oldwilmington_nostalgia_archive

Visitors Nostalgia & Memories

(Archive #7: June 2004 - July 2004)

Does anyone remember the Friday night Smorgasbord Dinners at Davey Jones's Locker,off Pennsylvania ave. (Green Hill Golf Course)??? Paul Richardson played there for awhile,in the Summer,in the 1970's
K.BURTON <breckslnkid10@yahoo.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Saturday, July 31, 2004 at 15:23:04 (EDT)

i remember trumpet player ralph pryor. i saw him play a jazz concert with paul richardson a del. organist..it was back in the early 60,s i believe. may be at the state armory 9th. du pont st.. they were good .
amy <amy-420@msn.com>
dickerson, md USA - Saturday, July 31, 2004 at 14:37:12 (EDT)

even before i attended wilm high i always looked forward to the big thanks giving game with p.s . . one thing that stands out in my mine at that game was, a little old gentelman walking up the bleachers on wilmington,s side of the field, he carried his famous cherry and white umberella with with the letters whs and class 1923 i believe... he owned a leather shop at 3rd. market st. .does any one rsmember his name? oh yes, he always got big cheersand standing ovation from the red devil crowd
ralph pryor <repjfk@aol.com>
tarpon springs, fl USA - Saturday, July 31, 2004 at 14:16:12 (EDT)

Ralph, I remember you best in some mebtal connection I have with you, and Claire and Dewitt Fielder, for some reason. Dewitt passed away last year. In 1950, I used to hang around 23rd and Jefferson with the "gang" I call the "Garfield Boys (and Girls)". Remember Ken Pickering, Nate Hall, Bob Everett, John Booth, Don Walker, Don Rodenhiser, Billy Hoerner, Don McCormick, Ronnie Grant and Gee-Gee Heath? They were all more or less part of that gang, along with Dewitt and Claire. If you've been reading the older posts here, I'm sure you've seen all of these names mentioned at least once. Ron Grant has passed away, Don Walker is living in British Columbia, and Rodenhiser lives in Dover, DE.
Bob Wilson
Stamford, CT USA - Friday, July 30, 2004 at 21:32:50 (EDT)

BOB, YOU BROUGHT BACK MEMORIES WHEN YOU MENTIONED THE DEVILS DEN . I WAS BORN AN RAISED IN WILM. . AND EVERY KID WHO LIVED IN UOR NEIGHBORHOOD HAD TO CRAWL THROUGH DEVILS DEN , THE CEILING WAS ONLY ABOUT 4FT. HIGH. . DID SOME FISHING ALSOIN THE POND NEXT TO BANCROFTS ,NEAR THE SWINGING BRIDGE, . I AM 72 YRS. OLD BUT I STILL THINK ABOUT THE SUMMERS AT THE BRANDY WINE. REPJFK@AOL.COM
RALPH <REPJFK@AOL.COM>
TARPON SPRINGS, FL USA - Friday, July 30, 2004 at 17:24:17 (EDT)

WAS BORN AND RAISED AT 9 TH. CLAYTON ST. REMEMBER THE RESERVOIR BETWEEN CLAYTON AND RODNEY ? DURING THE WINTER MONTHS YOU COULD NOT FIND A BETTER PLASE TO SLED IN THE CITY ! THE HILLS WERE VERY LONG AND STEEP. DURING THE 40,S AND 50,S BOB MCDANIEL AND I WOULD SLED TILL OUR PARENTS DRUG US HOME... NOW I HEAR IT,S FENCED OFF . THE DOPE HEADS AND MUGGERS TOOK IT OVER. THE GOOD PEOPLE ALWAYS HAVE TO SUFFER FOR THE BAD. ITS HARD TO BELIEVE THAT SUCH A BEAUTIFUL PARK IS OFF LIMITS , ITS LIKE THE BERLIN WALL. OPEN THE RESERVOIR, GET RID OF THE DOPE HEADS. R.PRYOR REPJFK@AOL.COM
RALPH <REPJFK@AOL.COM>
TARPON SPRINGS, FL USA - Friday, July 30, 2004 at 16:39:25 (EDT)

I just found out that my dad, Gordon DelGiorno was a "huckster" in the 1930's. Selling produce from a truck. I would like to find out more about "hucksters" or if anymore remembers my dad, has photos, etc. Please email gordon@filmbrothers.com
Gordon DelGiorno <gordon@filmbrothers.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, July 29, 2004 at 13:48:26 (EDT)

