Visitors Nostalgia & Memories

(Archive #54: June 1, 2008 to June 30, 2008 entries)

Hey Ralph, from time to time I surf this site and I see that you guys were talking about our old neighbor Don McDonald.When we lived in Prospect Manor they next door to us. My father Art Thursby and Don were very close friends.When we were neighbors I grew up with his Bobby McDonald. The last time I saw Don was at my dad's funeral two years ago. They were nice people, his wife Dot(she pass away) and daughter Annie and son Jimmy. As far as I know Don is still with us. Hope you are doing well down in Florida.
Art <private>
Newark, De USA - Monday, June 30, 2008 at 16:49:17 (EDT)

Webmaster, Thanks for the recent additions. I have a question about Lynthwaite's. Where did the name come from? Always had to throw my used napkins at the bulls-eye trash can.
Bruce <private>
Sugar Land, TX USA - Monday, June 30, 2008 at 13:11:57 (EDT)

June 30 "1967 The Grand Opera House on Wilmington's Market Street closed as a motion picture theater with the movie "The Game is Over"."
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, June 30, 2008 at 08:57:18 (EDT)

I'm sorry, Jerry, I can't tell you anything about John Smith's sons. I didn't know them, just the Chief. And Ralph, thank you for your warm support for the loss of my baseball cards. Please understand, though, that I don't really mourn the loss of the little squares of cardboard with their pictures of our old baseball heros or the $ that the lost cards may represent. I believe that my crystal-clear memory of seeing those cards slide and tumble out of their box mirrors in some way the precious early years of my life and the precious people that inhabited those times who have also slipped away. Carefully arranged and still in order, like my falling baseball cards, people and events all inexorably tumble in slow-motion into an irretrievable past that those of us here on this website share with each other through our memories. P.S. Bob Wilson Jr., you're a good man! As Clarence Burton (Does anyone remember him from City Hall in the 1950's and 60's?) used to say: "What I had I spent and What I saved, I lost, but what I GAVE, I have." Way to go, Bob.
Danny Stat <daniel@statnekov.com>
Salt Spring Island, BC Canada - Monday, June 30, 2008 at 02:27:46 (EDT)

DANNY STAT: What ever happened to Kevin and Chip Smith. The last time I saw them Kevin was in his own Company and Chip was with the secret Service. Chief Smith and a Another Guy with the Name of John who was a Fireman had sponsored me in the First Pushmobile Derby on Lea Blvd. The Name of my car was called triple J.
Jerry Lank <transworldtsl@delaware.usa.com>
Maro Island, FL USA - Sunday, June 29, 2008 at 22:58:35 (EDT)

Yes, Ralph, that was the same Don MacDonald that you knew on the Dept. Later, Capt. MacDonald became an Inspector, right around the time I was working at city hall in 1965 or '66. Recently (about 4 months ago), I heard that Capt. MacDonald was still alive and in his 90's, God Bless Him. The man befriended me when I was a kid and as all of us here know, that's the kind of memory we carry with us for the rest of our lives. I'd guess the Harrington and Richardson .22 rifle that he gave me was a gun that came out of the evidence room at the Dept. I remember that Sgt. Steffy had quite an interesting collection of firearms some of which may have also come from the same place. Chief Smith grew up a few doors down from my grandparent's home at 9th and Monroe. He and my Dad knew each other well. In those days (the 1930's), everyone on that street were as poor as church mice. From time to time, when I worked at City Hall, I'd go down to the Chief's office and just visit with him. Another nice memory of an old-time Wilmingtonian.
Danny Stat <daniel@statnekov.com>
Salt Spring Island, BC Canada - Sunday, June 29, 2008 at 22:18:14 (EDT)

DANNY, WAS THAT CAPT. DON MACDONALD ? AS FOR YOUR CARDS , DONT FEEL BAD, WE ALL THREW AWAY A FORTUNE WHEN WE WERE KIDS. IN FACT , AFTER MY LOVELY WIFE STELLA PASSED AWAY IN 1995 . I BECAME VERY DEPRESSED AND ALOWED RELATIVES TO COME INTO MY HOME AND JUST TAKE WHAT THEY WANTED !,AND THEN MY ANTIQUES I SOLD FOR ABOUT 70 % OF THERE WORTH TO DEALERS, THEY HAD A FIELD DAY. SO DONT FEEL BAD MY FRIEND YOU WERE A YOUNGSTER. I SHOULD HAVE KEPT MY WITS ABOUT ME. WHATS THE OLD SAYING , LIFE GOES ON . BUT , DANNY , LET ME KNOW IF IT WAS CAPT. MACDONALD.
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK@AOL.COM>
TARPON SPRINGS , FL USA - Sunday, June 29, 2008 at 21:30:05 (EDT)

I remember "Double Match Touch." At the time (4th, 5th, and 6th grade), the most complex game and strategy for obtaining even greater numbers for our treasured collections of baseball cards with their color photos of the major league players. Of course, Robin Roberts was the most treasured card in all of our collections, although some of the Yankees were right up there in our 11 and 12-year old value systems. I had a black cardboard box with a hinged lid from the 1930's that had originally housed a microscope with all of the paraphanalia that came with it. Stripped of its inner compartments, the box was perfect for baseball cards stacked on edge, at least four rows ran the length of the box. In December of 1955, as our family was preparing to move to California, a large trash can was brought into my bedroom and the "stuff" from my childhood separated into those things which would go (such as my collection of Lincoln pennys) into the moving van that would be carrying our family possessions to our new life in Los Angeles. Donald MacDonald (Ralph and Ray, you may remember him) had given me a .22 caliber rifle as a going-away present and I was eagerly looking forward to finding a shooting range in California where I could pursue my new-found interest. The thought must have crossed my mind that baseball cards were something from my grammar school days and my childhood that I could leave behind in Wilmington. For a moment I hesitated. Then I tilted the box and watched (seemingly in slow motion) as row after row of my treasured cards cascaded into the bin and out of my life forever. Indelibly etched in my mind is the memory of that singular moment, along with the heart-racing memory of some of those legendary games of "Double Match Touch" that covered the sidewalk with our treasured cardboard squares.
Danny Stat <daniel@statnekov.com>
Salt Spring Island, B.C. Canada - Sunday, June 29, 2008 at 19:00:53 (EDT)

Sounds from the past - http://www.gksb.com/ http://amorosobaking.com/ http://www.wildwoodsnj.com/ (Phila Greater Kensington String Band, Amoroso's bakery, Wildwood NJ)
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, June 29, 2008 at 15:17:54 (EDT)

OH NO! Not Mitchells!! Hope they're just moving and not closing down completely.
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, d USA - Sunday, June 29, 2008 at 15:16:33 (EDT)

ANOTHER STORE TO REMEMBER. I JUST HEARD MITCHELLS STORE ON RT202 WILL BE CLOSING IN SEPTEMBER.
DAVE CAUFFMAN <CAUFFMANDS@AOL.COM>
HOCKESSIN, DE USA - Sunday, June 29, 2008 at 09:08:34 (EDT)

1. We went to Lynthwaits some time in the 60s, perhaps 1963. 2. June 29 "1954 The Wilmington Lions Club opened a children's zoo in Brandywine Park."
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, June 29, 2008 at 08:25:26 (EDT)

ABOUT LYNTHWAITE'S:: Go to the 'Home Page' and select the 'Lynthwaite Aerial Photo'.__You will find info about the ice cream stand...
webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Saturday, June 28, 2008 at 14:02:54 (EDT)

A tidbit about the history of the Bottle and Cork - June 27 "1937 Harry Shaud and his wife Ginger bought Jack's Store, or Jack's Cafe at the end of Dewey Beach for $7,500 and renamed it the Bottle and Cork."
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, June 27, 2008 at 08:20:18 (EDT)

I was never a collector myself, but my two sons amassed two huge but random collections of baseball cards back in the 1980's. Not wanting to make the mistake that my mother did in tossing out all of my "good stuff" after I left home in Greenacres in 1956, I tightly packed all of their cards into six or seven office file moving boxes and they sat in a closet in Connecticut until we moved to South Carolina in 2006. Just before we moved, we "forced" our sons to relieve us of our burden, and now they are stored in two closets, a different one in Connecticut, and one in Harrisburg PA.
Bob Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Friday, June 27, 2008 at 08:15:50 (EDT)

There are big new homes on the corner of Foulk and Shipley now. It was the Talley grandparents who used to keep the beautiful garden there. They passed quite some time ago. Nice houses there now, but the garden was much nicer.
Erik <private>>
Newark, DE USA - Thursday, June 26, 2008 at 09:47:21 (EDT)

The post about Foulk and Talley roads reminde me of Talley's garage and the lot on the corner that was always landscaped in the spring and summer with beautiful flowers. Is that still being done?
Bruce <private>
Sugar land, TX USA - Thursday, June 26, 2008 at 08:47:19 (EDT)

