(Archive
#33: September 1, 2006 to September 30,
2006 entries)
does anybody here remember the saint elizabeth friday night dances
that went on from the mid 60's to the early 70's????? it was the place
to go every friday night!!!
oldschool55 <oldschool55@verizon.net>
wilmington, de USA - Saturday, September 30, 2006 at 20:29:18 (EDT)
THERE WAS A SUSAN CULVER THAT WENT TO HARLAND THEN PS SHE GRADUATED
FROM PS IN 1954 I THINK.DOES ANYONE REMEMBER HER?
DAVE CAUFFMAN <CAUFFMANDS@AOL.COM>
HOCKESSIN, DE USA - Saturday, September 30, 2006 at 19:02:10 (EDT)
What a hoot. Your mother hit you with a yardstick for cutting school.
Sacred Heart was a popular place when we were kids. I remember sitting
on the school steps and playing Hearts. We also have a place downstate......not
retired yet; but, love it there!!!
Phyllis <ccint@aol.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Friday, September 29, 2006 at 19:06:36 (EDT)
My grandfather worked at Allied Kidd in the 50's or 60's. I read where
a few people had mentioned the tannieries and especially the smell! If
anybody has more info or pictures or anything I would be interested to
hear about it. My grandfathers name was John Bonk.
Chris Spence <cspence@hudsonconsultants.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, September 29, 2006 at 15:05:57 (EDT)
Does anyone remember a girl from the fifties named Jane Culver? I must
have known her from Prices Run. I don't remember her at all from high school
at P. S. DuPont. She took me to her apartment one day, I believe near 22nd & Market,
and played a record called Celery Stalks At Midnight - what a great recording
that was! Also, Bunny Benrrigan's - I Can't Get Started With You. How about
Minnie Jacobs' store also around 22nd & Market. Sold everything, socks,
shoe strings, hair nets, candy, ice cream, groceries, soup to nuts, you
name it. Becker's ice cream store was on the corner where Hutton St., Vandever
Ave. and Market St. converged. Buena Vista ran parallel to Hutton and was
one block south of Hutton, going down Vandever Ave. Anyone remember Mousley's
Row? Temple's Drug Store? - like Enright's, a real soda fountain and real
great ice cream sodas and milk shakes. Love to have it all back.
Phyllis B <PBoyd52@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, September 29, 2006 at 14:25:16 (EDT)
Ralph, I don't know if Bill Culver is related. I do know he coincidentally
graduated from PS the same year as my mother, 1950. She married Merrill
Culver down in Salisbury, however. I did have a great uncle Culver who
owned Culver's Flower Shop in Wilmington.
Phil Culver <jpculver33@msn.com>
Layton, UT USA - Friday, September 29, 2006 at 13:05:52 (EDT)
Shirley, our yardstick was kept in the same place, infact I still keep
mine there now .
Jean <usa>
wilm, de USA - Thursday, September 28, 2006 at 15:36:58 (EDT)
Ray Jubb, my mother kept the yardstick over the dining room doorway.
When she came out of the kitchen with her arm reaching up, we all ran like
hell! Ralph Pryor, Bill Culver married one of my best friends, Shirley
Christy. She lived in the next block down from us on Vandever Avenue. Not
sure where they are right now. She worked as Secretary at Concord High
School when my husband was a teacher there. He worked at a bank in Wilmington
early on. Shirl
Shirley Hudson Jester <ujest110@aol.com>
Newark, DE USA - Wednesday, September 27, 2006 at 23:20:50 (EDT)
HEY PHIL CULVER, ARE YOU ANY RELATION TO BILL CULVER ? BILL WENT TO
P .S. IN THE EARLY 50, S. REAL NICE GUY.
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK@AOL.COM>
TARPON SPRINGS , FL USA - Wednesday, September 27, 2006 at 17:56:55 (EDT)
Bruce...I knew the Kwiatkowski's well. I lived at 103 So. Jackson and
they lived at 111. I then moved to 13 So. Jackson until I married in 1955.
Rayl Jubb <golfopera@aol.com>
wilmington, de USA - Wednesday, September 27, 2006 at 17:53:32 (EDT)
Ray, I knew a guy named Ronnie Kwiatkowski who lived somewhere in the
first block of S. Jackson Street. He and I drove Snow White Ice Cream trucks
for Ed Szubielski in 1962.
Butch Schilling <fschilling@isacclaims.com>
Mount Pleasant, SC USA - Wednesday, September 27, 2006 at 13:47:28 (EDT)
Speaking of playing basketball in Sacred Heart School playground, I
remember very vividly being in the 9TH grade at WHS and cutting classes
in one of the warmer Months of the year to play basketball there. One day
while playing basketball there I felt a sharp pain in the back of my head,
turned around and found my dear Mother standing there with a yard stick.
Mr. Allen had called her and asked her where I was. To this day I don't
know how she found me, I guess Mothers just have there secret ways. She
smacked me all the home from there with that yard stick, and I lived at
Read and Jackson Streets in 1949. And Patton and I still see each other
down State where He lives, We trade Irish Music CD's and video's once in
a while, He has a huge coillection.
Ray Jubb <golfopera@aol.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Wednesday, September 27, 2006 at 13:42:23 (EDT)
DUH - YUP, YUP! They were in Li'l Abner. I'll email you what little
I know about Bruce.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, September 27, 2006 at 13:13:45 (EDT)
Connie, weren't the schmoos in L'il Abner? Also, have you heard anything
about Bruce?
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Wednesday, September 27, 2006 at 11:38:05 (EDT)
Shmoos were in the Dick Tracey comic strip. Very friendly critturs -
look them up on the web and see a pic. They resembled the shape of a bowling
pin.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, September 27, 2006 at 10:28:33 (EDT)
Hi: I was viewing a movie the other day and heard a word which triggered
a vague memory of something from my childhood in Wilmington. I nweed help
with this. Does anyone remember a set of drnking glasses in late 40's or
early fifties with characters on the glasses named Shmoo or Schmoo. Tell
me I did not imagine this.
Take care
George
George <george091639@msn.com>
Ocean View, DE USA - Wednesday, September 27, 2006 at 09:48:09 (EDT)
I remember Googie Patton playing basketball in Sacred Heart playground.
It was in the early 50s. He was an avid fan and also played with Bernie
Schneider and Busterfield....Wow that was a few years ago.
Phyllis Glenn Ventresca <ccint @aol.com>
wilm, de USA - Tuesday, September 26, 2006 at 23:26:00 (EDT)
Hey Ralph Pryor, Wilmington High only won those games with PS thru the
grace and wisdom of the PS team. We all knew how important it was to build
up your esteem and PS did what it could by letting you win. Now, it's a
different story with Sallies, especially when PS whupped up on them in
1969. Just kidding Ralph. Glad to read your stories.
phil
phil culver <jpculver33@msn.com>
Layton, ut USA - Tuesday, September 26, 2006 at 18:05:55 (EDT)
ON SEPT 23RD,THIS PAST SATURDAY' WE CELEBRATED ST.ELIZABETH'S 50 YEAR
RE-UNION. WHO EVER THOUGHT WE WOULD BE CELEBRATING THAT MANY YEARS. WE
HAD 40 IN ATTENDANCE. WHAT A BLAST FROM THE PAST. IT TOOK AWHILE FOR US
TO GET RE -ACQUAINTED----AFTER ALL 50 YEARS IS A LONG TIME. AS MY HUSBAND
SAID WE ALL HELD UP PRETTY GOOD.I THINK I AM INCLINED TO AGREE WITH HIM.
