbian hell, I still cherish my childhod memories. Hearns grocery store at the Fairfax shopping center grand opening where I won a metal Pepsi truck, and Brittinghams pharmacy with the soda fountain. I remember meeting Miss Connie from Romper Room in Hearns grocery store and getting her autograph, also the Oscar Meyer Wiener Mobile was at the Fairfax shopping center and I got a free whistle.Tigues drugstore, Berts Tape Factory, Joe the barber who cut my hair for the first time,, and my ear too OUCH! My first job at Almart department store witch was a single store before the Concord mall. Shivones Restaurant was great, they lived across the street from us and Mr. Shivone had a mini take out restaurant in his home with a whole room which had a bar and separate mens and ladies restrooms in their basement which I thought was so cool. His homemade ravoli was to die for! I remember sitting on my Dad's lap and watching the Friendly Giant on channel 12, and never heard any more about him, till I moved to Toronto 4 years ago and read his obituary in the local paper, he was a Canadian. One thing comes to mind, does anyone remember those ring whistles that you would blow in. They were metal and sounded like a siren? Feel free to email me!
Rebecca Johnson Crosgrey <daytrippingontario@msn.com>
Toronto, Ontario Canada - Sunday, March 21, 2004 at 16:14:44 (EST)
I am presently doing research on the history of Rockland, DE. Does anybody know anyone who lived there and/or worked in the Rockland Paper Mill? My area of interest is the neighborhood Rockland to Blue Ball to Alapocas. It does not include Talleyville. Re: McKee's Hill: If my memory is correct, it was named for Thomas McKee, who owned property there. The surfact of the road on the hill was paved with bricks when the Concord Pike was first surfaced with macadam. This was reputed to be the first stretch of macadam road in the State of Delaware, and the brickwork was said to be the first of its kind in the state. I remember the brick paving as being very bumpy compared to the macadam, but this was a blessing in icy weather. Sadly, there was too much traffic for sledding...
Mary Laird Silvia
USA - Sunday, March 21, 2004 at 09:48:30 (EST)
LEONETTI'S BAKERY CLOSED UP A FEW YRS. BACK...IT'S LIKE A DINER NOW..ALLIE LEONETTI LAST I HEARD WAS WORKING AT DE. PARK...THEY NOW HAVE SLOTS....JOEY LEONETTI I THINK STILL WORKS FOR ELSMERE FIRE HOUSE...........GREENHILL DELI. HAD A FIRE A FEW YRS. AGO & NEVER REOPENED
Bubbles <JNPASQUALE@COMCAST.NET>
WILMINGTON , DE USA - Wednesday, March 17, 2004 at 21:26:35 (EST)
THANKS Michael, That just blew my mind! What memories came back from just seeing the map of the future developements! Such a short time in my life had such impact. 25 years later, and I still think about it! I'd love to see some old textbooks from Edgemoore. I got a few from Ebay recently.
Tania Dordik Vidal <tvidal@positivepromotions.com>
Whitestone, NY USA - Wednesday, March 17, 2004 at 12:13:17 (EST)
Tania: go to this website: http://www.pettinarorelocation.com/Locations.asp then click on Paladin Club. You'll see what happend to your home at Clifton Park Apts.
Michael Klezaras
USA - Wednesday, March 17, 2004 at 08:48:34 (EST)
Leonetti's Bakery (Leonetti family) and Greenhill Deli (Degnars family). Old friends used to run these stores. Anybody know what happened to them.
Larry Roszkowiak (Rush) <lroszkowiak@its.usf.edu>
San Francisco, C USA - Tuesday, March 16, 2004 at 18:03:30 (EST)
Regarding my films: The only one you've even possibly seen is a short for PBS called "The Sensible Thing." It shows up on PBS every year or so as part of an anthology series. I understand it's making the rounds of PBS re-runs this Spring. I've also been in the following features: "Familiar" directed by Brook Hinton, "Nightfall" dir by Erika Shersun, "Cutting Horse" by Larry Clarke. I haven't quit the dayjob.