Baseball cards : had 1 shoebox full of National League cards from my grandfather's store, " Szat's " on Elm and Jackson ( he only sold National League ) and 1 shoebox full of American League cards from the A&P on Linden and Jackson, circa 1955-1960. Mom later cleaned " old junk " and threw them out. Wish I had them now for both sentimental and monetary value. Was with my 2 grandsons recently in a Bethany Beach card shop and saw some of the same cards. I might be biased, but the cards looked better back then. I remember a pack of 5 and the piece of gum for 5 cents.
Jerry T. <private>
at the shore, De. USA - Thursday, June 26, 2008 at 08:21:58 (EDT)

RE: P. Caywood According to my research, the intersection of Foulk Rd. and Shipley Rd. should be Foulks corner. If you find info about Talley-Foulks family cemetary, then that is correct. This also could be called Talley!s corner, because of the family land there. brownys
Donn <brownys828@yahoo.com>
Wilmington, de USA - Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 16:48:01 (EDT)

HI ART, I WAS SO SORRY TO HEAR OF YOUR DADS PASSING, AS I STATED ,HE WAS A GREAT GUY AND A DARN GOOD COP ! HE HAD A GREAT SENCE OF HUMOR AND WE HAD A FEW LAUGHS TOGEATHER. IF YOUR DAD WAS HERE RIGHT NOW, HE WOULD TELL YOU , THAT HE WOULD NOT TRADE THOSE YEARS ON THE FORCE FOR ANY THING, AND I AGREE.
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK@AOL.COM>
TARPON SPRINGS , FL USA - Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 11:41:13 (EDT)

Hi Ralph, yes this is his son and my father pass away two years ago at the age of 81. We all (siblings) grew up in the wilmington area. Over the years we all heard the police stories some good and some bad. My father retired in 1971.
Art <private>
Newark, De USA - Wednesday, June 25, 2008 at 09:10:05 (EDT)

Can anyone tell me what Brandywine intersection is considered "Foulks Corner"? Thanks!
Pam <p_cawood@hotmail.com>
wilmington, de USA - Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 22:29:13 (EDT)

HEY ART, YES I KNEW A POLICE OFFICER NAMED ART THURSBY. HE WAS A GOOD COP, AND I WAS ON THE FORCE THE SAME TIME AS HE. HAD SOME LAUGHS TOGEATHER , I WAS NOT IN HIS PLATOON ,BUT WAS IN CONTACT WITH HIM A LOT . AFTER I STARTED WORKING AS A VICE SQUAD OFFICER,. I SAW HIM OFF AND ON. BUT WE ALWAYS HAD A BIG GREETING FOR EACH OTHER. NEVER HEARD A BAD WORD SAID ABOUT ART. ------NOW , I HAVE QUESTION , IS ART STILL WITH US ? AND ---ARE YOU HIS SON ? WOULD LIKE TO HEAR BOTH QUESTIONS ANSWERED ---YES !
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK@AOL.COM>
TARPON SPRINGS , FL USA - Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 21:23:08 (EDT)

Ralph did you know a fellow police officer, Arthur Thursby?
Art <private>
Newark, De USA - Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 16:24:15 (EDT)

Jim, Bob, Kid, et al: I too, had a baseball card collection – all of us in the Flats had cards and flipped them. This was in the late 40s and early 50s. My father, who worked at the Pusey & Jones, was also the manager of their softball team in the Industrial League. He took me to all of the games. I remember the time he took me to the old Wilmington Park to see the Blue Rocks & the Phillies play. Afterwards, he took me over to where the Phillies bus was parked. I don’t know why, but they invited me onto their bus and they all signed my program book. We moved so many times – I related to this in previous postings – that over the years and moves, everything got lost. Like Jim, I wonder what my collection and that program would be worth? Anyway, I have all of those memories to cherish…
webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Monday, June 23, 2008 at 19:45:39 (EDT)

Way to go, Bob Wilson. That was a gift in the best Delaware tradition!! I had no idea that you were into the baseball card scene though. As a kid I used to flip cards and had a collection that would likely have some value today. Somewhere along the way I also lost an autograph book with all the famous players of the 40's, 50's and 60's. It had a red cover and, for the life of me, I'll never know how I lost it. Much more value, sentimental and otherwise, than the cards.
jim rambo <rammymex@yahoo.com>
ajijic, jalisco Mexico - Monday, June 23, 2008 at 19:26:38 (EDT)

WAY TO GO! Bob Wilson!!
TheKid <private>
WILM, DE USA - Monday, June 23, 2008 at 18:21:09 (EDT)

It was Robin Roberts day at Citizen's Bank last Wednesday. Robin threw out the first pitch. He looks pretty darned good for a guy in his 80's. I think he could still pitch better than Kyle Kendrick did that day.
Erik <private>>
Newark, de USA - Monday, June 23, 2008 at 08:15:28 (EDT)

A few months ago, I bought, online, a couple of old baseball cards of Clyde "Danny" Schell, star Blue Rocks outfielder in 1950-51, who eventually played in about 100 MLB games for the Phillies in 1954-55. A record of my eBay purchase evidently went online, and a day or two ago, I received an email from Danny's grandson Jeff, in Chicago, asking if I'd be willing to part with one of them for a price. In the spirit of "Field of Dreams", I said he could have it at no cost, since he was 'family,' and had an Old Wilmington connection from 50+ years ago.
Bob Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Sunday, June 22, 2008 at 09:25:08 (EDT)

Thought the following from the Phillies 1949 Yearbook was interesting referring to Hall of Fame Pitcher Robin Roberts: A young man the National League believes has a date with pitching stardom . . . a spunky, right-hander with a violent fast ball, a crackling curve and though still a raw rookie in a professional sense, has no fear of any hitter he faces. Signed out of Michigan State, this imperturbable youngster debuted in the Inter-State League with Wilmington last season, fanned an average of nine per game, won nine of 10 decisions and was brought up in mid-June.
Jingles <JJohnson@aol.com>
New Castle, De USA - Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 14:46:06 (EDT)

The form will print full-size on a 8.5 x 11 now.__Here is what to do: Select (left-click) 'pre-sale order form'.__If you have XP, 'Left-Click' on the image to expand it.__Then, 'Right-Click' on the image.__A window will appear.__'Left-Click' "Print Picture..."___From there, select your printer and Print.__You should have a full-size, 8-1/2 x 11 form.__You would not want it any larger then that...
webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 13:08:49 (EDT)

Webmaster, I converted the order form.jpg to order form.pdf, it may be easier to print for many, its sent to your email
Tom Brejwa <tbrejwa@yahoo.com>
Slower Lower, De USA - Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 07:19:11 (EDT)

Webmaster - Can you put up a larger downloadable version of the Order Form for the new book? Surely everyone who reads and writes for oldwilmington.net will want a copy. The present version of the form is too small.
Robert J Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 05:52:35 (EDT)

TO EVERYONE: We want to Thank everyone for your compliments and good wishes.__A note about the book: It is a ‘soft-cover picture book’ in five chapters with introductions and 183 photographs with captions (the advertisement says over 100 photos). __The ‘Foreword’ was provided by WILM Newsradio’s Richard ‘Dick’ Holmes.__It will not be available until late August – it is at the printers now.__The publisher is The History Press and they have provided this pre-sale order form... Select Here for a PDF Version.
webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 05:02:46 (EDT)

The 'bad' guys I knew in the 50s were tough on the outside but mostly nice fellows. It seemed they had to put on a rough front for the other guys. Now in the 60s, the bad guys WERE mean and nasty guys.
c <N>
Wilmington, d USA - Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 04:23:21 (EDT)

I guess I was fortunate. I only went downtown to the movies until the early 50's when we got a TV. From that time on it was Frontier Playhouse and the rerun of the old B westerns. The thugs I saw, but somehow never managed to encounter, to the best of my knowledge didn't carry knives, and most certainly not guns. They weren't shooting one another, or hijacking cars at stop lights. They surely didn't beat up and rob the older people of the neighborhood. Even those bums had some respect, or code about them. There will always be the good guys and the bad guys, but to say the bad guys haven't gotten any worse, one must have their head in the sand, or some other dark place. This is not just confined to Wilmington, but is happening all over the United States. Unfortunately, the world is not what it used to be. It's not just the buildings, and the landmarks, that have changed in every city, but the people. That is the part about the past that is missed the most.
Wayne <twntydasys@aol.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Saturday, June 21, 2008 at 04:18:42 (EDT)

Buz, the nearest thing I had to a "fancy buffet" was when I attended a Dugout Club luncheon at the Rodney in 1956. The featured speaker was Bill Bruton, who, if I remember. was coming off leading the National League in steals three years in a row. I was always a big fan of Bill's, so I thought why not go see him. I got to talk to him after he spoke and he even signed an autograph. Problem was at the end of the proceedings,it was time to pay the tab and, having less than a dollar on me at the time, I was very graciously bailed out by the Dugout Club members. Somehow I didn't have to "have a membership card to get inside," as the old song of the seventies went.
Butch Schilling <fschilling@bellsouth.net>
Aiken, SC USA - Friday, June 20, 2008 at 20:06:47 (EDT)