KAY BURTON WELLS
Kay Burton Wells <breckslnkid12@yahoo.com>
Pike Creek, De USA - Tuesday, September 26, 2006 at 16:37:00 (EDT)
TO ALL THE SPORT LOVING PEOPLE OF WILMINGTON, DE AND TO THOSE UPROOTED
TO OTHER STATES ! I WAS SHOCKED TO LEARN THAT MY GOOD FRIEND OF ABOUT 60
YEARS--JIM GOOGIE PATTON WAS NEVER INDUCTED INTO THE DEL. SPORTS HALL OF
FAME !HERE IS A MAN WHO INVENTED THE JUMP SHOT IN BASKET BALL . YOU RED
DEVIL FANS KNOW HOW MANY TIMES HE MADE A GREAT SHOT TO WIN FOR OL WILMINTON
HIGH RED DEVILS ! AND P.S. DUPONTERS KNOW HOW MANY TIMES YOU WENT HOME
IN SHOCK AFTER GOOGIE PATTON DUNKED IN A BIG ONE TO BEAT YOU. ---NOW THAT
WAS BASKET BALL. BUT I ONCE SAW HIM HIT A BASE BALL OVER THE CENTER FIELD
FENCE AT 2ND. AND DUPONT ST. AND ANY ONE WHO EVER PLAYED ON THAT FIELD
KNOW ITS OVER 400 FT. !--AND HE WAS ONLY ABOUT 17 YRS. OLD AT THE TIME
. WILMINGTON HIGH FOOT BALL TEAM PLAYED CHESTER HIGH IN THERE NEW STADUM
ABOUT 1950, SINCE IT WAS THE FIRST GAME TO EVER BE PLAYED THERE , THERE
WAS PLENTY OF FAN FARE BEFORE THE GAME. ----THE ONLY FANFARE AFTER THE
GAME WAS HIGHSCHOOL REDDEVILS YELLING AND CHEERING IT UP. WHY ? BECAUSE
THE INCREDIBLE JIM GOOGIE PATTON CAUGHT A 45 YARD PASS FROM CLARK JESTER(
BETWEEN TWO DEFENDERS) HE JUMPED HIGH AND CAME DOWN IN THE END ZONE FOR
THE WINNING TOUCH DOWN WITH 20 SEC. LEFT IN THE GAME ! I WAS THERE AND
OVER THE YEARS I HAVE LOVED TELLING SPORTS LOVERS THE STORY .I BELIEVE
GOOGIE WAS OFFERED SCHOLRSHIPS TO MANY OF THE TOP COLLEGES IN THE COUNTRY.
HE REFUSED THE SCHOLRSHIP , AND DECIDED TO WORK FOR THE DUPNT CO. IN DEL..
GOOGIE STILL LIVES IN DEL. AND IS A HAPPY MARRIED MAN . BUT JIM GOOGIE
PATTON GOT THE SHAFT. I FOR ONE WOULD LIKE TO KNOW HOW WE CAN CORRECT THIS
WRONG. ANY IDEAS ? JIM PATTON FOR ENROLLMENT INTO THE DEL. SPORTS HALL
OF FAME !
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK@AOL.COM>
TARPON SPRINGS, FL USA - Tuesday, September 26, 2006 at 11:38:27 (EDT)
I also remember the G and G being called the Gus and Gus. (We kids referred
to it as Greasy Gus and Greasy Guts) It was run by Greeks who had a nephew
who went to Warner the same time we did. He didn't speak any English. He
died at a young age while walking up Market Street.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Tuesday, September 26, 2006 at 09:33:45 (EDT)
Enright's was on the corner of 22nd and Market, across the street from
Piane's
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Tuesday, September 26, 2006 at 08:59:12 (EDT)
interesting - Sept 26 "1701 The first survey of the twelve mile circle
boundary of northern Delaware was made by Isaac Taylor and Thomas Pierson
using New Castle
Courthouse's spire as its center."
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Tuesday, September 26, 2006 at 08:57:30 (EDT)
To Jim Batty: Hey Jim - thanks for the reminder about the skating rink
at Prices Run. I had my first real date there with a girl named Vivian.
The crazy thing is that I didn't know how to ice skate. It must have not
been to terrible for her because we dated on & off for a few years.
Swifty <williamwswift@aol.com>
York, PA USA - Monday, September 25, 2006 at 20:33:24 (EDT)
The G&G Restaurant on Market St. my parents always called it Gus and
Gus. That may be a name they came up with. Didn't the restaurant have a
red neon sign in the window that said something like "Hot Texas Wieners?" ...Bob
Robert J. McKelvey <windsorme2@verizon.net>
Cape May, N.J. USA - Monday, September 25, 2006 at 19:33:18 (EDT)
Everytime I see Prices Run Pool mentioned, I remember how they use to
put the chlorine in by dumping it out of a big 5 gallown glass bottle off
the back of a row boat. Also remember the diving tower out in the middle
of the deep end, figurinng, if you can swim out to it, it was OK to dive.
During the early 50's, the locker room lady was Miss Reese. Also, we use
to walk from Eastlake out to Warner & on the way home we stopped at Enright's
on the corner of 19 or 20th (??) & Market --real fountain sodas & real
milkshakes. Speaking of Price's Run--does anyone remember the ice skating
rink on top of the hill up from the pool??
Jim Batty <travelcompany@att.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, September 25, 2006 at 18:47:43 (EDT)
Bruce - We walked from Market Street down to George Gray Elementary
(just a block from the Printz). Only a suicidale person would walk that
route these days. I believe it was too dangerous about 20 years ago, at
the least!
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, September 25, 2006 at 18:32:41 (EDT)
Connie, Your post about Ursuline Academy got mt attention. I lived directly
across from Ursuline at 1115 N. Franklin. In fact I went to Kindergarten
through 2nd grade in the mid 1950's at the elementery school that was in
back of the main building. After there I went to Sacred Heart School on
10th Street. I walked to and from school every day. I haven't lived in
Wilm. for awhile, but I doubt you would want a young boy making that walk
today by themselves. We used to have fun sneaking into the Ingleside gardens
and playing. My father lived at the Ingleside retirement building until
his death a few years ago. Funny, he lived a block away when he was younger
and spent the last couple years of his life down the street.
Bruce <bc@houston.rr.com>
Sugarland, TX USA - Monday, September 25, 2006 at 14:51:12 (EDT)
Sept 25 "1927 Ursuline Academy, a school for Catholic girls, opened
in
Wilmington on Pennsylvania Avenue."
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, September 25, 2006 at 10:21:56 (EDT)
When I used to walk to Warner Jr High, and back, we always stopped at
a little place called G&G on Market Street, on our way home, just down
from Becker's corner. They had the BEST hot dogs, really sloppy and good!!!
Phyllis, I think Mrs. Boggs was just at Price's Run Pool to keep us from
sneaking in in the afternoons when you had to pay. Is she the one we used
to holler "Locker Lady" to open our lockers? I'm not sure. Maybe she was
the lady who was in charge of the playground and stuff. I do remember Joe
(Bradley) The Park Guard! He always chased me home. I don't know why. I
was such a good kid! NOT!!!! Obit in the paper this week for Norwood Hudson.
He and his sister, Mary Alice, and brother, Earl, lived over the shoe repair
shop across from Becker's Corner. He was the "older" brother. Shirley
Shirley Hudson Jester <ujest110@aol.com>
Newark, DE USA - Sunday, September 24, 2006 at 22:02:10 (EDT)
Could that have been Louie's Shoe repair shop at corner of Vandever
and Buena Vista? The corner was called Becker's corner.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, September 24, 2006 at 17:57:16 (EDT)
Hi everybody! Pat Patton, Boyd is my married name. Look on Page 2 -
class pictures in your yearbook. I'm just learning the computer. Not set
up for E-mail yet. Yes, Shirley, the piano was our life on Church St. Remember
Prices Run, swimming pool tower, Mrs. Boggs, Joe the cop? Exactly what
was Mrs. Boggs' function anyway? Loved that park - my 2nd home. Polio scares
- summers of '44 thru '47 that I recall. What was the name of the store
corner of Vandever Ave. & Buena Vista? Had those wonderful "sloppy" hamburgers.
Remember the 3 pictures that hung over the counter at Govatos? One was
Barbara Stanwyck, one was the coca-cola girl (winked at you as you walked
by, but who was the 3rd girl? Virginia Grey, Ellen Drew (actresses) or
someone else?? Hello Bob Wilson, Joann & Bob Hines. The East side - I loved
it. Walked everywhere. Strand theater, Becker's, Hearn's Restaurant! See
ya.
Phyllis B <PBoyd52@Comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, September 24, 2006 at 16:52:04 (EDT)
I remember once climbing under the big top tent at Prices Corner. Once
under, my friend an I saw we were right next to the "ladies" dressing room
for the strip show and we could see them dressing. While we began to enjoy
the impromptu entertainment, a very, very big black man said, "Wha' chu
boys doin' here?" He grabbed us both by the collar and, to our amazement,
dragged us down the aisle of the strip show to the delight of those assembled.