I remember Ralph Pryor at PS DuPont in the very early 1950's, where he played trumpet in the band. He used to live, or hung out, in the 9th Ward around 21st or 22nd and Madison, and was seen frequently around the neighborhood teenage gathering spots near Garfield's statue at 23rd, Jefferson and Concord. Never knew he went onto the Force. Another guy who went to PS, was in my class of 1952 and went onto the Force was Jack McCool, who actually rose to the rank of Police Chief. He was a heckuva nice guy at PS. I have no idea of whatever happened to either Ralph or Jack.
Bob Wilson
Stamford, CT USA - Wednesday, July 28, 2004 at 22:10:42 (EDT)

Don't remember a trumpet-playing cop, but I do remember Lem Winchester, the cop who played great vibes and went to the Newport Jazz Festival in '58 to play rings around the likes of Terry Gibbs! I even got to sit in on a set with Lem once when he was appearing at Horn & Hardart's at the north end of the Wilm. Merchandise Mart. What a tragic and needless loss of a super talent...!
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, Ca USA - Wednesday, July 28, 2004 at 19:08:40 (EDT)

SPITTING JOHN ALWAYS THREW ROCKS AND SPIT ON PEOPLE
NORMAN COOPER <NCOOPER@NUCAR.COM>
NEWARK, DE USA - Wednesday, July 28, 2004 at 19:06:29 (EDT)

SPITTING JOHN THAT ALWAYS SPIT AND THROW ROCKS AT PEOPLE
NORMAN COOPER <NCOOPER@NUCARMOTORS.COM>
NEWARK, DE USA - Wednesday, July 28, 2004 at 19:00:45 (EDT)

REMEMBER RALPH PRYOR THE WILM. DE TRUMPET PLAYING COP DURING THE 50,S AND 60,S
JEANETTE KEKES <REPJFK@AOL.COM>
TARPON SPRINGS, FL USA - Wednesday, July 28, 2004 at 17:03:59 (EDT)

I worked at Braunsteins, Kennards, and car dealerships.What about car dealerships from the past? I worked for Fernando Pecci at Continental Cars Ltd in the 60's. Also, worked for Joe Libetti owner at Liberty Buick on Penna. Ave. for 8 years in the 1970's. I left in 1977 when gambling was legalezed in New Jersey to obtain a better job. I have resided there ever since. My mother worked at the Wilmington Parking Authority for all of 1960's until her death in the early 70's. Does anyone know Joseph Pankowski? I was married to him for three years in the early 70's. He was a great artist and writer, with a brother who was to be a lawyer when he graduated college. His mother Elenoar Pankowski worked at the Dupont Hotel Golden Ballroom for many years. There were quite a few "gay" clubs back in the day. One was on Tatnall Street, I remember going to a transvestite wedding there. Also, out on Governor Prince Blvd. there was a private club till the wee hours of the morning. We were discoing up a storm back then. No "aids" to worry about either. One of the owners was a hairdresser who had a shop on Union Street at the corner. I lived on that street in the 70's. Also, married to Ed Zieger who lived on Shallcross Ave. and who moved with me to Atlantic City. He returned home in the 1980's to be with his family again. His brother Michael Zieger just died this past fall. So sorry to hear of that, he was the youngest boy in the family. Anyone remember any of these places or people? I remember Adams street before I-95 was built. My mother lived there in the 900 block. We waled to town in those days and we were never worried about being on the streets. I used to love walking along the Brandywine near the hospital. Many other memopries have been jogged into memory reading other messages on this site. Hope it is around a long time. Iris
Iris <ijpennycash47@msn.com>
Atlantic City, NJ USA - Wednesday, July 28, 2004 at 13:11:16 (EDT)

The name of the little Italian restaurant on Union St was Mrs Robino's. Great food
Bob Crawford <buster1973@hotmail.com>
USA - Wednesday, July 28, 2004 at 12:10:07 (EDT)

I was trying to remember the name of the little Italian Restaurant on Union Street in town?. It was named after an Italian woman. My mother used to take me there for macaroni and gravy, and oh my it was wonderful
Gene <AKewlRomeo@aol.com>
Port Penn, DE USA - Wednesday, July 28, 2004 at 11:09:53 (EDT)

I "inherited" an Orange Crate as a piece of furniture in 1961 from a guy who had an apartment on E. 54th Street in Manhattan when I moved into the place after he was called back to Turkey for compulsory military service. He had painted it gray, and I used it as a bookshelf. I had it with me until I married in 1967. My wife made me throw it out soon after, after I had persuaded her to throw out her coffee table that consisted of a painted wooden Con Ed electrical cable spool. "Finding" and "making" furniture from discarded packaging was a big deal for Singles back in those days when everyone was spending all their money in paying the rent and nightclubbing in the Big City.
Bob
Stamford, CT USA - Wednesday, July 28, 2004 at 07:21:50 (EDT)