Larry Roszkowiak (Rush) <lroszkowiak@its.ucsf.edu>
San Francisco, CA USA - Tuesday, March 16, 2004 at 17:55:53 (EST)
My aunt married one of those hucksters.George Spencer. She lived in the flats. One of those Rices Bread drivers was my bookey when the races were running at Havre De Grace and I lived in Shipside . Later built in Marshallton, sold to buy a farm in Smyrna. Lived on Lincoln St just above Delaware Ave Worked in a shoe store just below 4th on market. Spent a lot of time at Brandywine Park My husband dated before marriage a couple of Browntown girls, one Jean Jerski Others I cant spell Left DE in 57 to get out of the cold
mickey pulley
TX USA - Tuesday, March 16, 2004 at 11:12:48 (EST)
I do have great memories of Wilmington. First, because I was born there and second I spent most of my working life there. I can vividly recall many a summer, as a kid, helping my great-uncle with his huckstering trade. He lived in Browntown and had a stable there for his horse. As a kid from Philly it was most exciting working around a horse, I can recall the many joyful hours of swimming in the Camby Park swimming pool. The times that my cousin Ed Anderson and I walked through devil's den. How daring, we thought, it was to see how fast we could make the Swinging Bridge--swing. This was a bridge over the Brandywine River. The Saturdays afternoons spent in the Ace theater. The stop in the Candy Kitchen to get some provisions--candies--with which to watch the movie. My first job in Wilmington after moving down from Philly was in Electric Hose and Rubber, I still remember the horrible smell of the rubber and the most unbearable clanking noise of some of the machinery, Then there was a short stint as a Rice's Bakery bread salesman. Those of you who dealt with Rice's Bakery--might recall their famous Louisiana Ring cake. It was their big seller. I quickly determined that I was not suited to be a salesman. Speaking of something sweet--how about the pound cake from Schelic's(?) Bakery? They were located on Stroud Street in Browntown--the same street that my great-uncle lived on. Then there was the six months I spent at the recently opened G. M. Plant. I then found a niche at DuPont's Wilmington Shop, where I worked for some twenty-eight years. It was there that I worked with some of the best machinist in the country. One of the best was Frank Bulat--whose father happened to be a huckster in the same time frame as my great-uncle. Remember Fanny's on the corner on Second and VanBuren? How about Mrs. Bowen who had a store on Front and Van Buren? I also remember the fights that the Defiance Club used to promote. I should also like to say with pride that my Uncle Ray Drakio (Drejka) who at the age of 94 years is the last survivor of Sir George Hubert Wilkins' attempt in 1931 to cross the North Pole in a submarine.
Alex F Wysocki <USAAF43rdBG@webtv.net>
Chadds Ford, PA USA - Tuesday, March 16, 2004 at 10:44:30 (EST)
My family came to this country from Russia in 1974. I was 4 years old. We were helped in finding an apt. , school for me, and jobs for my parents. We lived in the Clifton Park Apts. and I went to Edgemoor Elementary School from 1974-1978 or 79. I went to camp JCC every summer while we lived there. I still remember my childhood there as being the best a kid could have. The children and teachers in school were so kind and friendly. So were the kids in the Clifton Park apts. I'm obsessed with finding out what happened to them and the school. My family moved to NYC in 79-ish and I didn't go back to see my "HOME" until the early 90's when my husband and I went to a convention in Wilmington. It all looked abandoned when I found those apts. and I think the school was a community center. Can somebody tell me what happened? I feel as if my childhood never existed and I dreamed it all. Those memories are so warm and dear to me, I wish so much to find a link to that time. I still rememeber my teachers. Miss Venturina, Miss Gregory, Miss Hyman.