However, he forced us down in two seats in the front row and walked away!
We thought we were in for an azz kickin' but he took pity on two teens,
I guess. I don't know if it was the Straits Show or another...too long
ago.
jim rambo <rammymex@yahoo.com>
ajijic, jalisco Mexico - Sunday, September 24, 2006 at 11:44:58 (EDT)
Sept 24 "1958 Most Rev. Michael W. Hyle, DD, was named Catholic Bishop
of
Wilmington."
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, September 24, 2006 at 08:34:49 (EDT)
I can recall driving the family's 1940 Plymouth at the Wilmington Ball
Park lot when I was about 15 years old. My younger brother and I learned
how to operate the clutch smoothly and brake to a smooth stop at a designated
point. These were great times for us young teenagers. Learning the gear
shift and the mechanical operation of the manual choke. We only got to
drive a few minutes each, but it the first time we had ever driven a car.
I always remembered my father taking the time to help us learn at that
early age. ...Bob
Robert J. McKelvey <windsorme2@verizon.net>
Cape May, N.J. USA - Saturday, September 23, 2006 at 10:43:23 (EDT)
I remember getting one of those little chameleon pins back in the 40's.
I got it at a carnival near 30th and Gov. Printz Blvd. As I recall, it
died shortly after I got it. Now, I have them all over my yard here in
Florida.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Saturday, September 23, 2006 at 08:11:02 (EDT)
My Mom from time to time, has talked about the little chameleon that
she had on the chain. She said that they pinned them on their blouse and
they changed colors. I asked her if it died shortly after she bought it
and she said that it lived for a long time but finally ran away (smart
chameleon). Gosh, I've never heard of anything like this. I do remember
going to the Strates shows when they came to town. At the time, they were
always over to Prices Corner on the lot where the Acme is now.
Marge <scooter1120@msn.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Saturday, September 23, 2006 at 07:30:04 (EDT)
Regarding carnivals, I remember another outfit called World of Mirth.
I was living on Maryland Avenue at the time and we watched the individual
orange carnival wagons come up Maryland Avenue towards Richardson Park.
They came in to Wilmington by rail and came from the siding down by the
NVF and DuPont shops.
George <george091639@msn.com>
Ocean View, DE USA - Friday, September 22, 2006 at 10:12:02 (EDT)
I vaguely remember hearing of a carnival being at the foot of Madison,
but we were in Brandywine Village so Prices Run was our carnival trip.
Are you a DOWOP fan? Those were the good old days. It seems everytime they
air it on a certain PBS fund drive they exceed their goal!
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, September 22, 2006 at 10:11:28 (EDT)
I remember the Strates Shows being at the foot of madison in Wilm in
the mid to late fifties.Besides te other attractions they had Club Harlem.
Dave Missimer <doowopda@webtv.org>
wilmington, de USA - Thursday, September 21, 2006 at 22:37:13 (EDT)
Bruce, I remember the carnivals being at the ball park area and also
near the Pennsylvania train station, and also near Newport. I believe it
was the James E. Strates show, not sure of the spelling of the last name.
I also recall buying a chameleon, that was fastened with a thread that
was secured to my lapel with a safety pin. It would change color to try
and blend in with it's background. I enjoyed the rides and side shoes and
the barkers, and it felt neat to walk on all the sawdust under foot. I
always liked the carnival much better than the circus. ...Bob
Robert J. McKelvey <windsorme2@verizon.net>
Cape May, N.J. USA - Thursday, September 21, 2006 at 14:22:25 (EDT)
Anybody remember the Strates Show carnival at Prices Corner ? They sold
chameleons in boxes there. I remember bringing one home and not being allowed
to keep it inside. Now where I live in Texas I see the lizards all the
time in my garden.
Bruce <bc@houston.rr.com>
Sugarland, TX USA - Thursday, September 21, 2006 at 13:14:32 (EDT)
Those car dealers used the spotlights up to the mid 50's, I'm sure.
When we saw them we would hike out to Delaware Avenue to see the new cars.
I remember seeing the '55 Pontiacs out there and others. The salesmen would
make sure that we all had some of the free sodas and pretzels they had
on hand. Nobody uses those spotlights for advertising today, do they?
jim rambo <rammymex@yahoo.com>
ajijic, jalisco Mexico - Thursday, September 21, 2006 at 12:09:57 (EDT)
Another thing is remember is seeing the light in the sky coming from
the CARNIVAL AT PRICE'S CORNER. There was a large empty field there, back
then.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, September 21, 2006 at 11:48:35 (EDT)
Back in '54 or '55, late in the evening, an Air National Guard jet crashed
into the Newark Lumber Company on East Main Street. I saw the light from
the flames on the horizon, and thought at first it was one of those war-surplus
seachlights. The fire was spectacular, and the place burned to the ground
because of all the wood. Miraculously, no one was injured (the crew had
ejected from the plane). Only fire I ever saw that approached that one
was the Wilmington Sas and Door conflag from a few years earlier.
Robert J Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Thursday, September 21, 2006 at 10:01:10 (EDT)
I remember seeing lights coming from the New Castle area and someone
said it was from the airport. And we, too, spent every evening outdoors
playing. Combined with walking about a mile to school everyday there was
no way we could get overweight. Pity the children of today who are required
to take a mind numbing ride on a smelly noisy bus early in the morning
to get to school.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, September 21, 2006 at 08:57:07 (EDT)
I remember in the late 40's car dealerships would use war surplus searchlights
to illuminate the Wilmington sky at night as an advertising gimmick. I
also recall it being used near the ball park to call attention to the carnival.
We kids, young teenagers would follow to the source of the lights. We were
outside in the early evenings before we had TV sets at home. ...Bob
Robert J. McKelvey <windsorme2@verizon.net>
Cape May, N.J. USA - Wednesday, September 20, 2006 at 18:00:39 (EDT)
WAYNE - to get these tidbids in your email every day, go to this site
http://www.state.de.us/sos/dpa/thisday.shtml
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, September 20, 2006 at 13:17:49 (EDT)
Connie, You should get a job with the News Journal papers. These little
tidbits you come up with on an almost daily basis about what happened on
this day in history, would be a welcome addition to that rag tag of what
we have to put up with as a newspaper. Have you ever noticed that any historical
references made in said paper must have been written by a twelve year old
who lives in Buffalo. Surely they are not getting their information from
anyone who actually lived in Delaware. It would be to their advantage to
hire someone like you who knows the state, and not only what's going on
but, what went on here in Delaware
Wayne <twntydasys@aol.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Wednesday, September 20, 2006 at 12:26:13 (EDT)
WE WERE THE FIRST TO HAVE A TV ON OUR BLOCK (PULLMAN PLACE ) PEOPLE
WOULD STAND OUTSIDE OF OUR WINDOW AND LOOK IN TO SEE IT.LATE 40S I THINK
DAVE CAUFFMAN <CAUFFMANDS@AOL.COM>
HOCKESSIN, DE USA - Wednesday, September 20, 2006 at 10:14:09 (EDT)
Sept 20 1920 Wilmington's newspapers, Morning News and Evening Journal,
joined
together and formed the News-Journal Company.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, September 20, 2006 at 09:29:45 (EDT)
Shirley Ujest (I love that!) - I saw and spoke with your brother Bob
at our 50th class reunion in 2002. At that reunion, we took a tour of the
old PS building, and I wondered what had ever happened to all of the class
pennants that once hung from the ceiling of the boys' gym. Recently, I
have been told that there is a man in Wilmington who was once a PS vice-principal
who has charge of a treasure trove of old PS Dynamiter stuff that was locked
away when the school was converted to a Middle School and changed to the
Dolphin as its logo.
Robert J Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Wednesday, September 20, 2006 at 08:28:55 (EDT)
Pat - glad you're back with us. Hear you are going to be stuck in traffic
on Route 1 in Rehoboth for a while. Doesn't sound good. I'm sure you know
Phyllis, but I'll let her contact you with her maiden name. Hi to Googie!