TO OUR WEBB MASTER HARRY AND HIS WIFE BETTY, CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR MUCH DESERVED RECOGNITION FROM THE CITY COUNCIL OF WILMINGTON , DE..LATE COMING ,BUT BETTER LATE THEN NEVER ! HARRY,YOU AND YOUR WIFE OUTDO YOURSELFS EVERY YEAR !
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK@OL.COM>
TARPON SPRINGS , FL USA - Friday, June 20, 2008 at 17:08:56 (EDT)

Al, I did notice the spelling of Justison Street which I see more than Justin Street.___The map is from the Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps.__They present a lot of history.__I'll post other areas in the future...
webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Friday, June 20, 2008 at 15:04:58 (EDT)

In the 1950s a Saturday trip to a movie theater in Wilmington wasn't always idylic. There were some rough kids who would spend all day in the theater looking for, and making, trouble. We were set upon by a bunch of toughs one day at the Warner. My buddy's Mom called the Warner to complain. She later said a "Mister Black" called her and she was very impressed with his concern and professionalism. PS: By my eye the bad guys in Wilmington then were no better, or worse, than any bad guys I've seen since.
Larry Roszkowiak <larry.roszkowiak@ucsf.edu>
San Francisco, CA USA - Friday, June 20, 2008 at 14:29:23 (EDT)

Congratulations on the award from city council! Es muy bueno!
Sean <sknagel@msn.com>
Puerta Vallarta, Jalisco, , MX USA - Friday, June 20, 2008 at 14:03:56 (EDT)

Anyone ever go to those fancy buffets put on by the Rodney Hotel? My parents and I enjoyed a special meal there at least three or four times a year, back in the fifties. Afterwards, we'd enjoy a walk around the church next door, to walk off the heavy meal. The Dupont Hotel was a close rival for great food, but the ambiance of the Rodney was gracious.
Buz Peoples <whimsywoman@fastmail.fm>
Sequim, WA USA - Friday, June 20, 2008 at 13:11:50 (EDT)

Congratulations to both our Webmasters! It is obvious that OldWilmington.net is having a very positive effect in the community. Thanks too for the great editorial work to help us visitors to contribute to that positive influence rather than distract. Please do tell us more about your new book and when we might see it on the shelf. Did you catch my comment about the 1930 map, "Justin" versus "Justison"? I am still curious to know if you had any more info on that or whether or not the map was use in fire protection.
Al Minne <alminne@msn.com>
Temecula, ca USA - Friday, June 20, 2008 at 11:13:29 (EDT)

Congratulations, Webmaster, to you and your wife for your latest award. It is richly deserved. My day is not complete unless I sign on to "OldWilmington.net". It has been a great source of pleasure to check out "Nostalgia". Thanks for the great job you do.
Pat LeVan <levan1706@bellsouth.net>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Friday, June 20, 2008 at 07:11:28 (EDT)

So, Mr. Webmaster, tell us about your upcoming book. If it relates to Wilmington nostalgia, are you going to be using any of the postings on this site? Are you self-publishing? Will we be able to buy it as a Christmas gift? Do you have a title? Joe Lake, Clyde Prestowitz and now you are Conradians and authors that I know of. Are there others yet?
jim rambo <rammymex@yahoo.com>
ajijic, jalisco Mexico - Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 22:28:44 (EDT)

AL, I THINK MR. BLACK,S KINDNESS RUBBED OFF ON A LOT OF YOUNG BOYS WHO WORKED FOR HIM. HE WAS A GOOD MAN . AND A PLEASURE TO WORK FOR AS YOU WELL KNOW. I THINK ITS GREAT THAT YOU REMEMBER HIS OFFICE , AND WHERE IT WAS LOCATED AND ITS SIZE. YOU WOULD STAND THERE , AND THINK YOU WERE IN THE WHITE HOUSE !
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK@AOL.COM>
TARPON SPRINGS, FL USA - Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 22:39:24 (EDT)

WEBMASTER: Thanks for the new maps. The 1930 South Madison and Justison Streets Map sure shows what Wilmington's dependence on rail service used to be. It is interesting to contrast this map with the 2003 map of Wilmington and note I95's dominance of the area. Trucking is where our dependence has shifted. Excuse the negative thought but although I95 is a great and neccessary resource, it's placement through the city of Wilmington is one of the reasons the city has decayed. Did you note that the map calls out "S.Justin St." not "S. Justison St."? I wonder if this is a typo or the original name later to be changed. There is a lot of info on the map regarding fire fighting equipment could this have been a map used by the Fire Department?
Al Minne <alminne@msn.com>
Temecula, Ca USA - Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 21:43:25 (EDT)

LARRY IS CORRECT. I WAS TRYING TO THINK OF THE NAME OF THE KNIFE STORE AT 10TH. ORANGE ST.. AND IT IS COLENS . WHEN I WALKED THAT BEAT AS A COP. (5TH. DIST. ) I NEVER GOT TIRED OF STANDING THERE AND LOOKING AT ALL THOSE DIFFERANT TYPE KNIVES. I REMEMBER THEY HAD A GOOD COLLECTION OF SWISS ARMY KNIVES . WONDER WHAT TYPE OF BUSINESS IS ON THAT CORNER NOW ? IF ANY . AND HOW LONG WOULD THE COLEN FAMILY HAD STAYED IN BUSINESS TO DAY DISPLAYING KNIVES IN THERE FRONT WINDOWS.
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK@AOL.COM>
TARPON SPRINGS , FL USA - Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 16:10:40 (EDT)

I seem to remember that the knife company near the Warner was called Herder's, but there may have been more than one knife store aat that site.
Jack Riley <jckril@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 15:13:19 (EDT)

ATTENTION!: I have added many new maps to the 'MAP Page'.___One is a map of the South Madison & Justison Streets from the 1930s - some old history there.___There are three 1993 Geological Survey maps of Newark & Wilmington.___Three are maps of the Brandywine Creek area.___Many of them are large format and may take a few moments to load.___Please let me know if there are any problems - I can make them smaller...
webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at 11:14:48 (EDT)

HEY AL, IN REGARDS TO THE 5TH. ST. DOOR AT THE QUEEN. I WOULD JUST BE BAD LUCK FOR YOU, I TRYED THE QUEEN AND THE GRAND THEATRE AS A BOY OF ABOUT 12 YRS. OF AGE .----GOT CAUGHT BOTH TIMES. I WAS LUCKY THOUGH , MANAGER NEVER CALLED MY PARENTS.---GAVE UP AFTER THE 2ND. TRY. IN REGARDS TO MR. BLACK , HE WAS ALSO DIST . MGR. FOR ALL WARNER THEATERS IN DELAWARE. WARNER, RITZ, GRAND ,TO NAME A FEW. MR.BLACK WAS A FRIEND OF THE FAMILY . WHEN I GOT OUT OF THE SERVICE IN 1954. HE ASKED ME TO TAKE THE JOB OF MANAGER AT THE GRAND JUST UNTIL THEY FOUND SOME ONE TO TAKE IT FULL TIME. SO I TOOK THE MGR. JOB FOR SIX MONTHS( 18 MONTHS BEFORE I WENT ON THE WILM. POLICE DEPT. ) NO A.C. IN THE THEATRE, AND I HAD TO WEAR A COAT AND TIE , IT WAS MURDER. AND EVERY KID CAUGHT SNEEKING IN , I NEVER CALLED THERE PARENTS ---TIT FOR TAT ! MR. BLACKS ASST. MGR. WAS A MR. HALL ,FORGOT HIS FIST NAME . BUT AL HERE IS SOMTHING THAT WILL INTREST YOU, YOU MENTIONED MONK ,ONE OF THE MADISON ST. GANG. AND THAT HE WENT LOOKING FOR YOU AFTER THE TROUBLE IN THE WARNER . DONT THINK YOU HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT MONK. YEARS BACK , HE STABBED A GUY JUST ACROOSS THE DEL. MEMORIAL BRIDGE IN JERSEY, GOT FIVE YEARS ! NEVER CAME BACK TO THIS AREA. MONK IS GONE AND FORGOTTON.
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK@AOL.COM>
TARPON SPRINGS , FL USA - Tuesday, June 17, 2008 at 20:12:41 (EDT)

I think the knife etc shop next to the Warner Theater was called Colen For Cutlery.
Larry Roszkowiak <lroszkowiak@yahoo.com>
San Francisco, CA USA - Tuesday, June 17, 2008 at 20:03:03 (EDT)