Tania Dordik <tvidal@positivepromotions.com>
Whitestone, NY USA - Monday, March 15, 2004 at 18:40:56 (EST)
HOW ABOUT EARL'S DAIRY AT 3RD & SCOTT ST.....THEN A FEW YEARS LATER IT WAS A CHICKEN PLACE(FRESHLY KILLED )..WEST END NEIGHBOR HOUSE MISS WEAVER & MISS McVEIGH & THE DOG SKIPPY...CIRO POPPITTI'S BANK AT HOWLAND AND LINCOLN....SAINT MICHAEL'S CLUB WHERE THE NEW PIEDMONT PARKING LOT IS...JOHNNY THE PARK GUARD WHO WOULD CHASE US OUT OF THE PARKS UP THE FLATS..DELLCOLLO'S PIZZA AT 5TH & UNION ST...ROBBINS & CLARK'S HARDWARE STORE AT 3RD & UNION ST..THEY USE TO HAVE A LIVE SANTA EVERY CHRISTMAS YOU COULD GET ALL YOUR CHRISTMAS TOYS THERE...THE FARMERS MARKET ON LINCOLN ST. EVERY SAT...JOHN REALE'S CHICKEN PLACE ON LINCOLN BETWEEN 5TH & 6TH...EVERY EASTER YOU COULD BUY DYED BABY CHICKS...SIMEONE'S BIKE & ANTIQUE SHOP ON 4TH & LINCOLN... THE T V SETS IN THE WINDOWS (LINCOLN CAMERA SHOP & SIMEONE'S ) ON LINCOLN BETWEEN 5TH & 6TH
Bubbles <JNPASQUALE@COMCAST.NET>
WILMINGTON , DE USA - Sunday, March 14, 2004 at 17:22:05 (EST)
TO LARRY "RUSH" - Stop teasing and let us know the names of some of the films you appeared in.
Bob
USA - Sunday, March 14, 2004 at 08:54:14 (EST)
For Joe Mosbrook, the pond is still there Joe on the Ed Oliver Golf Course. It's in front of the 11TH Tee and there are a lot of my golf balls at the bottom of same.
Ray <golfopera@aol.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Friday, March 12, 2004 at 21:06:18 (EST)
Ah, Wilmington in the Fifties. The owner of Victoria's Luncheonette pouring flour and milk on the Black people trying to get served at his counter. The whipping post. Blacks lived in "Their neighborhood" near Allied Kid Co. Igloo the bear living in an 8x8 cage. Every day seeing a kid get hit, slapped or thrown against the wall by a priest at Sallies. Numbers. The 20year high school dropouts who got jobs managing restaurants because "they did a favor for somebody." The kids whose parents ran a two-customer-a-day market being dropped off at school in a new Cadillac. Wilmington winters. Working at Braunsteins and having David Braunstein come down and practice his profanities on the laborers while a lackey held an umbrella over him. (Heck of a guy.) The tiny narrow row houses on Church St. Also remember the James Trotter pretzels. Marie Cassapula. Sally Ann McMahon. Antonio Grabowski. Summers so hot the road tar got goopy. Sneaking our cars onto the old Wilmington Speedway track. 25 cent movies. Hires root beer in the big barrel dispenser. Drugstore soda fountains (Cappeau's). I left Wilmington for the Navy in 1967. Settled in California and acted in films for a while.
Larry Roszkowiak (Rush) <lroszkowiak@its.ucsf.edu>
San Francisco, CA USA - Friday, March 12, 2004 at 15:22:36 (EST)
Remember Del Campos Bakery on Parish St. & Serpe's Bakery on 6th & Madison St.
Tony C <MSN.Com>
Bethany Beach, De USA - Thursday, March 11, 2004 at 23:29:51 (EST)
Family last names, Stucker and McAllister lived on Market St. and 23rd St. Knechts was on the corner, grandparents backyards practically met but there was an alley way between that went from 23rd to Gorden St. I can still see the sweet willams blooming along the fences. wasn't the liquer store across from Knechts on the other side of the street?
marie rhodes <rierhodes@aol.com>
USA - Thursday, March 11, 2004 at 22:31:50 (EST)
Any former students from PS duPont - just read today on the delawareonline.com web site obit that Carolyn Arnold, business teacher, died.
Connie
USA - Wednesday, March 10, 2004 at 11:09:27 (EST)
Joe
USA - Wednesday, March 10, 2004 at 00:45:29 (EST)
Wayne, I knew a Fuzzy in high school, but it was not Al, I think it was Tullie N. I think he went to w.h.s. he lived in the forty acres
Jean
USA - Wednesday, March 10, 2004 at 00:33:06 (EST)
my ex-wife and her sister both went to ST E's, name was Callahan Graduated in 58 & 60
wayne butler
USA - Tuesday, March 09, 2004 at 11:27:05 (EST)
DANCES AT ST.ELIZABETH'S HIGH SCHOOL WERE HELD ON SATURDAYS. BILL HALEY AND THE COMETS APPEARED THERE IN THE LATE 50'S TO A PACKED HOUSE. I WENT THERE TO SCHOOL---NEVER MISSED A DANCE K.F,B.