Bob Wilson, you must know my brother who was in your class at PS (1952),
Bob Hudson. He comes down to your neck of the woods several times a year
to play golf at Myrtle Beach SC. Good to see so many Dynamiters on this
website. Let's get those Red Devils! Shirley
shirley hudson jester <ujest110@aol.com>
newark, DE USA - Tuesday, September 19, 2006 at 14:28:43 (EDT)
Robert Wilson, Joanne & Bob Hines. Shirley Jester- Hello from a fellow
'52 P.S.duPont graduate. Trying to remember Phyllis Boyd but not listed
in yearbook. Is Boyd your married name? Remember Pat Boyd from Wilmington
High. Jim(Googie) Patton also sends regards to fellow High School classmates,
'52. Also, a big Hello to Ralph Pryor and glad that you are back. I have
been laid up for awhile.Looking forward to a great football season. I remember
the old Blue Rocks as well since we lived in the area. Also the Wilmington
High and P.S. thanksgiving games.Regards to all.
Pat Paisley Patton <pattonpj72@comcast.net>
Rehoboth Beach, DE USA - Tuesday, September 19, 2006 at 13:51:18 (EDT)
My first memory of seeing TV was back in the late 40's-early 50's. We
lived between 22nd and 23rd on Tatnall and our neighbor, Ed Hindsley, had
one of the first TV's. We all lived in row houses and when Mr. Hindsley
went out in the evening he would bring his TV out his front window and
into our front livingroom window and place the TV on top of my father's
big old floor model radio. We then were able to enjoy Uncle Miltie's Texaco
Theatre, etc. Those were the days!
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Tuesday, September 19, 2006 at 13:49:27 (EDT)
Phyllis Boyd - Hello, fellow alumna-to-an-alumnus of PSduP Class of
1952. Saw you at the 50th Reunion in 2002. First TV-watching experiences
I had in Wilmington were in 1949 1), at "Pinky" Seres' parents' home above
their Kosher Deli at 26th and Jefferson, for Milton Berle; 2), at Ronnie
Grant's home on McCabe Avenue, for Hopalong Cassidy (and Gabby); and 3),
at Don Walker's home at 19th and Van Buren, for Bob Horn's Bandstand and
Phillies baseball. We didn't have a TV in our home until 1951, when we
had moved to Monroe Park, and the first thing I saw on that was Frank Sinatra's
variety show of that time. Now we have 5 working TV's in our home, and
only two people live here.
Robert J Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Tuesday, September 19, 2006 at 09:05:41 (EDT)
Speaking of Eagles, we're lucky enough to have a nesting pair somewhere
in the nearby vicinity of our home. I read in the News Journal recently
where they're making a comeback in Delaware. Sure enough within a couple
of days one did a swoop right down our driveway toward the river. It's
a real sight to see them flying even in the distance in search of whatever.
The sound they make is very distinctive, as a call of the wild. Looks like
the word is out that Delaware is a good place to live.
Wayne <twntydasys@aol.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Tuesday, September 19, 2006 at 08:32:52 (EDT)
Hi Ralph, welcome back! Who knows about the Blue Hens??? The tailgating
was great last weekend, though, according to my son. The Eagles are kind
of outshining the Hen's right now. Perhaps "Outshining" isn't quite the
right word! Glad you're back, and Yes, the weather is great right now.
Shirley
Shirley Hudson Jester <ujest110@aol.com>
Newark, DE USA - Monday, September 18, 2006 at 20:30:31 (EDT)
HI SHIRLEY HUDSON JESTER, HERE YOUR STARTING TO HAVE A BEAUTIFUL FALL
UP THERE. THATS THE ONLY SEASON I REALLY MISS. AND SHIRLEY, HOW ARE MY
FIGHTIN BLUE HEN,S FOOT BALL TEAM DOING ? I ALSO MISS THEM., AND THE TAIL
GATEING PARTY. FRIEND RALPH
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK@AOL.COM>
TARPON SPRINGS, FL USA - Monday, September 18, 2006 at 17:33:51 (EDT)
Phyllis, I remember hanging on the window sill of a home between Franklin
and North Connell Street and doing chin ups so I could see a test pattern!
I can only know that we had a TV in 1954 because I saw Bobby Thompson's
famous New York Giants home run on our own set. We had no air conditioning
and the temperature usually hovered around 100 then but, dammit, we had
a TV!
jim rambo <rammymex@yahoo.com>
ajijic, jalisco Mexico - Monday, September 18, 2006 at 15:39:01 (EDT)
Phyllis Boyd...first time I've seen you on this website. You can sure
add a lot, as you have a wonderful memory of the old neighborhood. I used
to go to Jean Spoerl's and watch TV until we finally got one in Sept of
1950. It was my first year as a senior at PS. That's how I remember when
it was. I also remember being at your house many times while you or your
brother, Harry, played the piano. What talent in your family! I answer
emails quicker than phone calls (sorry about that), 'cause I can do that
late at night. I'm at work now, but usually check email in the evening.
Let's see more memories from you on the website. Shirley Hudson Jester
Shirley Hudson Jester <ujest110@aol.com>
Newark, DE USA - Monday, September 18, 2006 at 13:42:19 (EDT)
Does anyone remember Margaret Stouffer Fisher? She lived on East 22nd
Street between Church and Spruce. If she were alive today, she would be
way over 100. She let her close friends and neighbors stand on her front
porch and view her TV through her window screens. Imagine this happening
today!! How wonderful she was. The year was around 1948 or 1949. This is
how we, especially yours truly, got to see the marvelous Milton Berle and
the Texaco Star Theater and the other shows of that era.
Phyllis B <PBOYD52@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, September 18, 2006 at 12:44:07 (EDT)
Tom Wood: I wonder if that was the same tornado that I saw... the timeframe
was right (mid-40's). My family was driving north on the Concord Pike just
past Porter Reservoir. As we passed the big field at Blue Ball, we saw
the tornado, and watched as it ever so gently lifted a barn and stood it
upright on its end. There seemed to be no damage to it, just a 90-degree
change of attitude! From the course and direction you supplied, it seems
like Blue Ball would have been the next stop after Alapocas. Probably the
same twister.
Bill Fisher <whfisheratearthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Sunday, September 17, 2006 at 17:28:14 (EDT)
I remember a small tornado that skipped across New Castle county in
the mid 40s, damaging some light aircraft at duPont airport, twisting a
house under construction near A.I. duPont school on Kennett Pike, then
stripping off part of the gymnasium roof of the Friends school in Alapocas.
Anyone else recall that?
Tom Wood <twood@hoflink.com>
Albertson, NY USA - Sunday, September 17, 2006 at 16:21:53 (EDT)
Connie, I remember Alapocas just off the Augustine Cut-off from back
in the late 40's and 50's. Great looking community with up-scale homes.
Everything neat and trimmed and litter free, complete with under ground
wiring for their street lighting. ...Bob
Robert J. McKelvey <windsorme2@verizon.net>
Cape May, N.J. USA - Sunday, September 17, 2006 at 15:42:00 (EDT)
Sept 17 1937 Friends School moved from 4th Street to Alapocas in North
Wilmington.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, September 17, 2006 at 11:49:43 (EDT)
Re: "Patsy's". William McElroy, my father-in-law, confirms that Patsy's
was named after his sister, Pat, as Norman indicated.
Tom Kolasinski <tkck@cox.net>
Glendale, AZ USA - Sunday, September 17, 2006 at 11:47:54 (EDT)
Robert J. Wilson, Jr. In answer to your question about the name Patsy
being a member of the Toner family I can tell you that there was never
a Patsy in that family. Name of the store came from elsewhere
Nora <svan402@aol.com>
wilmington, de USA - Saturday, September 16, 2006 at 22:08:06 (EDT)
Bob McKelvey You seem to be very knowledgeable about Concord Avenue
and surrounding P.S.du Pont areas. Where did you live at that time. I lived
at 31st and Van Buren just two blocks from P.S.
Joanne H. <joh435@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Saturday, September 16, 2006 at 13:05:55 (EDT)
Bob McKelvey You seem to be very knowledgeable about Concord Avenue
and surrounding P.S.du Pont areas. Where did you live at that time. I lived
at 31st and Van Buren just two blocks from P.S.