As a child on 6th Ave. in Browntown I remember the Waffle Man and the Broom man. Who was the waffle man in the truck ?
Deborah <Tcmurph@aol.com>
Lewes, DE USA - Tuesday, June 17, 2008 at 11:06:39 (EDT)

I'm a little confused about the recent history of the space where the Loew's Aldine was located. Ten years ago or so, I thought I stood on the approximate spot where the box office was located. It was in front of a wall with a doorway in it, and when you walked through that doorway, you came into a parking lot that was entered via King Street. Would that have been where the so-called "Baby Grand" was later built, or do I have the locations mixed up?
Bob Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Tuesday, June 17, 2008 at 09:32:08 (EDT)

Ralph, Your post about the Warner seems to say it all for Wilm. in the 70's. Tear it down and use it for parking. As a kid I remember looking at all of the knives in the window of the store on the corner from the Warner before going in to see a movie. It was always the theatre that showed the first run movies and was clean and well run. For a cheaper time we would go to the Ritz on Delaware Ave. after a cherry coke (for a nickel) at the drug store Smith & Strebicks.
Bruce <private>
Sugar Land, TX USA - Tuesday, June 17, 2008 at 07:56:43 (EDT)

RALPH: Thanks for sharing that very interesting bit of history. I must say it is a sad epitaph for the Warner. When I worked there I had the impression that it was the finest theater in Wilmington. CinemaTreasures.org confirmed this by saying: "The Warner Theatre was the largest and most lavish in the State of Delaware. It opened on 8th February 1939. It closed in December 1976 and in the summer of 1977 it was announced that the auditorium section of the building would be demolished and turned into a parking lot." I was suprised when I also read the the Warner seated almost 1800. Let's hope that BPG can save and restore the Queen Theater to it's original glory. If they do I'll look for you at the Fifth Street Door!
Al Minne <alminne@msn.com>
Temecula, Ca USA - Monday, June 16, 2008 at 22:29:35 (EDT)

AL , IN REGARDS TO THE WARNER THEATRE, DURING THE LATE 70,S MOST OF THE BUILDING WAS TORN DOWN, THE LOBBY AREA WAS TURNED INTO A RESTAURANT ! (WHAT A JOKE ) AFTER ABOUT THREE MONTHS THE BUSINESS STARTED TO FOLD. THE OWNER CONTACTED MY WIFE ,IN REGARDS TO BUYING HIM OUT . I WENT WITH MY WIFE STELLA TO THE RESTAURANT , WHEN ENTERING THE KITCHEN AREA THE SIZE OF A LARGE CLOSET ,WE FOUND THEY WERE SERVING FROZEN DINNERS ! THIS WAS AT LUNCH TIME . ---NO VISIBLE CUSTOMERS.WE HAD GONE TO SAID PLACE OF BUSINESS WITH THE HEAD OF THE BEVERAGE , ALCOHOL CONTROL COMM.. WHO I HAD WORKED WITH ON THE WILM. POLICE DEPT.. THIS WAS TO MAKE SURE WE COULD GAIN ACCESS TO EVERY AREA OF THE BUILDING. WHEN WE LEFT SCOTTY SAID , ARE YOU GOING TO BUY THAT PLACE ? I LAUGHED AS DID MY WIFE AND SAID HELL NO ! FEW MONTHS LATTER AL ,THE REMAINING PART OF THE ONCE BEAUTIFUL WARNER THEATRE WAS TORN DOWN AND TURNED INTO------BUT WHAT ELSE ? A PARKING LOT .
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK@AOL.COM>
TARPON SPRINGS, FL USA - Monday, June 16, 2008 at 20:50:51 (EDT)

I dunno, Bruce, I have relatives in Texas, too. :) Not blood, though, just my wife's family.
Matt Hearn <matt@matthearn.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, June 16, 2008 at 20:50:39 (EDT)

Matt, I'm the one native Delawarean that is not related to you.
Bruce <private>
Sugar Land, TX USA - Monday, June 16, 2008 at 14:10:32 (EDT)

Matt Hearn-- I am a usually silent visitor to this site but thought I might let you know I am another relative of yours, you may be related to everyone in the state.
Norman <buckenae@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, June 16, 2008 at 11:05:54 (EDT)

Matt Hearn, I can't send an email to you personally from work, but will when I get home, since we should not use this site to explain our geneology. Regards to all, and hope everyone enjoyed the beautiful weather yesterday on Father's Day. We went to Bellevue Park and heard a tribute to the Beatle's music. It was unexpectedly good. Shirley Hudson Jester
Shirley Hudson Jester <ujest110@aol.com>
Newark, DE USA - Monday, June 16, 2008 at 10:35:15 (EDT)

Thanks for the heads up, Dave! Shirley, I'm not sure how you're related to the Ziegler clan, but my grandmother was Florence Ziegler, became Florence Hearn and produced my dad, and is now Florence Finlaw. It's a small world, ain't it? The older I get the more I'm convinced I'm blood-relation to everybody in the state. :)
Matt Hearn <matt@matthearn.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, June 16, 2008 at 09:08:59 (EDT)

Webmaster: Looking forward to that! Thanks. I hope they decide to do a good restoration. One of the considerations that makes such thing difficult is the requirement that every thing be brought up to cuureent codes. Sometimes impossible and always expensive!
Al Minne <alminne@msn.com>
Temecula, Ca USA - Sunday, June 15, 2008 at 22:36:42 (EDT)

I'll post more of my Queen Theater photos in large format...
webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Sunday, June 15, 2008 at 22:01:24 (EDT)

Kevin: I seem to remember that incident but am not sure whether I was involved or just heard about. Stuff like that happened frequently. I was not aware that the Warner was gone. Last time I saw it I think it was mid 70s and I think I remember being suprised to note that it was no longer showing flics but had switched to some sort of live performances. Do you (or anyone) remember when that might have been? Thanks to the WEBMASTER for the Queen Photos. Looking at them brought back two memories. The fifth Street door got a lot of use letting friends sneak in. I remember the blinding light that would flash accross the audience each time someone popped it open. Of course the offenders would imediately be seated and blend in. The ushers rarely even made an attempt to catch anyone. The other memory was brought back by the shot showing the balcony. I could just make out the railing that divided the back (and highest) section of the balcony from the forward. The area beyond the railing offered the most privacy in the theater if you happend to be there with a date!
Al Minne <alminne@msn.com>
Temecula, Ca USA - Sunday, June 15, 2008 at 21:41:12 (EDT)

Kevind:: The Warner closed in November, 1977 and was demolished the following year.___When that happened, only the Rialto Theater remained...
webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Sunday, June 15, 2008 at 20:54:20 (EDT)

Al, Mr. Black was indeed our neighbor; the Blacks lived directly across Clermont Road from us in the Brandywine Hundred. (We moved there in '62). I remember one time (late 50's) at the Warner, a bunch of my good buddies; Baynard Blvd guys, (we were called "The Baynard Devils" by the good St. Joseph nuns at COK) were watching a Disney Travelogue about the Grand Canyon (it won an Academy for best short subject in '58), anyway, we got bored and started crawling under the seats and laughing and carrying on and got ourselves booted from the theatre, maybe it was YOU who gave us the boot!! LOL! We were definitely NOT thugs and were not into seat slashing or retribution or any other gang type stuff.
Kevind <donohue11@comcast.net>
Ellicott City, Md USA - Sunday, June 15, 2008 at 19:09:19 (EDT)

KEVINd: Do you remember the Warner manager's name? I worked there as an usher in the late 50s. The manager then was Mr Black. At that time he lived in Lancaster Village. I had to quit after I asked a couple of guys to take their feet off the seats. It turned out that they were members of the Madison street gang (Monk and one other) they slashed the seats and when the movie was over they came asking for me. I was off duty but wise enough not to return to work when I was told of it! Monk and I never met but I heard he was looking for me again, a few years later, after I unknowingly dated his girlfriend!
Al Minne <alminne@msn.com>
Temecula , Ca USA - Sunday, June 15, 2008 at 18:15:22 (EDT)

WEBMASTER QUESTION: On the picture titled; "10th Street taken in November, 2007" it shows the (what is now 2222 Delaware Avenue) as butting up against the "PDOF Hall" which still remains today. In the old photo, the Warner is next to that building. The question is; was the Warner demolished to make room for 2222 Delaware Ave? I have been in 2222 several times and long suspected it stands on what once was the Warner but never saw photographic proof until now.
Kevind <donohue11@comcast.net>
Ellicott City, Md USA - Sunday, June 15, 2008 at 17:42:44 (EDT)

Whenever I hear the terms 'Silent Viewers', 'Silent Ones', or 'Silent ...", I always think of Bill Corsair and his all-night radio program with his 'Rascals' on WCAU AM out of Philly.___He and his callers (Rascals) would always mention the 'Silent Listeners'.___Anyone out there ever listen to him? He was on from around 1969 to 1978.
webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Sunday, June 15, 2008 at 17:37:45 (EDT)