K.(FITZHARRIS) BURTON <breckslnkid10@yahoo.com>
WILMINGTON, DE. USA - Tuesday, March 09, 2004 at 08:18:48 (EST)
Does anyone who reads these messages regularly, know anybody who worked at the John Wanamaker store on Augustine Cutoff in 1952 or 1953?
Bob Wilson <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Stamford, CT USA - Tuesday, March 09, 2004 at 07:37:08 (EST)
ABOUT GOLDIES DELE. THE MAN THAT DIED IN SIDE OF THE STORE WAS A FOREMAN AT THE BAKERY...HIS NAME WAS PETE LOBRECK (SPELLING OF LAST NAME?) IT WAS IN THE 60'S...BUBBLES
BUBBLES <JNPASQUALE@COMCAST.NET>
WILM., DE USA - Monday, March 08, 2004 at 19:41:40 (EST)
Old age is really catching up to me, those dances on Saturday nights were at St. Elizabeths not Bayard, my mistake, I'll bet everyone's scratching their head saying a dance at Bayard on Saturday night????? SORRY!
Wayne Butler
USA - Monday, March 08, 2004 at 14:59:19 (EST)
And the bakery, it had a big glass window that was right on the corner of ninth and Union and you could see this giant mixer in ther mixing the dough. Across Union St was a delli, and I'm pretty sure the name of it was Goldie's. A lot of working stiffs used to go there and get lunch. I remember somtime in the late 50's a Wilmington policeman went in there to grab lunch and dropped dead in the doorway of a heart attack on the way out. But you never said anything about that in front of the owner, he'd deniy anything like that ever happened in his store. Again I'm not sure but it could have been DePrisco from down on Franklin St, Al, you would have gone to school with his son John at Bayard.
wayne butler
USA - Sunday, March 07, 2004 at 22:25:49 (EST)
While you're adding Bayard, you might add the Saturday night dances there. I started to mention them earlier but for some reason just didn't. Albert, I don't remember you being at those dances but a classmate of ours sold cokes at those dances Ray Morris. He may well know where Joe is, he has an oil business and really gets around. I can get you in touch with him. He was a walking book of knowledge when it came to the whereabouts of people when we were looking for people for our class reunion. We would like to have another one and combine a couple of clases like 59 to 62 or thereabouts. Do you think we could drum up some intrest?
Wayne Butler <twntydasys>
USA - Sunday, March 07, 2004 at 21:51:38 (EST)
At the risk of appearing to be a dominatrix, I must ask of Albert DelPizzo - do you have a sister Anne?
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Sunday, March 07, 2004 at 21:13:45 (EST)
please add thomas f.bayard jr.high school to your list of schools. and also add the george f. huber baking co.at ninth and union street.
albert a. del pizzo <aldelpizzo@aol.com>
hockessin, de USA - Sunday, March 07, 2004 at 19:42:15 (EST)
Hey Al,I remember when they used to call you "FUZZY" in high school, but I have no idea where Joe is now.
wayne butler <twentydasys@aol.com>
USA - Sunday, March 07, 2004 at 14:00:21 (EST)
i have just discovered this site from a friend. i'am a 1959 brown vocational graduate, and have lived in wilmington all my life. i'am looking for an old school friend.does anyone know the where abouts of joe crockett?
albert a. del pizzo <aldelpizzo@aol.com>
hockessin, de USA - Sunday, March 07, 2004 at 12:08:38 (EST)
The flatiron building was across Delaware Ave. and down just a 1/2 block or so from the Central "Y", it was torn down a number of years ago. There is a similar building at 16th & Delaware Ave., at Trolley Square. That one has a bar at the point, with an outside patio, etc. That surviving one I don't think is as narrow as the one closer to downtown was. At it's point, it was barely wide enough for a window, in fact, I think the windows at the point were curved.