Orange Crates, sure bring back memories.I was just talking about them to a friend not more than two days before they were mentioned here .I had one in my room as a child,I used mine for a two story doll house. Someone has the same memories at the same time a me-----Kool !!!
K.BURTON <breckslnkid10@yahoo.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Tuesday, July 27, 2004 at 19:54:29 (EDT)

Stumbled upon this site completely by accident...have been sitting here absolutely shocked at all the obscure places I remember from growing up in Bellefonte, but always thought no one else did! Thank you for the comments about Pepper's....I remember that store so well...and the owners. I would never have remembered the name, though. When I was very young, I swear I remember a small grocery store on Brandywine Boulevard, I think where the bakery is now....Was there a large, neon, star shaped sign with the store's name on it? Could be getting this confused with something else. How about Spinning Wheels skating rink (favorite weekend activity), River Road Pool, and the Merchandise Mart....you could hit Strawbridges, Penney's, the Supermarket...what else was in there? And the movie theatre across the street...I think Brook's is there now.
Marie <tmc2@comcast.net>
USA - Tuesday, July 27, 2004 at 19:50:07 (EDT)

Thanks for the info, Bruce! We only lived on Hillcrest Ave. for that one year (1965-1966), so no I didn't know Mrs. Schwartz. I did remember that Mr. Schwartz had magazines along with the candy, but didn't recall there being a soda fountain in there too. Next time I get up to Wilmington, I'm definitely going to be out Bellefonte way (looking for my great-grandparents house) and will check out the location of Schwartzes as well. Thanks again!
Ruth <zavijah@earthlink.net>
USA - Tuesday, July 27, 2004 at 12:02:10 (EDT)

Bob, I believe the song you are trying to think of is "The Little White Cloud That Cried". I had that record, too. In the small world category, I, too, saw Johnny Ray in that nightclub in Greenwich Village; however, I believe it was in the late 50's. DuPont Co. used to run special trips to NY on occasional weekends. For something like $50, we were treated to a RT train ride from Wilm. to NY plus our room (usually shared a room with two girlfriends) at the Governor Clinton Hotel right across from the Pennsylvania station. We went up on Sat. morning and returned Sun. evening. I also remember going to Duffy's Tavern and Jack Dempsey's restaurant. Of course, we did the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. Johnny Ray was a bonus. We just wandered in for a drink in this little place in Greenwich Village. We couldn't believe it when Johnny Ray came out and started singing. Also, saw Sara Vaughn at Birdland. Good memories.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Tuesday, July 27, 2004 at 08:12:46 (EDT)

Pat - Al Alberts and The Four Aces, singing "(It's No) Sin"...first came out on a local Philly record label, but quickly became a national smash hit (via "Bandstand", maybe?) and was scarfed up by a biggie national record company. I played that original local cut of the 45rpm disc so often that it became almost transparent from stylus wear. "Take away the breath of flowers, it would surely be a sin...Take the rain from April showers, it's a sin..... It is no sin to love you, and know you are leaving..." etc., etc. Pat LeVan, you old 9th Warder you, thanks for the Memory! This triggers another memory...of Johnnie Ray. His first big hit was "Cry". What was the name of the song on the B (flip) side, which became a big hit also? Hint: the first line of the flip-side song was "I went walking down by the river..." I saw Johnnie in person twice in NY City about 10 years later, in about 1961, both times in the same smoky little wedge-shaped cellar nightclub in Greenwich Village. First time, he was in the audience at a performance by the comedienne Phyllis Diller. Second time, he himself was performing, big hearing aid and all. What a voice!!!
Bob Wilson <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Stamford, CT USA - Tuesday, July 27, 2004 at 07:16:11 (EDT)

I`ve had a wooden orange since 1950. Makes a great end table by your bed, holds your books you read before going to sleep
mickey pulley
tx USA - Monday, July 26, 2004 at 18:25:30 (EDT)

And - real orange/fruit crates, made out of wood - which made excellent bases for scooters, and the wooden crates (cases) that sodas came in, 24 small bottles or 12 large bottles. And the big tray that the breadman carried, showcasing everything he had on his truck that day.
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Monday, July 26, 2004 at 12:46:02 (EDT)

What ever happened to Glass Milk Bottles, Bread delivered to your door,Wooden crates that groceries were delivered in
Penny <Pen731@aol.com>
Wilmington, de USA - Monday, July 26, 2004 at 11:27:03 (EDT)

I remember the A&P on New Castle Avenue (Now Superfresh) and Bills Market on New Castle Avenue.
Penny <pen731@aol.com>
Wilmington, De USA - Monday, July 26, 2004 at 11:22:45 (EDT)