A very Happy Fathers Day to all. I'd like to express my good luck, and best wishes to one of our Silent Ones out there. She reads faithfully but I've never seen a post. She is the postmistress in the New Castle Branch who has been home tending a sick husband for quite a while now. Maureen we miss you, take care, and good luck to you and yours. To all a very Happy Fathers Day.
Wayne <twntydasys@aol.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Sunday, June 15, 2008 at 16:55:29 (EDT)

THE PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE OVER 10ST WAS PUT IN BY DUPONT TO GO FROM THE DUPONT BUILDING TO THE MONTCHANIN BUILDING WHEN THEY GOT IT FROM WILMINGTON TRUST.AT THE SAME TIME THEY CONNECTED THE TWO BUILDINGS WITH A TUNNEL UNDER 10ST TO USE FOR SERVICES .
DAVE CAUFFMAN <CAUFFMANDS@AOL.COM>
HOCKESSIN, DE USA - Sunday, June 15, 2008 at 15:27:02 (EDT)

As part of the updates I am doing, This Page will be added. The view of the Warner Theater, taken in 1971 by Carmen Panaro, will be used as the cover of my soon-to-be released book about Wilmington Nostalgia...
webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Sunday, June 15, 2008 at 09:45:04 (EDT)

Re Warner Theatre pix - It was 1970 - "Evis: That's the Way It Is 2-Disc Special Edition It's summer 1970 and this concert documentary allows unrestricted access to the hottest show in town: Elvis Presley's milestone four weeks of appearances at the International Hotel in Las Vegas ."
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, June 15, 2008 at 08:06:25 (EDT)

Looking at the Carmen Panaro photo of the Warner Theater, you can see part of the bridge over 10th St. from the duPont Bldg to ??? This had to be circa 1970 or so, from the featured film on the Warner marquis. I grew up in Wilmington, but can't for the life of me remember a bridge on 10th St. I remember well the bridge between the duPont Bldg and the Nemours Bldg on the 8th floor; crossed it many times in my younger days, 'cuz my mom worked on the 8th floor in the Nemours Bldg. When was the 10th St bridge added, and what did it connect to? Is it still there?
Bill Fisher <whfisheratearthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Sunday, June 15, 2008 at 02:11:29 (EDT)

Dave Zeigler, I know I'm related to you, my great-uncle Reese's son, but I don't know Matt Hearn??? Big family, can't keep up with all of them. Shirley Hudson Jester
Shirley Hudson Jester <ujest110@aol.com>
Newark, DE USA - Saturday, June 14, 2008 at 21:52:29 (EDT)

Actually, the photo for Anderson's painting is from a group of three originals taken by Carmen Panaro. He was a photographer with his office being located in the Edan Hall Building next to the Warner Theater. Go HERE to see a watermarked copy of the original...
webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Saturday, June 14, 2008 at 20:55:26 (EDT)

WARNER THEATRE. The manager of the now defunct Warner lived across the street from us in Clermont off Wilson Road. He used to give us passes to the movies. I can remember waiting in line to see "Old Yeller;" the line went around the block. Here's a good rendition of the old Warner Theatre circa '65. http://www.larryanderson.com/artwork/prints/wilmington/wayitwas.html
Kevind <donohue11@comcast.net>
Ellicott City, Md USA - Saturday, June 14, 2008 at 17:14:56 (EDT)

Hey Matt and Shirley, bet you didn't know you are related to each other, did ya? I know because I'm related to both of youse.
Dave ziegler <dziegler3@comcast.net>
Newark, DE USA - Friday, June 13, 2008 at 21:17:24 (EDT)

Spot on, Shirley. I've sung on both stages over the years and they're pretty fantastic. It didn't even occur to me that the Baby Grand was in the same spot as the old Aldine. Pity they couldn't just use the original building, but I'm pretty sure there was an empty space there for decades before they built the current theater.
Matt Hearn <matt@matthearn.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, June 13, 2008 at 15:52:20 (EDT)

As I'm sure most of you know, the Baby Grand part of the Grand Opera House was originally the Loew's Theater. It's very beautiful, a great venue, as is the Grand Opera House. Wilmington is lucky to have such an awesome, accoustically correct, "music hall". Every performer that we have seen there has remarked on the wonderful sound that resonates throughout the "house". Shirley Hudson Jester
Shirley Hudson Jester <ujest110@aol.com>
Newark, DE USA - Friday, June 13, 2008 at 14:04:35 (EDT)

THEATRES - from the menu pulldown - "Loew's Aldine (The Aldine), 806-810 Market Street (1970)" The year date is the year it closed.
c <nospam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, June 13, 2008 at 10:22:26 (EDT)

Thanks to Joe Johnston, I added some NEW PHOTOS to the 'THEATERS' Page.___Actually, I am now getting around to posting almost 50 new photos in all Nostalgia Categories...
webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Friday, June 13, 2008 at 10:21:45 (EDT)

Oh sure, they're pretty exciting. Hopefully the renovators can just replace what needs replacing and polish everything up; I'd hate for them to rip everything out, although even if they plan to restore it to how it was they may have to remove everything and deal with issues in the walls. Who knows. I'm just surprised that in an age where everything that ever happened, is happening, or will happen is documented on the intarwebs, that there's no detailed plan for what the architects/engineers will do. But as our intrepid webmaster said, they won't know what they can do until they survey what they've got. I asked my dad (who grew up in and around Stanton in the 50s and 60s) if he had been to the Queen Theater, but he wasn't sure; he remembered going to one at Delaware Ave and Orange Street (he thinks called The Warner) and another one he couldn't name that was near the Grand Opera House at 8th and Market. Both long gone, I imagine.
Matt Hearn <matt@matthearn.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, June 13, 2008 at 08:01:21 (EDT)

Matt: have you looked at the drop down menu and the pictures?
Tom Brejwa <tbrejwa@yahoo.com>
Slower Lower, De USA - Thursday, June 12, 2008 at 17:36:49 (EDT)

Hey Tom, thanks, I saw that too. I was hoping to find a more detailed renovation plan, to determine if they're going to restore the look of the original exterior and interior, or if they plan to just make it into a modern style. If it's the latter, I'd like to know now so I can plan my letter-writing campaign. :) I was born disastrously late in the game, and I'd like to see all the old buildings restored to their original glory so I can imagine what it was like when my great-grandmother was driving a bus down market street in 1960.
Matt Hearn <matt@matthearn.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, June 12, 2008 at 15:13:55 (EDT)

Anyone been to google maps lately? they have expanded their street view quite a bit>
Tom Brejwa <tbrejwa@yahoo.com>
Slower Lower, De USA - Thursday, June 12, 2008 at 14:22:49 (EDT)

Any site you go to will say basically the same thing: "...the renovation...as a new live entertainment venue" or "...converted into a performing arts and restaurant space".___Another one states "...the historic landmark will be restored to its original theatrical / performance use". The one site I would rely on is this one.

If you look at the photos taken on the main floor (orchestra seating), you can see several test borings (dug holes).___Various utility service lines were found.___The concrete support columns were other items of interest.___The representative from the BPG, who guided us through the theater, did not give us any definite plans for the building.___However, it was realized that no decision will be made until engineers complete their inspections.___Anyone who wants to view our photos can go HERE...
webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Thursday, June 12, 2008 at 13:08:52 (EDT)

Matt: I came across this in google, states plans for Market street building proposals, mentions the Queen Theater on page 2,,, http://www.wilmingtonparking.com/pdfs/newsletter.pdf
Tom Brejwa <tbrejwa@yahoo.com>
Slower Lower, De USA - Thursday, June 12, 2008 at 11:19:35 (EDT)

Webmaster and others, do you know what the detailed plans for the Queen Theater are? My googling revealed little other than it's going to be some kind of live theater again, but I can't find any details, and I'm curious to know how much of the building they want to leave intact. It'd be completely awesome to hear an organ concert there, or even perform on the stage!
Matt Hearn <http://www.matthearn.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, June 12, 2008 at 10:00:19 (EDT)

Wayne talks about how it is today re: customer shopping experiences in thw Wilmington area (and anywhere else in the country today, for that matter, and dealing with underpaid and underqualified sales personnel. It calls to mind how different it was at Mullin's men's store back in the 50's and 60's at 6th and Market. Their sales and service staff were superb. What else can I say?
Bob Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Thursday, June 12, 2008 at 09:57:36 (EDT)

Wayne, Your anger/frustration is palpable and descriptive of what many experience today. Stay cool. You have "jogged" a lot of memories: shopping with Mom, white gloves mandatory. Shopping with DH @ Paulins for baby furniture and delivering, putting the crib & bassinet together.
Barb <barb@comcasr..net>
Peabody, MA USA - Wednesday, June 11, 2008 at 22:10:16 (EDT)

My dad was in the CCC during that time. I do have photos.
franmar <franmar261@yahoo.com>
Newark, De USA - Wednesday, June 11, 2008 at 21:55:41 (EDT)