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Saturday, March 06, 2004 at 19:08:01 (EST)
Oops, forgot to add that yes, the flatiron building was at 11th and Delaware Ave. Across the avenue was the old Medical Arts Building; my grandfather was a dentist and had his office in that building.
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Saturday, March 06, 2004 at 15:12:21 (EST)
I used to go to an orthodontist on the ground floor of the flatiron building; his office was a few doors up from the "point", though. Isn't the "point" now O'Friel's Tavern?
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Saturday, March 06, 2004 at 15:09:22 (EST)
How about this one: remember the flatiron building; was that at the intersection of 11th St. and Delaware Ave.?
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Saturday, March 06, 2004 at 14:25:41 (EST)
There was a nite club on the hiway at Minquidale called the Bluebird. had some pretty good shows there Husband complimented on her legs on an impersonator but turned out to be a man. This was before all the talk about homos Think it was in the 40`s Lots of the volunteer firehouses either had dances or bingo nites. Now I KNOW this was in the late 30`s. Am I the oldest on here ?
mickey pulley <mickey710@webtv,net>
TX USA - Saturday, March 06, 2004 at 11:37:04 (EST)
Pop's drug store @ 25th & Market was Pop Goldberg. Down the street on the other side of the Strand was Pop Horner's.
Connie A
USA - Saturday, March 06, 2004 at 09:52:19 (EST)
DOES ANYONE REMEMBER THE OLD BLUE HEN DAIRY PLANT ?
DAVE CAUFFMAN <CAUFFMANDS@AOL.COM>
HOCKESSIN, DE USA - Saturday, March 06, 2004 at 07:52:07 (EST)
Yep, it certainly is a shame that about a dozen dominate all of the discussion, good to hear from you, and hope you'll continue to get involved - and there's no need to shout. :)
Bruce <spyderxl@comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Friday, March 05, 2004 at 22:58:26 (EST)
YES DONATA TO BOTH OF YOUR QUESTIONS THE OLD HOWARD JOHNSON OUT ON THE KIRKWOOD HIGHWAY IS STILL THERE BUT NO LONGER HOJO'S. AND THE JACKSON INN IS STILL THERE AND IS ONLY A FEW BLOCKS FROM MY HOME SO PARTAKE OF A FEW SUDS THERE MYSELF. I LOVE THIS SITE BUT ONLY WISH THAT MORE OLD WILMINGTON PEOPLE WOULD GET OFF THEIR DUFF'E AND WRITE IN SOME OF THEIR MEMMORIES, THE SITE SEEMS TO BE DOMINATED BY A DOZEN OR SO PEOPLE, AND THAT'S A SHAME.
Ray <golfpera@aol.com>
wilmington, de USA - Friday, March 05, 2004 at 22:16:28 (EST)
Fred, at one time, all of the bridges over the canal (including St. Georges and the Chesapeake City Bridge) were that type of lift bridge. As far as I know, you can still see remnants of the old amusement park there at Augustine Beach; I don't think anything has ever been done with the land since (of course, I haven't been down that road in years so.....). I can't answer the question merry-Go-Round/ Carousel.
Bruce <spyderxl@comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Friday, March 05, 2004 at 11:42:12 (EST)
I remember Deemer's Beach but the trolley line ran past there. My father rode the trolley line all the way to Augustine Beach in the late 20's. Our parents drove us to Augustine Beach in the 50's over the Reedy Point lift bridge. When we were almost at the Augustine Beach parking area Pop showed us the remains of the Merry-Go-Round back in the green briars to the east of route 9 just before the ginmill. Query, is it a Delawarism to say Merry-Go-Round rather than Carousel?
Fred Best
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, March 05, 2004 at 09:23:17 (EST)
Pat - I don't remember the stained glass window. Could very be there was one. I was always interested in the side yard with the English Ivy and that long front porch.
Connie A
USA - Friday, March 05, 2004 at 08:59:47 (EST)
re Gaylords - I made a mistake. It burned down just before they were to begin building the new store that went up next to Jack Lundy's deli. Re drug store @ 23rd & Market -it came to me last night that it was owned by Freddy Knecht, an acquaintance of my father. Does anyone remember Josephine Leggio's barber shop on 22nd St near Market?