Joanne H. <joh435@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Saturday, September 16, 2006 at 13:04:00 (EDT)
AS I REMEMBER, "PATSY'S" WAS LOCATED AT BAYNARD BOULEVARD AND VAN BUREN
ST.ACROSS FROM # 30 SCHOOL. "TONERS" WAS A SUB SHOP ON CONCORD AVE. JUST
OFF VAN BUREN NEXT "REED'S" MARKET. "PATSY'S" WAS LATER NAMED "WRIGHT'S" AND
HAD A COUPLE PINBALL MACHINES. I LIVED AROUND THE BLOCK ON CONCORD AND
MONROE NEXT TO "FELL'S" DRUG STORE.
BOB H. <RPH0834@AOL.COM>
WILMINGTON, DE USA - Saturday, September 16, 2006 at 12:54:23 (EDT)
To Bob Wilson---I remember Patsy's in the mid 40's. At this time is
was owned by McElroy, Mrs. McElroy worked it and Mr. McElroy was a sales
rep for Richman Ice Cream Co. There are three members of the family still
with us, William,local, Howard,Richmond VA, and Patricia.Georgia. The soda
shop was named for her. Not sure who took it over from them. If I am wrong,
please correct me.
Norman <buckenae@comcast.net>
Wilmington,, DE USA - Saturday, September 16, 2006 at 11:35:41 (EDT)
Gee, Bob- I have no idea about "Patsy". I never knew there was an actual
person by that name; it could well have been one of the Toners. I always
thought the shop was named for some fictitious person. The only "live" one
I remember is Frank, the proprietor. He was always behind the grill, mashing
down those thin but delicious hamburgers (20¢, as I recall...) Anybody
else know anything about the genealogy of "Patsy's"?
Bill Fisher <whfisheratearthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Saturday, September 16, 2006 at 11:30:17 (EDT)
To Bill "Stix" Fisher and all other 9th Ward Old Timers...what you call
Patsy's, I called Toner's, the place with the two pinball machines. Was
Patsy one of the Toner family? They had a lot of kids, and it seems to
me that they all worked there at one time or another...and they all looked
alike, mother and father included! It was right across Van Buren from there,
on the sidewalk on the side of the old grammar school, that Larry "Skip" Hance,
of Sallies, baptized me with a Disney-esque nickname that stuck with me
all through High School at PS...much to my regret.
Robert J Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Saturday, September 16, 2006 at 10:44:57 (EDT)
Helen Doherty, You are correct. Hi neighbor! I was raised in Wilmington
near the Brandywine on Van Buren St. The community was referred to as Happy
Valley. Left there in 1958, I was in the Military. Married a Wilmington
girl, traveled here and there and settled here in Feb '72. ...Bob
Robert J. McKelvey <windsorme2@verizon.net>
Cape May, N.J. USA - Saturday, September 16, 2006 at 09:33:07 (EDT)
The ice cream stand at Lancaster Pike and Center Road was called Breidlablik.
There was a farm there and the field around it had several cows, The ice
cream was very good. Bob Mckelvey, I think my house in Cape May is down
the street from yours.
Helen Doherty <hmdoh@verizon.net>
wikmington, De. USA - Saturday, September 16, 2006 at 01:47:25 (EDT)
HEY JIM RAMBO, THANKS FOR THAT GREAT WELCOME BACK. THE REAL EDD NORTON
COULD NOT HAVE DONE IT ANY BETTER -----AND AWAY WE GO ! ! HEY NORTON !
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK@AOL.COM>
TARPON SPRINGS , FL USA - Friday, September 15, 2006 at 22:01:56 (EDT)
Regarding Father Francis Tucker. As a little girl, I remember my Mother
telling me about growing up in the Forty Acres. Her family belonged to
St. Ann's parish; however, they lived at 13th and DuPont and were actually
closer to St. Anthony's; so, my Grandmother went to daily Mass at St. Anthony's.
She knew Father Tucker very well and supported the building of St. Anthony's
Church. She always told my Mother not to tell the priests at St. Anne's
that she was putting envelopes into St. Anthony's collection. Father Tucker
became a legend in the Catholic community. I well remember the "blessing
of the hot dogs" story! I agree that it was definitely secondary to the
Grace Kelly-Prince Ranier story.
Pat LeVan <LeVan17062aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Friday, September 15, 2006 at 19:26:54 (EDT)
Re: football teams around Wilmington: Don't forget the "Patsy Creampuffs"--
they weren't even semi-pro, but they were a team of some interest, sponsored
by Patsy's Soda Shop at Baynard Blvd and Van Buren St. In spite of their
name, I'm told that they weren't bad!
Bill Fisher <whfisheratearthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Friday, September 15, 2006 at 19:00:03 (EDT)
J. Pasquale, Thanks for refreshing my memory , I do recall some of the
team names you mentioned. ...Bob
ROBERT J. McKelvey <windsorme2@verizon.net>
Cape May, N.J. USA - Friday, September 15, 2006 at 18:34:42 (EDT)
TO R. MCkelvey******some of wilm. semi-pro's football teams****SAINT
ANTHONY'S,DEFINANCE A.C.,ADAM'S A.C., FAIRVIEW OWLS , DEL. GYPSEY'S,WEST
SIDE INDIANS,CUTRONA'S A.C.
JPASQUALE <JNPASQUALE@COMCAST.NET>
wilmington, DE USA - Friday, September 15, 2006 at 18:05:34 (EDT)
Hey Mike, Father Tucker is more famous around Wilmington for Blessing
the hot dogs than He is for the Grace Keely thing LOL.
Ray Jubb <golfopera@aol.com>
Wilmington, De. USA - Thursday, September 14, 2006 at 21:21:27 (EDT)
I never met Fr.Tucker but I do remember he officiated at Grace Kelly's
wedding.
Mike Snyder <kmsins@msn.com>
Newtown, Ct USA - Thursday, September 14, 2006 at 18:51:50 (EDT)
Swifty, When I was about 14yrs. of age I went to one of the Pro or Semi-Pro
games at the Wilmington Ball Park. It must have been cheap admission because
I can remember standing on the sidelines with the crowd. It was very cold
that day and a good number of the male patrons were carrying flasks which
they reached for regularly. The teams were Wilmington and Baltimore. I
believe one was called The Clippers, I can't remember which team won. It
may have been an exhibition game. This was about 1946. ...Bob
obert J. McKelvey <windsorme2@verizon.net>
Cape May, N.J. USA - Thursday, September 14, 2006 at 14:00:45 (EDT)
I used to walk up to Second and duPont to what is now called the Judy
Johnson Park to watch semi pro football games. Some of the teams involved
were the Conrad Alumni, Defiance and St. Anthony's. Those guys played very
hard and the games were really enjoyable. They would have someone designated
to carry the hat at halftime and everybody chipped in for the cause. Given
the state of law today, as it relates to liability, etc., I can't imagine
that anyone could organize games like that nowadays.
jim rambo <rammymex@yahoo.com>
ajijic, jalisco Mexico - Thursday, September 14, 2006 at 13:56:26 (EDT)
My parents took me to a football game one Sunday at Price's Run Park.
I don't know the names of the teams but it was black vs white and one of
the black guys came over to my father and told him to take my mother and
me home because, when those two teams played, they always fought and he
didn't think women and children should see that.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, September 14, 2006 at 13:42:10 (EDT)
I don't remember the neighorhood teams, but I do recall going to see
the Wilmington Comets play at Baynard Stadium. I don't recall the name
of the league they were in, but I think they functioned as a minor league
team for the Phila. Eagles. I think that I have still have a program from
one of the games somewhere.
Swifty <williamwswift@aol.com>
York, PA USA - Thursday, September 14, 2006 at 12:34:51 (EDT)
I remember going to football games where the neighborhood communities
fielded teams after the second world war. I recall going to games at Rockford
Park, New Castle and I believe Price's Run. I can only remember the Happy
Valley team, and I think Saint Anthony, and maybe Westside Indians. ..not
sure... The players put on a great show. The neighborhood backed their
teams by cheering them on from the sidelines. Many of the players were
former high school players. Anyone recall the teams? ...Bob
Robert J. McKelvey <windsorme2@verizon.net>
Cape May, N.J. USA - Thursday, September 14, 2006 at 11:31:46 (EDT)
OLD SCHOOL "55" WAS BORN & RAISED & STILL LIVE IN LITTLE ITALY,I KNOW
A LOT OF FAMILES FROM THIS AREA,YOU NAME THE FAMILY & I PROB. KNOW SOMEONE
IN IT.........JOE "BUBBLES " PASQUALE
JPASQUALE <jnpasquale@comcast.net>
wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, September 13, 2006 at 17:16:21 (EDT)
WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME PHYLLIS B. TO THE OLD WILMINGTON SITE! PHYLLIS
HAS A SUPERB RECOLLECTION OF NAMES,PLACES AND DATES OF OLD WILMINGTON AND
SHOULD BE A GOOD CONTRIBUTOR TO THE SITE!!