1. I vaguely remember a time when the pools were closed because of the Polio scare. 2. I liked the old Prices Run pool because kids could walk across it on the small kids end. It was graded like the beach on that end.
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, June 11, 2008 at 11:05:09 (EDT)

Whenever I am reminded of the pools in Wilmington, I remember Prices Run. I had the privilege of attending both it and Canby. The one at Canby Park was like a kiddie pool when you compared it to the old Prices Run. In fact there was no comparison. As I've said before, I can remember walking down Locust Street on Sunday mornings, headed off to church, and watching the sailboat races in the Prices Run Pool. You'd be lucky if you could float a rubber duck in the pool at Canby Park. Yet, they still say size doesn't make a difference. Whatever, we sure could have used either of them over the past few days. Somewhat related, wasn't there a time when they were closed because of the polio scare?
Wayne <twntydasys@aol.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Wednesday, June 11, 2008 at 10:20:56 (EDT)

I received an e-mail asking if anyone can remember any remaining trolley car tracks well into the 1960s?___Tracked service ended in 1940.___The ones I can remember are:

> The turning tracks at 4th & Market Streets were there until about 1960. I think it was until around the time Market Street was repaved.
> The tracks that crossed the B&O Railroad tracks on Maryland Avenue near Germay Drive. They were there until around 1970.
> The tracks on Maryland Avenue near Front Street. They hung around until I-95 was constructed around 1963.
> The tracks right at the car barn. They were there until late 1950s.
> I also remember short sections of tracks on North Market Street.

webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Wednesday, June 11, 2008 at 09:24:57 (EDT)

My pool memories as a city kid relate to the Canby Pool near St. Elizabeth's. We lived on the top floor of an apartment house, just under a tar roof, but those hot summer days were more bearable, thanks to the pool. There was no air conditioning at home, or at school in May and June for that matter, so we relied on hoses for quick relief. Leaving Canby, we always had hokey pokey snowballs or sticky apples to consume on our eight block walk back to Connell Street.
jim rambo <rammymex@yahoo.com>
ajijic, jalisco Mexico - Tuesday, June 10, 2008 at 21:27:21 (EDT)

This current heat wave reminds me of Prices Run Swimming Pool. It was free mornings (I think they opened about 10 AM) and we'd be waiting in line shivering in 55 - 60 degrees with our sweaters on. We froze through that shower we had to run through, froze when we came out of the water, and later enjoyed the summer warmth on the walk home.
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Tuesday, June 10, 2008 at 18:56:50 (EDT)

Does anyone know Richard or Larry Maloney (brothers).
Mildred Maloney Mills <mmills15@roadrunner.com >
Newark, OH USA - Monday, June 09, 2008 at 19:20:10 (EDT)

My Uncle Walter "Boz" Lutrzykowski was in and knew Robert Mitchum before he was a star, dont know what camp they were at, and cant ask him now.
Tom Brejwa <tbrejwa@yahoo.com>
Slower Lower, De USA - Monday, June 09, 2008 at 16:54:54 (EDT)

My uncle, John Mulherin, was in the CCC during those very years, I believe. Somewhere around I have an old photo album of pictures he took in one of the camps. I will look around for it.
Pat LeVan <levan1706@bellsouth.net>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Monday, June 09, 2008 at 16:22:26 (EDT)

Was anyone here In or knew someone in the CCC between 1933 and 1942?
Tom Brejwa <tbrejwa@yahoo.com>
Slower Lower, De USA - Monday, June 09, 2008 at 15:53:45 (EDT)

I fondly remember Al Cartwright's column for the Journal. I was particularly partial to his character, representing U of D football, Bluewynn Gold. (sp?) The guy really brought Delaware football to life through Bluewynn. He was also right on top of happenings with the Phillies. Al was a Claymonster from Seminole Avenue, near where I once lived and a "good guy". Locals also lost the talents of Hal Bodley, another good sports journalist writing for national publications.
jim rambo <rammymex@yahoo.com>
ajijic, jalisco Mexico - Monday, June 09, 2008 at 10:34:13 (EDT)

TO ALL THE P S FANS: DID U KNOW THAT CHIP READ FROM THE WASHINGTON OFFICE OF NBC FATHER WAS A MUSIC TEACHER AT P S. CHARLIE READ.
Jerry Lank <transworldtsl@delaware.usa.com>
Marco Island, FL USA - Sunday, June 08, 2008 at 21:07:44 (EDT)

Connie, glad to hear Baynard Stadium is being named for Al Cartwright, a great sports editor and a great guy, whom I met when his son, Al. Jr. and I were on George Frick's "The Batboys" show in 1952.
Butch Schilling <fschilling@bellsouth.net>
Aiekn, SC USA - Sunday, June 08, 2008 at 17:14:37 (EDT)

How about 'The Wedge' monument?___My father took me there once to see it in the early 1950s.___I have not been back since.___Has anyone been there lately to see it?
webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Sunday, June 08, 2008 at 01:23:42 (EDT)

This explains it even more........ http://www.climber.org/Feature/HighPoints2000/de.html
Terri <LilSis923@comcast.net>
Hugo, MN USA - Saturday, June 07, 2008 at 23:58:20 (EDT)

look at this!,,, http://www.netstate.com/states/geography/de_geography.htm
Tom Brejwa <tbrejwa@yahoo.com>
Slower Lower, De USA - Saturday, June 07, 2008 at 20:59:55 (EDT)

Since when has Ebright Road off Naaman's Road been the highest point in Delaware? I always thought it was 440 feet, and was out near the Kennett Pike in Centreville. Whatver happened to that High Point? Did it get lower over time? Is it because of Global Warming?
Bob Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Saturday, June 07, 2008 at 20:43:55 (EDT)

Baynard Stadium field to be named after Al Cartwright - copy and paste for the full story - http://www.delawareonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080607/SPORTS/806070350/0/RSS1209
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Saturday, June 07, 2008 at 11:59:14 (EDT)

I thought it would be interesting to go back and read some of the old post' on this site. I can't remember when I first found out about it but I believe it was at least a year after it started. Anyway when the postings first started the writers never put their names or email addresses at the bottom of their post. However in reading the very first page of post' on this site I was able to determine who the writer was because I walked the beat on East 4Th street back in the late 50's and early 60's. And especially when she said they moved from East 4TH Street to North Clayton Street. Am I right CLOUDY? Can you see how this GREAT site keeps the people of our dying City in touch? Great job Mr. Webmaster.
Ray Jubb <golfopera@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE. USA - Saturday, June 07, 2008 at 11:44:26 (EDT)

Apparently there were different versions of the Candid Camera prank. This is from the Delaware on Line archives - "1965: On May 21, a "Delaware Closed Today" sign is posted at a barricade on the Delaware-Pennsylvania line on Ebright Road. "The people of Delaware are doing something about the population explosion," explains "Candid Camera." One motorist asks if he can wait at the barricade until someone leaves, so he can come into the state."
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Saturday, June 07, 2008 at 08:33:09 (EDT)

Connie: Thanks for the info on Ebright Road. I didn't realize the area was Delaware's Highpoint. For most of my life I believed Penny Hill was the high point at 300ft. I went there on virtual earth and found I was also mistaken about Penny Hill's altitude it is actually around 200 feet. Ebright is 448 feet acording to Highpointers.org
Al Minne <alminne@msn.com>
Temecula, CA USA - Friday, June 06, 2008 at 23:41:48 (EDT)

CONNIE: I wonder if Candid Camera did two similar bits because the one I remember was a I said before. After the stop the guard explained that Delaware was full and no more people could enter until some came out. When a car came out he would open the gate and allow them in. Of course this too cause some fun and interesting comments from the drivers.
Al Minne <alminne@msn.com>
Temecula, CA USA - Friday, June 06, 2008 at 23:07:06 (EDT)

The movie that I mentioned with Paul Newman was not Philadelphia Story - it was From the Terrace. More in which Wilmington or Delaware was mentioned: American Beer (2004), Failure to Launch (2006), The Roost (2005), Violets are Blue (1986),Wind Chill (DVD horror movie)-(2007). I didn't find any clips for any of these movies.
Patty <pattywerk@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, June 06, 2008 at 19:16:16 (EDT)

FOUND IT - "Backpacker Magazine – May 2004 High Points: Ebright Azimuth, Delaware True highpointers will find this peak. by: Joe Glickman The Peak: 448 feet A bump in Wilmington's suburban sprawl, Ebright Azimuth sits in the median of a busy two-lane road between a radio tower and a trailer park. It's enough to make you drive right on by, and most sensible people do. Highpointers, however, pose for photos by the sturdy blue sign on the side of Ebright Road. The Prank In 1963, Candid Camera and the Delaware Highway Patrol set up a roadblock at the state line, roughly 25 yards from the highpoint, with a sign reading: "Delaware is Closed Today." Motorists were told that the state was under repair and that they should try again tomorrow. One driver meekly asked, "Is Jersey open?"
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, June 06, 2008 at 17:14:50 (EDT)