Connie A
USA - Friday, March 05, 2004 at 08:56:52 (EST)
Does anyone remember Deemers Beach just south of New Castle off route 9? It was at the end of the trolley line as I understand many parks were in those days. Supposedly this was to get riders on weekends, the trolley built parks like Shellpot and others. About Deemers, Our property ajoins the old park, I wonder if anyone has pictures especially those with the lighthouse in the background. The lighthouse stands on our property and I would like to see any pictures of the old park.
Wayne Butler <twntydasys@aol.com>
USA - Friday, March 05, 2004 at 08:20:46 (EST)
Does any one remember getting their picture taken on a pony in front of their house? I was 3 years old in 1958 and had my picture taken on that pony. I lived on the 1500 block of Lancaster Ave. MY neighbors daughter next to us had her picture taken too. She and I were the same age.
Sharon Bolt <sbuchanan1127@comcast.net>
Newark, De USA - Friday, March 05, 2004 at 00:58:08 (EST)
Lem Winchester! You must be a jazz fan, Francis. I played a set or two with Lem when he was at one of the Friday night jam sessions at Horn & Hardart at the north end of the Wilmington Merchandise Mart. What a great talent was lost in his unfortunate accident. Gerry Berkowitz used to play at some of the fraternity dances at the U. of D. also. Not near as good as Lem, but very capable. I can still picture Lem directing traffic at Eleventh and Market... he'd always have a smile and a wave for you.
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Thursday, March 04, 2004 at 20:37:28 (EST)
Anyone remember Eddie Gamms dance hall down at Black cat. Then came the Cotton Club with all black shows
mickey pulley <mickey710@webtv.net>
TX USA - Thursday, March 04, 2004 at 18:48:42 (EST)
Does anyone remember going to the Parkway Lounge on the Dupont Highway before you get to Minquedale(?)? Paul (Richardson) & Ray (Detoro). Gerry Berkowitz, Lem Winchester and, once in a while, some named personality, like Johnny Ray, Bob Eberle, etc. played there. Rosemary Clooney sang there once. Were there other names that you remember?
Francis P. <ffio7532@att.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, March 04, 2004 at 18:05:38 (EST)
Connie, the drugstore at 23rd and Market was owned by Fred Knecht as far back as I can remember. He and his wife had a drugstore at the front entrance with a soda fountain and the side of the building was a small liquor store.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Thursday, March 04, 2004 at 15:36:56 (EST)
No, Bruce, different Buckley family than Buckley's Tavern. Connie, I seem to remember that long porch near Dr. Voss now that I think about it. Wasn't there a stained glass window over the front door?
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Thursday, March 04, 2004 at 11:26:07 (EST)
Does anyone remember the Bert and Harry Piels (beer) commercials on TV during the 50s?
Connie A
USA - Thursday, March 04, 2004 at 11:12:38 (EST)
I remember Gaylords Department Store, Miller Road. It burned down just before it was to be razed. They rebuilt at the other end of the parking lot.
Connie A
USA - Thursday, March 04, 2004 at 10:57:45 (EST)
ARNIES HAMBURGERS -MILLER RD
GERRY SAMSON <ERM3511@AOL.COM>
WILM, DE USA - Thursday, March 04, 2004 at 10:12:24 (EST)
I remember the name Dr Voss when I was a small child. The building was a hotel during the mid 60s. She also owned the tavern and the string of garages behind that reached all the way back to Tatnall. Was the drug store at 23rd & Market run by a Kelleher?
Connie A
USA - Thursday, March 04, 2004 at 10:06:27 (EST)
BROWNS DRUG STORE - CONCORD PIKE AND CONCORD AVE - MC DANIEL HEIGHTS
GERRY SAMSON <ERM3511@AOL.COM>
WILM, DE USA - Thursday, March 04, 2004 at 10:01:35 (EST)
Maiden name was Heathcote. My father drove taxi for many years
mickey pulley
USA - Wednesday, March 03, 2004 at 23:38:31 (EST)
.....And, I'm assuming that Elizabeth Buckley was one of the Buckleys of Greenville, for whom Buckley's Tavern is named after.......?