Bob and Joanne H. <RPH0834@AOL.COM>
WILMINGTON, DE USA - Wednesday, September 13, 2006 at 16:01:02 (EDT)
"Sept 13 1924 After appeals to the Catholic Church by Wilmington Italian
community leaders for a priest who could help them with their problems,
Father John Francis Tucker, an Irishman who spoke fluent Italian, was appointed
by Bishop John J. Monaghan." I REMEMBER HEARING THE NAMES, BUT THAT'S ALL.
PERHAPS SOMEONE OUT THERE REMEMBERS THE MEN.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, September 13, 2006 at 10:11:12 (EDT)
Oldschool55 I tried to e-mail you, but it came back undeliverable. Most
of my family grew up in Little Italy, but I prefer not to list names online.
E-mail me if you like.
Patty <pattywerk@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, September 13, 2006 at 04:53:09 (EDT)
My wife graduated from Padua Academy in 1961 and her sister graduated
in 1959.___They walked to the school every day from Front & Broom Streets...
Webmaster <webmaster@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Wednesday, September 13, 2006 at 01:04:08
(EDT)
any body here attend st anthony's school or padua academy or grow up
in the "little italy" section of town???
oldschool55 <oldschool55@verizon.net>
wilmington, de USA - Tuesday, September 12, 2006 at 21:57:52 (EDT)
Some other Blue Rocks who have played in the major leagues: Carlos Beltran,
Kiko Calero, Mark Ellis, Sal Fasano, Jon Lieber,Alejandro Machado, Ramon
Martinez, Glendon Rusch, Michael Tucker.
Bill Fisher <whfisheratearthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Tuesday, September 12, 2006 at 13:57:39 (EDT)
Bruce, Johnny played for the Blue Rocks in 1994.
Butch Schilling <fschilling@isacclaims.com>
Mount Pleasant, SC USA - Tuesday, September 12, 2006 at 13:48:28 (EDT)
When did Damon play for the Blue Rocks ?
Bruce <bc@houston.rr.com>
Sugarland, TX USA - Tuesday, September 12, 2006 at 13:04:26 (EDT)
...and John Wockenfuss, Dickinson HS '66, played catcher for the Detroit
Tigers in the 1970s.
Larry Roszkowiak <larry.roszkowiak@ucsf.edu>
San Francisco, CA USA - Monday, September 11, 2006 at 14:42:06 (EDT)
Oh, and we all know that current New York Yankees centerfielder Johnny
Damon was once a Blue Rock... right?
Bill Fisher <whfisheratearthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Monday, September 11, 2006 at 12:58:36 (EDT)
How about one of the best shortstops the Blue Rocks ever saw: Mike "Scooter" Romello?
He played in the late 40's era. Anybody know whatever happened to him after
his stint on the Rocks? (I don't have Elbert Chance's book, but am asking
Santa Claus for it!)
Bill Fisher <whfisheratearthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Monday, September 11, 2006 at 12:56:53 (EDT)
Pat, Mike Goliat did play for the Blue Rocks prior to his playing second
base for the 1950 Phillies "Whiz Kids" Jesse Levan was involved in some
sort of illegal gambling, I don't know if it involved baseball. He never
made it to the big leagues and I had read a long while ago that was the
reason. Glad you cleared up you're no relation to him. I've always been
curious about that when I read your posts.
Tom Kolasinski <tkck@cox.net>
Glendale , AZ USA - Monday, September 11, 2006 at 12:27:23 (EDT)
I remember lots of the Blue Rocks mentioned. Was Mike Goliat a Blue
Rock? Also, do any of you remember a guy named Jesse LeVan? There was some
sort of scandal involving betting on games, I believe. (By the way, he
is no relation to my husband).
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Monday, September 11, 2006 at 11:46:59 (EDT)
The book about the Blue Rocks that Robert Wilson mentioned is "The Blue
Rocks Past And Present- Wilmington's Baseball Team 1940 - 1999" by Elbert
Chance, published in 2000 by Cedar Tree Books Ltd, a publisher there in
Wilmington.
My son gave me a copy several years ago and it is a delight.
Tom Kolasinski <tkck@cox.net>
Glendale, AZ USA - Monday, September 11, 2006 at 10:01:27 (EDT)
Bob, I remember Schell very well; seems to me he was a decent stick
for awhile. Some of the other Rocks I recall include Joe h a wall and hit
.280 with about ten homers a year. Think he still holds the ML record for
pinchhit walks (91) and had a good 20 career including stints with both
the A's & Phillies - the only ML player born in Czechoslovakia. I think
Danny Carnevale was another of the Blue Rocks managers of that period -
if memory serves, his brother was coach of Navy's basketball team. Am rambling
now, so will quit...
Butch Schilling <fschilling@isacclaims.com>
Mount Pleasant, SC USA - Monday, September 11, 2006 at 09:41:18 (EDT)
The former PR Director of the University of Delaware, Elbert Chance,
has also written what is virtually a play-by-play, game-by-game, season-by-season
history of the Blue Rocks, which is probably still in print and available
in Wilmington and Delaware bookstores.
Robert J Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Sunday, September 10, 2006 at 21:28:09 (EDT)
The history of the WILM DE Blue Rocks (1942) can be found at this site
___http://mywebpages.comcast.net/jduffy/baseball/
TheKid <NoSpam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, September 10, 2006 at 19:29:34 (EDT)
About the old Blue Rocks. I found among my treasures an old baseball
autographed by some of the 1942 Blue Rocks. Trouble is that it's pretty
hard to make out some of the names because the signatures have faded. Anybody
happen to have a rooster of that year ?
Budo <bu49atpoolesite.com>
Wilm, De USA - Sunday, September 10, 2006 at 13:05:00 (EDT)
To Butch, my fellow Low County compadre, regarding George Estock...We
had a 1950 Blue Rocks player named Danny Schell who bunked in our neghborhood
(at 19th and Monroe) with his wife and very young son. He played center
field, and was the team (if not the league) home run champ that year. He
was a big, blonde and handsome farm boy from rural Michigan. He eventually
reached the Philles late in 1953, and played only 60-some games for them
in 1954. I believe that was the extent of his major league career. Regrettably,
he passed away back in Michigan in 1964, still a relatively young man.
I found his 1954 Topps baseball card in a flea market in Portchester, NY,
back in the mid-1970's. It's become a treasured possession. And further,
Butch, do you know of a local pro photographer in Mount Pleasant named
Buzz Hammond? I worked for him back in 1977, in NYC, when he ran a small
midtown ad agency.
Robert J Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Saturday, September 09, 2006 at 10:17:25 (EDT)
I remember going to a shoe store with the xray machine on Washington
Street around 23nd or so.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, September 08, 2006 at 22:40:04 (EDT)
Hey it sounds like we have some 1950 graduates out there from PS? By
any chance does anyone have a 1950 PS duPont Yearbook to loan to me. I
will scan it and treat it like gold and get it back to you asap. My mother
in law has become very ill and this is something she has always wanted.
Hers was lost in a fire a long time ago. I was born and raised in Wilmington
and now live in Utah only for just a little while longer. We are planning
to move back home next Fall, can't wait... So please if anyone can help...:)
Rose Culver <reculver71@aol.com>
Layton, UT USA - Friday, September 08, 2006 at 22:38:54 (EDT)
Hi all, I haven't been on here for a while, too busy. Shirley, I would
appreciate a picture of my block. Would you email one to me at my email
address? Does anyone remember the Buster Brown Shoe store where they had
a machine that you stuck your feet into and it showed an x-ray of your
feet? My mom took me there and when I put on a new pair of shoes, I stuck
my feet in the machine to see if they were giving my feet space to grow.
