Visitors Nostalgia & Memories

(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)

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