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Wednesday, March 03, 2004 at 19:56:21 (EST)
Lippincott's, yes. Clem Lippincott married Elizabeth Buckley and they lived out on the Kennett Pike. (Now, I sound just like my Mother who could remember everyone's maiden name). Mickey, they must have been beautiful shoes cause that was a very nice store. Elizabeth was the aunt of a very good friend of mine.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Wednesday, March 03, 2004 at 19:18:43 (EST)
How about Lippincotts on E Market just below 4th and Topkis sewing factory where they made rayon tee shirts, mens shorts and pajamas I got my first pair of high heeled shoes, brown suede pumps for $2 at Lippincotts.
mickey pulley
TX USA - Wednesday, March 03, 2004 at 18:05:49 (EST)
The double house next to Dr. Postle's was Dr. Norwood Voss home and office. I believe next to that was Pat Kelleher's tavern on the main floor. Maybe the upstairs was a hotel - I don't remember. Pat Kelleher's daughter, Peg, married Joe Becker and they had Becker's at Vandever Ave. and Market.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Wednesday, March 03, 2004 at 16:37:48 (EST)
Ruth, Could your great grandparents have lived on the southeast corner of Lindsay Road and Brandywine Blvd? That is about 2 to 3 blocks from the Mt. Pleasant school on Duncan Road. If I remember correctly, which is sometimes questionable now, there were a number of blue spruce on that lot in the '40's.
Delmer <barnicho@msn.com>
Cincinnati, USA - Wednesday, March 03, 2004 at 10:34:25 (EST)
Hey, Pat - do you remember the name of the hotel on the west side of Market St between 22nd & 23rd streets? It was the building with the full length front porch. It was next to Doctor Post or Postal's house with all the roses & the Purple Martin house. If so, can you remember the name of the woman who owned it?
Connie A
USA - Wednesday, March 03, 2004 at 10:08:11 (EST)
The Hearn's on Market Street was a restaurant; the Washington Street store was a supermarket. When I was very young my parents bought a refrigerator at the Sears @ 7th & Shipley. Piane's sub shop at 2130 Market was first an Italian restaurant run by Bob Piane's parents.
Connie A
USA - Tuesday, March 02, 2004 at 09:25:00 (EST)
Wayne I remember Sears very well.I was a postal telegraph messenger at eigth and shipley in the late thirtys.
bill rogers <brogers@delanet.com>
wilm, de USA - Monday, March 01, 2004 at 20:30:29 (EST)
I'm surprised that throughout all of this no one has mentioned Sears at 7th and Shipley on the northwest corner. I may be mistaken and it may have been 6th and Shipley but it was right there on the corner with a fancy trim around the first floor on the outside. No I am not thinking of Crosby and Hill I remember seeing remaims of that building but not the business itself
Wayne Butler <Twntydasys@aol.com>
USA - Monday, March 01, 2004 at 20:10:11 (EST)
That was hokey pokey sorry
mickey
USA - Monday, March 01, 2004 at 19:00:24 (EST)
About the hokey pokey snowballs. My great Uncle had a horse and wagon with his snowballs. Went up and down the alleys calling out HOJEY POKEY SNOWBALLS you took your own container These were the alleys to the back yards of the Flats. There also were the hucksters calling out theirs wares. To far back for memories ?
mickey pulley <mickey710@webtv.net>
TX USA - Monday, March 01, 2004 at 18:57:46 (EST)
I didn't know there was a Hearns on Market St. - the only ones I remember were the one at Washington St. & Concord Ave. and the one on the Phila. Pike just north of Silverside Road in Brandywine Hundred. Also I think there was a Nord's grocery store at the north east corner of 10th & Adams; related to the hardware folks?