Estella
Estella <dizzy0924@comcast.net>
Hartly, De USA - Friday, September 08, 2006 at 21:58:02 (EDT)
Bob, your post reminds me that about the same time you're referring
to, a major league pitcher, George Estock,lived for a short while in a
garage apartment adjacent to the old Silverside Supply Co. on Silverside
Road just east of the B & O. Somehow (don't remember how it came about)
I got to play catch with him - was living on Old Windybush Road at the
time. Estock only had one start in the ML, a losing effort against the
Pirates in which his opponent, Cliff Chambers, pitched a no-hitter in spite
of walking eight batters. Estock did not play in the majors after the 1951
season but did get two hits and a walk in eight trips, not bad for a pitcher.
As far as I know, he continues to make his home in Florida.
Butch Schilling <fschilling@isacclaims.com>
Mount Pleasant, SC USA - Thursday, September 07, 2006 at 09:50:03 (EDT)
I urge all of you to contact Jim Rambo and ask him to send you a copy
of his Yankee bat boy memoir. It is superb, in a word, and deserves to
be published in a Delaware print medium, if not in a national one . My
best Wilmington Ball Park anecdote: the Boston Braves had come to town
to play an exhibition game against the Blue Rocks in the spring of 1950
or 1951. My friends and I were autograph hounds at the time, so as the
Braves were boarding their bus after the game, we shoved our programs,
etc. through the windows and got the signatures of such Major League stalwart
Braves as Warren Spahn, Sibby Sisti, Bob Elliott, Johnny Sain and Vern
Bickford. The last guy I handed my pen to was Braves Manager Billy Southworth,
who was wearing a spiffy black and white houndstooth sports coat. As he
handed the pen and the signed paper back to me through the bus window,
a large drop of Skrip Permanent Blue-Black Ink spurted from my leaky fountain
pen (yes, a fountain pen!) onto the Southworth jacket sleeve. And if looks
could kill, I'd have been stone-cold dead forever on that evening at 30th
and Governor Prinz.
Robert J Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Wednesday, September 06, 2006 at 10:48:47 (EDT)
I remember hearing the RESULT of the Johanson victory while playing
Bingo at the new Sallies school.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, September 06, 2006 at 09:35:21 (EDT)
April, 1955, my friend, Ritchie Tuschinski and I were bat boys for the
Yankees and Phils at the old Wilmington Park. Met Yogi Berra, Mickey Mantle
and others. Anyone wanting a copy of the story can just send me your e-mail
address and I'll forward it to you. When not bat boys, we would hike out
there from Third and Connell and wait for the Star Spangled Banner to begin.
When all of the police were then at attention, we would jump over the fence
and run like hell for the grandstand! Did get to see Satchel Paige one
night, Tom. He played, as I recall, for the Birmingham Black Barons?? Also
was fortunate enough to befriend Johnny Johnson later in life and was introduced
to his brother, Judy and his wife. Good years, good people and times to
remember.
jim rambo <rammymex@yahoo.com>
ajijic, jalisco Mexico - Tuesday, September 05, 2006 at 20:23:32 (EDT)
Connie and Jim, you recall some great memories of the old Wilmington
Ball Park and remind me of some others. I saw both Robin Roberts and Curt
Simmons pitch for the Blue Rocks before they joined the Phillies. I remember
the Ashburn / Ennis collision but didn't see it. Never saw the Wilmington
Clippers football team but remember they played at the Ball Park in the
Fall. I also remember looking at posters on telephone poles advertising
some of the Negro League games that were played there when the Blue Rocks
were on the road and wondering what that was all about. Now I think how
great it would be to have actually attended one of those games. I remember
being at the Dandee Drive-In listening to the car radio when Ingemar Johanssen
kocked out Floyd Patterson and shocked everyone.
Tom Kolasinski <tkck@cox.net>
Glendale, AZ USA - Tuesday, September 05, 2006 at 19:48:22 (EDT)
JIM BATTY - we share a lot of memories about the ball park. I remember
going to the rodeo there as well as the WHS, Brown, and Sallies games.
My father took me to a circus there once. I remember going to a carnival
in that area a few times, as well.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Tuesday, September 05, 2006 at 15:07:59 (EDT)
Thanks for mentioning the old Wilmington Ball Park....I can remember
us kids from Eastlake use to get up on the roof of the ticket office of
the Drive-In Theatre next door & watch the games or whatever was in. Besides
the baseball games, they use to bring the rodeo in (you want to talk about
odor); I remember seeing the Harlem Globe Trotters there too. I was at
the baseball game there, when Richie Ashburn & Del Ennis collided in right
field going after the ball. Of course, when we were older many of us went
to PS duPont & we all went to the annual Thanksgiving Day game there with
Wilmington High School. And then over to the Dan-Dee for some refreshments,
before heading home for the big turkey dinner.
Jim Batty <travelcompany@att.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Tuesday, September 05, 2006 at 14:54:52 (EDT)
For Wayne: I didn't say you insulted anyone Wayne, but I got you thinking.
For Patty: I don't think I knew your Aunt Patty. 4TH & Union isn't Union
Park Gardens, the Gardens is four blocks South of 4TH and Union. But what
your talking about I can relate to because back in the good old days a
lot of people walked to work or took the trolley's and then later the buses,
not only to work, but for shoping, visiting, Doctors visits and so on.
Today however, in Wilmington you wouldn't want to walk anywhere and I'm
not even sure if you would want to venture into Town on the Bus, unless
you had a Kevlar vest. Things sure have changed, the term "good old day's" was
never more true than it is today. Sorry to say.
Ray Jubb <golfopera@aol.com>
Wilmington, De. USA - Monday, September 04, 2006 at 21:21:01 (EDT)
The Rayon: Just a guess but I think it was called Delaware Rayon and
was located in New Castle at Rt 9 and Washington St's (basically the extension
of 141). I've heard a lot of New Castle people talk about working there
back when transportation was limited. Going back to the workers at the
leather factories, I don't recall insulting them or any other honest hard
working person. My background is filled with nothing but that type of people,
including farmers, a cabinet maker who got arthritis so bad he had to become
a night watchman at the U of D for many years, truck driver, my mother
at times did waitress work (which is one reason I always tip well) and
yes my stepfather worked at nights in the leather factory around 11 th
street. By the way, He told me it didn't stink inside the plant. I could
go on, but I think I've made my point. Just because I am lucky enough to
have it better than they did was only because of them and that's a fact
I don't forget. Yes, I got above my raise ins (as it is said and spelled)
but I always remember where I came from and the hard working people who
put me where I am.
Wayne <twntydasys@aol.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Monday, September 04, 2006 at 09:16:57 (EDT)
This Day in Delaware History: 1871 The Every Evening newspaper was founded
in Wilmington.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, September 04, 2006 at 08:56:03 (EDT)
Ray - I wanted to ask if you knew my aunt - Ann Giletti. A lot of people
thought her name was "Angelet". She walked to work from 4th & Union most
of the time. In bad weather, if she had a "token" (10 cents in those days)
she would take the trolley.
Patty <pattywerk@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, September 04, 2006 at 03:57:55 (EDT)
Ray Jubb - thanks for the kind words about the people who worked in
the leather factory. Don't ask me how, but my aunt supported herself, her
father, and 5 sisters working there. She also referred to another place
where she worked as "the rayon". Does anyone know which company that was & where
it was located?
Patty <pattywerk@aol.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, September 04, 2006 at 03:43:11 (EDT)
Ray, Aromas,oders, smells, almost always are remembered. Bakeries, Hospitals,
Public bathrooms, our Mom's kitchens, & yes, Leather Factories. It's partly
what shapes our characters we mature. The words we use to describe those
memories, are what matter.
Barb <barbrhodes@comcast.net>
Peabody, MA USA - Sunday, September 03, 2006 at 22:13:46 (EDT)
You folks out there downing the odor of the Leather Factories should
keep in mind that even though they didn't smell like perfume, they helped
many a Family keep bread on the table. Those men and women who didn't have
a trade or great education like some of You, worked hard day and night
in those Factories and were damn glad to have the Job. I lived a block
from the one at Lancaster Ave. and Adams St. and knew many of the folks
who worked there. They were good hard working people and I never heard
any of them complain about the odor of the Factory. Nor did I ever hear
any of my neighbors complain of the odor, but I guess that was out of respect
for the men and women who had to toiul there.
Remember that word "RESPECT".