CONNIE: I remember that bit and think and tell of it often. I remember the guard wore a really goofy looking uniform and they actually had a manual gate which he opened only after a car came out of Deleware which allowed some else to enter. It was one of the best they ever did. Do you remember what road it was set on. I think it was up around Yorklyn, may Old Kennett Road. I do remeber it was a back road with next to no traffic which created a good wait.
Al Minne <alminne@msn.com>
Temecula , CA USA - Friday, June 06, 2008 at 16:06:05 (EDT)

Does anyone remember the Candid Camera bit where they stopped people at the Delaware state line and told them Delaware was full and they couldn't let anymore people in?
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Friday, June 06, 2008 at 11:33:38 (EDT)

in At Close Range...the movie about tractor theves just over the boarder in PA Christopher Walken says about his ex wife..."so I hear shes sleepin with that shifty lawyer from wilmington". Also several references to multiple sites in Delaware in a film called Fight Club. Also in Waynes World there is a delaware reference.
drufo <private>
wilm, de USA - Friday, June 06, 2008 at 07:29:21 (EDT)

Harry and Ralph - I have it from a reliable source that the Ellerslie mansion eventually evolved into the site of the offices or maybe the laboratory for the DuPont titanium dioxide paint pigment plant at Edgemoor, and it sat on a slight rise on the property that is otherwise flat as a pancake along the Delaware River shore. That has always struck me as a odd site for a wealthy family's seat. And another "Hollywood" film that featured a lot of Wilmington mentions in it was the one produced for private release by DuPont on the history of the company on the advent of its 150th anniversary. Many semi-famous feature film character actors appeared in it, including Edouard Franz, Luis Van Rooten and Charles Lane, each one portraying a different DuPont boss over the years. The feature-length film was shown to employees and their families at, where else, the old Edgemoor Theatre back in 1952.
Bob Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Friday, June 06, 2008 at 06:50:06 (EDT)

RALPH:: That mansion was "Ellerslie" located roughly where DuPont's Edgemoor site is now...
webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Thursday, June 05, 2008 at 19:03:36 (EDT)

WEB MASTER HARRY,ABOUT 30 YRS. AGO . THEY DID A MINI- SERIES ON THE GREAT WRITTER F. SCOTT FITZGERALD. AS WE ALL KNOW ONE OF HIS GREAT NOVELS WAS THE GREAT GATSBY !. I REMEMBER WHEN THE MOVIE STARTED., IT SHOWED A TRAIN COMING INTO THE TRAIN STATION AT FRONT AND FRENCH ST. AND YOU SEE A SIGN NEAR THE PLATFORM READING ---WILMINGTON. AND MOST OF US KNOW . THE FITZGERALDS RENTED A MANSION CLOSE TO THE DELAWARE RIVER. LOCATED BETWEEN WILMINGTON AND CLAYMONT . FROM SOME OF THE OLD OLD POLICE RECORDS . I CAME ACROSS . THEY ,THE FIZGERALDS KEPT THE WILMINGTON POLICE BUSY . . THEY WERE HEAVY DRINKERS AS WERE MOST OF THERE FRIENDS WHO CAME TO VISIT THEM.
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK@AOL.COM>
TARPON SPRINGS, FL USA - Thursday, June 05, 2008 at 18:16:12 (EDT)

And we all remember that "Dead Poets Society" was filmed at St. Andrews' Academy near Middletown, with clips shot in New Castle, Westover Hills and Rockland... right?
Bill Fisher <whfisheratearthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Thursday, June 05, 2008 at 18:06:44 (EDT)

Harry, RE Delaware being mentioned in movies. I think one movie is The Philadelphia Story, starring Paul Newman & Joanne Woodward.
Patty <pattywerk@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, June 05, 2008 at 12:28:52 (EDT)

Speaking of the old Wilmington ball Park - here is a photo of the Scoreboard...
webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Thursday, June 05, 2008 at 09:39:35 (EDT)

BOB WILSON:: I am not aware of a listing and I did not know about the movie in question.___If one or two (or several) of our viewers/posters want to get a list started, I'll create a page to show them...
webmaster <web-master@oldwilmington.net>
Wilmington/Perryville, DE/MD USA - Thursday, June 05, 2008 at 09:10:00 (EDT)

Everyone, check out Rambo's stories. They are great! (And you get a wedge of lime with each one...LOL!) And I too, get a kick out of hearing a mention of Wilmington or Delaware whenever someone mentions them in a movie. The Sinatra version of "Manchurian Candidate" ran on TCM just a short while ago, but I missed the Delaware, Maryland, palaver bit. Webmaster, has anyone ever compiled a list of Hollywood films in which either our hometown or our home state is mentioned?
Bob Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Thursday, June 05, 2008 at 08:51:27 (EDT)

i WAS WATCHING THE mANCHURIAN CANDIDATE AND THIS LINE CAME UP THAT I NEVER NOTICED BEFORE...ROSIE Maryland's a beautiful state. MARCO This is Delaware. ROSIE I know. I was one of the original Chinese workmen who laid the track on this stretch. But, um, nonetheless, Maryland is a beautiful state. So is Ohio, for that matter. i LOVE WHEN DELAWARE MAKES IT INTO A FILM
DRUFO <private>
wilmDEL, DE USA - Wednesday, June 04, 2008 at 21:50:27 (EDT)

Back in the late 1970's, I used to go swimming at Hoopes almost every day in the summer. It was great. The cops would come bye every so ofter and make everyone leave but as long as you went peacefully I never saw anyone get arrested. There were platforms in one of the trees that we used to jump out of. The higher ones were way up there. Must have been crazy. Did anyone else ever swim, or fish, at Hoopes?
8Yaz <private>>
Newark, De USA - Wednesday, June 04, 2008 at 13:33:23 (EDT)

For you baseball fans, I posted a story on OurEcho.com titled "The Catcher In My Eyes" a while back. It's a short story about my adventure, as a fourteen year old, at the old Wilmington Ball Park. A friend and I had the opportunity, in April, 1955, to be bat boys for the New York Yankees at the old park. It was the day before opening day in New York. Mantle, Berra, Rizzuto and others are discussed. It's on Page Four of my postings there. Other Wilmington stories there include "Garage Lessons", "Contract for Silence", "Music and Keeping Time" and others. They will eventually be part of an anthology based on the Wilmington experience.
jim rambo <rammymex@yahoo.com>
ajijic, jalisco Mexico - Wednesday, June 04, 2008 at 10:43:19 (EDT)

Jesse LeVan, according to Wikipedia, was banned from baseball in 1959 for consorting with gamblers (shades of Leo Durocher!). But this was almost 10 years after he was in the Interstate League vs. The Blue Rocks in circa 1950. Consult the Chance book or Bill Fisher to find out why he was a favorite target of "Boos!" from the Wilmington fans. Me, I forget...
Bob Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Wednesday, June 04, 2008 at 09:18:29 (EDT)

Hoopes Resevoir tidbits - June 4 "1932 The Edgar M. Hoopes, Jr. Reservoir, water supply for the City of Wilmington, was dedicated near Greenville. One hundred feet deep in some places, the water inundated the Old Mill, built in 1732, and used as a summer home by T. Coleman du Pont."
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Wednesday, June 04, 2008 at 08:12:41 (EDT)

Seeing the post about the "hated Jesse LeVan" certainly brings back memories. My dad played semi-pro ball in the Wilmington area in the 1920's. He remained a serious fan of the Blue Rocks forever. As a young girl, I told him I had a new beau whose name happened to be LeVan. He drew a deep breath and said: "I hope he isn't any relation to that crook Jesse LeVan". He wasn't and I ended up marrying him (Don, not Jesse). I guess my question is: What did Jesse LeVan do anyway? My feeling was he must have thrown a game or something. Can anyone enlighten me?
Patricia (Stillwell) LeVan <levan1706@bellsouth.net>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Tuesday, June 03, 2008 at 21:14:47 (EDT)

They may have been the Braves then. I always remembered them being called the Suns, though.
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, d USA - Tuesday, June 03, 2008 at 18:25:54 (EDT)

Swifty - THEY DID THEN! I remember how angry he was and wouldn't speak to me all the way home because our Blue Rocks beat his Suns. I think the re was a time when had no team after that, then they got another one. Maybe that's how the Owls came in and maybe that's why they're in a different league now.
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Tuesday, June 03, 2008 at 16:55:02 (EDT)