butch schilling <fschilling@isacclaims.com>
mt. pleasant, , sc USA - Monday, March 01, 2004 at 14:10:45 (EST)
CORRECTION: They used a SCRAPER not a CRAPER
Al Cicc
USA - Monday, March 01, 2004 at 14:01:46 (EST)
Remember the "Hokey Pokey Snowballs" young kids sold during the summer months. They would have a block of ice in their wagon and several bottles of syrup. They would scrape the ice with a craper designed for this particular purpose, place the shaved ice in a cup or dish then shake your favorite syrup on it. (Very Refreshing)
Al Cicc <alfonose@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, March 01, 2004 at 13:57:02 (EST)
Connie, Hearn's Restaurant was on the east side of Market St. The soda shop next to the Richardson Variety Store was not Hearn's. I don't remember the name of it, but it was there in the 40's and 50's. At the corner of 20th and Market Sts. on the west side was the American Store. The manager was Frank Kautz. On 20th St. just around the corner was Rose Corrigan's. She had a penny candy and religious articles store. Across 20th St. from the American Store was another grocery store, Majestic Market. Another shop that hasn't been mentioned was Piane's Sub Shop. It was between 22nd and Vandever Ave. on the east side of Market St.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Monday, March 01, 2004 at 13:43:05 (EST)
Yes, it's just the aerial/filler shots that are Wilmington that serve as "Arcadia" in Joan of Arcadia. And this past Friday night, they used a picture of what used to be called Delaware Division (where I was born :)). I definitely recognized that picture! I really enjoy viewing the posts here and keeping up with everyone's memories. Many times they have jogged things in my memory too. Here's something that I'd like to know and I hope someone out there can help! My great grandparents lived in a house in Bellefonte, not far from the Mt. Pleasant Junior High (that used to be simply Mt. Pleasant School); I can't remember what their address was, though! I do know that when they moved there, 1937, the development was just being built and they moved into one of the first houses; they had a corner lot and it had blue spruce on the corner. Thanks in advance, Ruth
Ruth <zavijah@earthlink.net>
USA - Monday, March 01, 2004 at 12:38:40 (EST)
The News Journal columnist who lived in Arden was Bill Frank.
Connie A
USA - Monday, March 01, 2004 at 10:17:05 (EST)
re Donut Shops - there was one on Market between 29th & 30th Streets. Does anyone remember the name?
Connie A
USA - Monday, March 01, 2004 at 10:14:04 (EST)
I too remember Pyne's cracks about Dave, the "Meathead" donut shop owner. Pyne also used to unmercifully tease the local columnist for the WILMINGTON MORNING NEWS, back in those days. I think his name was Bill something, he lived in Arden, and next to Al Cartwright, was one of the leading news media celebrities of New Castle County back in those days.
Bob <wilso127@yahoo.com>
USA - Monday, March 01, 2004 at 10:11:42 (EST)
Joe Pyne called everybody a meathead! I don't remember the donut shop.
Connie A
USA - Monday, March 01, 2004 at 10:05:30 (EST)
On up Market Street from Beckers Corner I think was Dave Winger's Tender-Maid Doughnut Shop which was the main sponsor for Joe Pyne's "It's Your Nickel" show, if I'm not mistaken - think he used to call Winger a "meathead"
butch schilling <fschilling@isacclaims.com>
Mt. Pleasant, SC USA - Monday, March 01, 2004 at 10:02:29 (EST)
Hearn's Restaurant was on the same block as G & G. During the 40s there was a fish store on that block with a dirt floor and barrels of smelly stuff outside and inside. Then down the street on the opposite corner was a butcher shop with sawdust on the wooden floor. On the other corner, across from the butcher shop, was a mom & pop grocer with goods that sat outside 24 hours. The butcher shop later became a pet shop and beside them was Richardson's Variety Store and on the other side of Richardson's was a soda fountain. Was that called Hearn's? Across the street from them (same side as G & G) was an old building which had a glass enclosed section of the original log building. Re Hearns - I have a photo of Mayor Hearn at the pushmobile derby on (Lea Blvd?) in early 50s. Joe Pyne was there too. There was also a Hearn's super market at Washington St. and Concord Ave. My mother bought what turned out to be horse or monkey meat there during the war.
Connie A
USA - Monday, March 01, 2004 at 09:52:39 (EST)

Yes, Hearn's was in the same block. The other businesses I remember were Martin Cleaners, Henry Glaezer's glass shop, Norton's Fish Market, Nord's Hardware Store, and Russo's Tavern. These were all south of Vandever Ave. on down to 19th St. on the east side of Market St. In later years, Mammele's had a paint store along there. I believe Mammele's started in the late 40's or early 50's.
Pa LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Monday, March 01, 2004 at 07:47:22 (EST)