Ray Jubb <golfopera@aol.com>
Wilmington, De. USA - Sunday, September 03, 2006 at 20:50:22 (EDT)
In late 1966 we found the back entrance to the old abandoned Wilmington
Speedway. We were able to drive our car around the track no one else there.
Driving that cratered, banked, oval in Dad's '56 Chevy wagon with bald
tires, bad shocks and no seatbelts was something my parents never heard
about.
Larry Roszkowiak <larry.roszkowiak@ucsf.edu>
San Francisco, CA USA - Sunday, September 03, 2006 at 20:25:37 (EDT)
In 1954 we played Little League baseball at the Wilmington Ball Park.
They made 2 fields inside the park. It was very special for us and it was
an extra thrill when we played on the field that contained the dugouts.
I didn't think it could get any better.
Swifty <williamwswift@aol.com>
York, Pa USA - Sunday, September 03, 2006 at 19:56:25 (EDT)
REMEMBER KINNEY SHOE STORES? George Romanta Kinney revolutionized footwear
retailing by offering popularly priced shoes to working Americans It became
the largest footwear chain in America in the 1950s, with freestanding stores
along highways and "strip" stores in small shopping centers close to new
suburban housing developments. On September 16, 1998, Venator Group (Woolworth
renamed) announced: "Kinney and Footquarters To Close Its Operations: The
Company announced today that it is exiting its Specialty Footwear operations
including 467 Kinney Shoe stores and 103 Footquarters stores." Kinney Shoe
Corporation would no longer serve as the Great American Shoe Store.
Connie <n>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, September 03, 2006 at 14:55:31 (EDT)
To Robert Mckelvey: I also worked at Wilmington Park in the late 40's.
I worked the parking lot and sold soft drinks & peanuts inside the park.Also
sold programs during the football season.
FRANK BISIO <FRANKCPA@HOTMAIL.COM>
GREENTOWN, PA USA - Sunday, September 03, 2006 at 12:53:59 (EDT)
CONNIE, Your post about the Wilmington Blue Rocks made me remember That
I worked in concession stand #5 at the top of the stadium in back of home
plate as a kid. I also recall parking cars for a few bucks at the parking
lot. You mentioned Willard Hall School in an earlier post and I never knew
where it was until I had to register for the draft way back when. Bob
Robert J. McKelvey <windsorme2@verizon.net>
Cape May, N.J. USA - Sunday, September 03, 2006 at 09:34:07 (EDT)
To Carol from Sunny Italy. Pat LeV., et al - Happy to report that the
only epidemics I was ever aware of at U. Delaware in the mid-1950's were
Mono (the kissing disease), hangovers (the beer drinker's disease) and
maybe an occasional touch of the Flu. I realize that time changed a lot
of the behavior of young people from the 50's to the 60's to the 70's,
etc., but, even in spite of that, us oldsters had a good time in Newark
in the 50's, as well as having learned something, too.......
Robert J Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Sunday, September 03, 2006 at 09:27:05 (EDT)
Sept 3 "1952 The Wilmington Blue Rocks baseball team played and lost
its last
game at Wilmington Park at 30th and Market Streets." (This is what was
sent to me. Actually, the ballpark was on 30th near Gov. Printz.)
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, September 03, 2006 at 09:01:34 (EDT)
Well, well, well! (My mother always said that before she took the wind
out of my sails). Carol is back with her fond memories of the old days
in Wilmington. Gee, Carol, couldn't you remember anything nice about the
good old days? I will try to say this as gently as possible. Please crawl
back under your rock and leave the rest of us old timers with our sweet
memories.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Saturday, September 02, 2006 at 19:07:53 (EDT)
One expression I remember my mother using in the old days in Wilmington
was: "You look like the wild woman from Borneo". This was usually said
after you had a particularly bad permanent or let your hair dry naturally
after getting caught in the rain.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Saturday, September 02, 2006 at 14:18:29 (EDT)
I knew one guy who worked at a tannery. If one could smell that bad,
I dread to think what a busload would smell like!
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Saturday, September 02, 2006 at 10:21:42 (EDT)
THE GUY'S FROM ALLIED KID WOULD RIDE THE #5 TROLLEY CAR HOME YOU SURE
KNEW THEY WERE ON IT.
DAVE CAUFFMAN <CAUFFMANDS@AOL.COM>
HOCKESSIN, DE USA - Friday, September 01, 2006 at 22:05:15 (EDT)
I remember passing a leather factory when I walked to my relative's
house on 11th & Pine. Not sure which street the factory was on. It was
Amalgamated Leather or Allied Kidd, I believe. I can still remember that
odor.
sharon <shar646@aol.com>
weston, fl USA - Friday, September 01, 2006 at 18:01:27 (EDT)
To the new Guy riding down 4th street toward town. I have no idea what
odors are there now but you should have been around in the 40's and early
50's when there was a leather factory on 4th between Madison and Monroe.
I still don't know how people lived in that area. Talk about odor. Of course
that was just before the days when they advertised 5 day deodorant pads
on TV. Can you imagine 5 days without a shower, bath or otherwise a need
to refresh your deodorant. Maybe the commercials haven't caught up with
the newer residents yet, but I find that hard to believe. Just what kind
of odors are you referring to?
Wayne <twntydasys@aol.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Friday, September 01, 2006 at 15:57:39 (EDT)
Old Sayings: Goodness gracious; puddin' 'n pie; carfare; subshop;
Larry Roszkowiak <larry.roszkowiak@ucsf.edu>
San Francisco, C USA - Friday, September 01, 2006 at 14:45:20 (EDT)
Old sayings: How about "Trolley car" for public transportation
liz <elizabemari3@aol.com>
hartly, de USA - Friday, September 01, 2006 at 14:37:27 (EDT)
REe Alleys: Our home was in the 200 block of W. 37th St. The Street
directly behind was Barrett St & they shared a common Alley, as did the
3700 block of Washington St. There were garages which could be accessed
from West St, 37th St & Barrett. All the kids played in the Alley & I recall
my Brothers tossing foot balls, base balls, learning to ride bikes. Moms
sharing goodies, borrowing sugar, taking down each others laundry in sudden
rain storms, etc. I recall the neighbor's kids directly behind us on Barret
St. trying to grow peanuts in their yard. The back yards were "postage
stamp" size. No peanuts grew, saddly.
Seems like the "Alley" idea was good planning back then. We had a wonderful
mix of different Nationalities & I can still remember the incredible aromas
wafting from the kitchens as we walked home from school, up the alley & occasionally,
trying to fanagle an invitation from the kids whose kitchens offered up
the best.
Barb <barbrhodes@comcast.net>
Peabody, MA USA - Friday, September 01, 2006 at 11:02:11 (EDT)
CONNIE I COULD TELL YOU WHY OUR CITY OF WILMINGTON IS BEING TRASHED
BUT IT WOULD BE REMOVED BECAUSE WE MIGHT HURT THE PERPETRATORS FELLING.
DAVE CAUFFMAN <CAUFFMANDS@AOL.COM>
HOCKESSIN, DE USA - Friday, September 01, 2006 at 08:04:57 (EDT)
Sept 1 This Day in Delaware History: 1874 Ruth, Mary, and Elizabeth
Hebb started a school at 841 Market Street in Wilmington which later became
known as Tatnall, a fashionable school for young ladies. 1899 A new more
modern Wilmington High School opened on Delaware Avenue across from the
Wilmington-Brandywine Cemetery. The old Willard Hall High School at 8th
and Adams Streets was abandoned as such.
Connie <nospanwanted>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, September 01, 2006 at 06:49:12 (EDT)
Ray. Our neighborhood had just one alley such as you described although
I can't recall any with names. The only unique names I can recall off hand
from the neighborhood was the swimming pool which was called a Bath House
and we always referred to it as "THE BATHY"... We also referred to the
Tennis Courts with the name "TENNY". I started a list years ago of the
sayings that I heard in Wilmington during the years from the late 30's
to the early 50's. They may not be unique to the area, I just remembered
these sayings while growing up and I seldom hear any of them now. There
was an earlier post referring to " KILL TWO BIRDS With ONE STONE". This
I am sure was not unique to our area but I still like to remember it fondly.
I remember that our guys called the WOODS "THE WOODSY". Bob
Robert J. McKelvey <windsorme2@verizon.net>
Cape May, N.J. USA - Friday, September 01, 2006 at 05:07:15 (EDT)