Joe Mosbrook: I had the same recollection about the Hagerstown baseball club being named the "Owls". Having seen them play at the old Wilmington Ball Park, I did a little snooping and found this from the team history: In 1941, after an 11-year absence, professional baseball returned when Owen Sterling moved his Sunbury, PA Detroit Tiger franchise to Hagerstown. He named his new team the Hagerstown Owls (standing for Owen, Win, Luck, and Sterling) and joined the Class B Interstate League. Sterling sold the team to Gene Raney, who in 1950 affiliated the team with the Boston Braves, and the team became the Hagerstown Braves. Soon after, in 1953, the team again changed affiliation to the Washington Senators and moved into the Piedmont League. The team name was again changed to the Hagerstown Packets. The Piedmont League folded after the 1955 season and professional baseball was absent from Hagerstown indefinitely. In 1981, Lou Eliopulos ended the hiatus of professional baseball in the area when he moved his Florence, S.C. team to Hagerstown, refurbished the stadium, and began the Hagerstown Suns. The team was an affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles and part of the Class A Carolina League. The Suns became the League Champions in their inaugural year.
Bill Fisher <whfisheratearthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Tuesday, June 03, 2008 at 16:53:46 (EDT)

I know it's not Wilmington history, but for the history of the Hagerstown minor league team, check out this web site: http://hagerstownsuns.com/ballpark.php. They do not play in the same league as the Blue Rocks.
Swifty <williamwswift@aol.com>
Middletown, DE USA - Tuesday, June 03, 2008 at 15:31:22 (EDT)

My cousin from Hagerstown and I went to a Blue Rocks vs Hagerstown Suns game at the old Wilmington Ball Park sometime in the late 40s or early 50s.
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Tuesday, June 03, 2008 at 12:20:06 (EDT)

At some point in my youth the Hagerstown baseball team was call the Owls.
Joe Mosbrook <joe.mosbrook@multiverse.com>
Cleveland Heights, OH USA - Tuesday, June 03, 2008 at 10:32:55 (EDT)

The Hagerstown baseball teams was called the Hagerstown Suns.
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Tuesday, June 03, 2008 at 08:50:35 (EDT)

Thanks so much for the information on the Blue Rocks. It was exactly what I needed. You guys are wonderful!
Carol Gibson Illingworth <cillingworth@comcast.net>
WILMINGTON, d USA - Tuesday, June 03, 2008 at 08:49:47 (EDT)

Elbert Chance of Newark has written a fully documented book on the entire history of the Blue Rocks. I'll bet you can find it at Google. I think it was published by Delaware's own Cedar Tree Press. Curt Simmons, Robin Roberts, Skeeter Newsome, Danny Carnevale, you name 'em...anyone who once played in games in Wilmington vs. the York White Roses, the Lancaster Red Roses, the Sunbury A's, the Hagerstown Whatevers, and the Trenton Giants, and you'll find them and their stats in there...including the hated opponent, Jesse LeVan. That was the Good Old Class B Interstate League, when the Blue Rocks used to wear the last years' Phillies home uniforms.
Bob Wilson Jr <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Beaufort, SC USA - Monday, June 02, 2008 at 19:55:10 (EDT)

heres another good site!: http://www.russpickett.com/history/baseball.htm
Tom Brejwa <tbrejwa@yahoo.com>
Slower Lower, de USA - Monday, June 02, 2008 at 19:35:44 (EDT)

carol, look here, some history of the Blue Rocks,,, http://www.bluerocks.com/history.php
Tom Brejwa <tbrejwa@yahoo.com>
Slower Lower, De USA - Monday, June 02, 2008 at 19:32:18 (EDT)

Does anyone remember the exact years that the old Wilmington Blue Rocks played at 30th and Governor Printz Boulevard?
Carol Gibson Illingworth <cillingworth@comcast.net>
WILMINGTON, DE USA - Monday, June 02, 2008 at 19:12:44 (EDT)

Larry Anderson has link on his website for a great nostalgic art print that shows the glory days at Brandywine Raceway: http://www.larryanderson.com/artwork/prints/nostalgic_delaware/raceway.html. The Old Wilmington.net webmaster has/had a GOOGLE view of the "outline" of the old Brandwine Raceway which was (then) in the process of Toll Bros building Million dollar homes on it. I've got a link to it on my Class of '67 website; http://www.kevin67.com/Brandywine%20Raceway%20Google.jpg. "Heeeere they come-therrrrrreee they go!"
Kevind <donohue11@comcast.net>
Ellicott City, MD USA - Monday, June 02, 2008 at 15:26:40 (EDT)

Great pictures of Queen Theatre and Hoopes Reservoir. In late September or October, the foliage view around Hoopes is absolutely breathtaking! Wonder how many kids drowned while swimming in the reservoir? Shirley Hudson Jester
Shirley Hudson Jester <ujest110@aol.com>
Newark, DE USA - Monday, June 02, 2008 at 13:50:29 (EDT)

Searched on Yahoo for Riverview Park NJ and found this site - http://www.amusementparknostalgia.com/indri.html
Connie <N>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, June 02, 2008 at 13:03:24 (EDT)

I went to Mrs. Robino's restaurant yesterday for dinner. Always my favorite, and always good. My sister and brothers, myself and our spouses, have gone there every New years day for about 24 years. LOVE THIS SITE EVEN IF I DON'T COMMENT VERY OFTEN! THANKS, WEBMASTER. GREAT JOB! Shirley Hudson Jester
Shirley Hudson Jester <ujest110@aol.com>
Newark, DE USA - Monday, June 02, 2008 at 11:38:59 (EDT)

I noted in the paper that "Doc" Doherty has passed on. I remember seeing him play for UD at the old Blue Rocks Stadium in 1946 and 1947. He was a really shifty runner.
Bob Veazey <bobbyvz@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, June 02, 2008 at 11:32:03 (EDT)

Webmaster, I went to the drop down box for Beaches and Parks and you have a link for Riverview Park. I'm afraid the web site no longer has Riverview Park, NJ. When I went to Sacred Heart we had a end of the year school trip to Riverview. Always a fun time.
Bruce <private>
Sugar Land, TX USA - Monday, June 02, 2008 at 10:05:52 (EDT)

I used to have a blast at BrandyWINe...i won a lot of money on a guy named Vinal Kirby...that was maybe the most lovely infield in all of racing.
drufo <private>
wilm, de USA - Monday, June 02, 2008 at 09:55:41 (EDT)

In the 60's I used to go to Brandywine Raceway for the last 2 races. (They let you in for free for the last 2). I don't ever remember cashing in a winning ticket. Back in those days, I lived on Naamans Road and it was just a little 2 lane road.
Swifty <williamwswift@aol.com>
Middletown, DE USA - Monday, June 02, 2008 at 08:40:42 (EDT)

June 2 "1995 Brandywine Raceway north of Wilmington on Naaman's Road which opened in 1953 was razed to make way for a shopping center."
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, June 02, 2008 at 07:40:20 (EDT)

DANNY , I AGREE WITH OUR WEB MASTER. NO ONE COULD HAVE PUT IT ANY BETTER THEN YOU DID----NOT EVEN OMAR KHAYYAM ! IT SHOULD BE SHARED WITH ALL THE PEOPLE OF WILMINGTON,DE. BUT DANNY, YOU PAINTED A PICTURE WITH YOUR WORDS ! AGAIN THANK YOU.
RALPH PRYOR <REPJFK@AOL.COM>
TARPON SPRINGS, FL USA - Sunday, June 01, 2008 at 22:00:00 (EDT)

The historical society, located between 5th and 6th on Market St. with an entrance on Shipley, is another good resource for revisiting memories of old Wilmington. They have shelves of books on the subject and it seems to be a very user-friendly place. On my recent visit, I stopped in for a moment and was able to determine that my former barber and excellent Wilmington pool player, Nicky Roberts (who we discussed in this column some time ago), passed away on April 4, 2001 at the age of 64. It's sobering to realize that along with Nicky and the others who all of us knew personally, the sea of people with their shopping bags and overcoats who towered over us as children, crowding the sidewalk alongside the curb of the Farmers Market on King St., and who seemed to be an everlasting presence on Market St., have all gone to their earthly reward. Yes, the city has changed: schools and neighborhoods and friendly little store fronts mowed down for the interstate or demolished for "urban renewal," along with many of the other markers like movie theatres and high-school hangouts that we formerly used to navigate our city, have been removed. But its really the people, even those we didn't know, whose absence creates the greater poignancy. This is the poignancy that translates into our sense (or at least my sense) of abject loss of that which is ineffable but precious with its tangental glimmer that illuminates the increasing speed of our own fleeting mortality. Yes, do continue to visit this website as a touchstone for the goodness that was the early part of our lives, but please don't forget to cherish this very day.
Danny Stat <daniel@statnekov.com>
Salt Spring Island, BC Canada - Sunday, June 01, 2008 at 15:56:36 (EDT)

Re DEERHEAD hotdogs - as with many other favorite foods, when someone buys out the original they often use the good name of the original to sell something that's cheaper to make.
Connie <nospam>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, June 01, 2008 at 06:59:19 (EDT)

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