My husband stopped at Huber`s bakery on his way home from work to get day old bread for hogs and chickens. They filled a large bag with returned bread, donuts, sticky buns but tore everything open just so you could not be reselling it. The man who filled it asked one time what he did with all of it. why we eat what you don`t tare up. From then on only the top ones were torn open. Kids dived into that bag like something special and lots of time there was.
mickey
tx USA - Monday, July 26, 2004 at 11:13:45 (EDT)

Anybody remember Tom's Sub Shop or Lehigh's sub shop? They were both in Newport. How about Nick's sub shop on the DuPont Highway near Minquadale?
Pat
New Castle, DE USA - Sunday, July 25, 2004 at 22:24:03 (EDT)

Ruth, that little store was Schwartz's Soda Fountain. Mr. Schwartz was, as you said, didn't like kids too much, but his wife was a wonderful lady. She had to stop working in the store in the 50's, due to medical problems, so I guess you never knew her. Mr. Schwartz loved the nickels us kids would put in his pinball machine, though - IF HE wasn't playing the machine. The store sold fresh ice cream and fountain sodas, from a small, about 6 stool counter, and he had candy and the daily newspapers and a few magazines and sundry items. The building is still there, between Chestnut St. & Blue Rock Rd., on Haines Ave. (Hillcrest Ave.), but it's been converted into two apartments. I grew up in the neighborhood in the 40's through 60's, and in Bellefonte since then.
Bruce <spyderxl(at)comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Sunday, July 25, 2004 at 16:59:57 (EDT)

Okay, here's something kinda obscure...and since it's from so long ago, I'm not sure that I even remember correctly! 1965-66 we lived on Hillcrest Ave, at the corner of Marsh and Hillcrest. Several blocks up Hillcrest was a small store run by an older man who smoked those large, smelly cigars. I remember that he had candy in there, but he really didn't like kids in the store too much... when you would go in there he would follow you around and go "ah .. ahh. AHH!" if you looked like you were going to touch anything! The cigar smoke was so stinky, though, we rarely went in there. LOL Anyone know what store I'm talking about? My brothers and I looked for it last year, but needless to say, Hillcrest Avenue looks a heck of a lot different than it did in 1965!
Ruth <zavijah@earthlink.net>
USA - Sunday, July 25, 2004 at 15:10:21 (EDT)

My parents used to drive us to the back of Hubers bakery and buy bread hot out of the oven. We'd eat warm bread, plain, on the drive home.
Connie
USA - Sunday, July 25, 2004 at 11:25:28 (EDT)

Huebner's Bakery, 100 S. Union
Lou Meli <anmeli@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, July 25, 2004 at 11:04:51 (EDT)

Does anyone remember when Mulroony's in Elsmere Under the bridge was called O'Brien's? I would love information about it.
Jim
USA - Sunday, July 25, 2004 at 10:41:18 (EDT)

Re: The Old Mill. I remember in the early 50's going to a prom and afterward going to The Old Mill (precisely because teen-agers could be served there). The "Four Aces" were appearing. How fantastic! Anyhoo, having not a clue as to what to order when the waitress appeared, I looked frantically about and spied a cardboard ad for a "Moscow Mule". Naturally, I ordered a "Moscow Mule". Great. Upon arriving home (to my awaiting mother) who asked how my evening was, I replied: "Great". Then, she asked where we went afterward. I told her that we went to the Old MIll fo r some refreshments. My dear mother, being not born yesterday, asked what that might be. I replied: "A Moscow Mule". She then said: "Was that a milkshake?". I mumbled "uh-huh". She was such a great mother. Just let me get out of my gown and go to sleep with my wonderful memories.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port Saint Lucie, FL USA - Saturday, July 24, 2004 at 21:59:16 (EDT)

Wasn't there a place up on Route 1, east of Rt. 202, on the left, down a lane, called "The Old Mill" back in the 1950's? I seem to remember "Screamin' Jay Hawkins" performing regularly there, and that you could buy a beer without being carded, even if you looked only about 16.
Bob Wilson
Stamford, CT USA - Friday, July 23, 2004 at 21:51:33 (EDT)

If no one has weighed in yet, the Brandywine Club on Route 1 and Route 202 was formerly know as the Continental Safari. They kept the wild leopard skin wall paper in the large room for quite some time. When it was the Brandywine Club in the ‘70s nationally know acts like Joe Jackson , The Tubes, and a whole lot more would play there. I think the booking of the acts was done by one of the large Philly booking agencies
Phil Hutchison <hutchipr@dadebehring.com>
Newark, DE USA - Friday, July 23, 2004 at 14:50:42 (EDT)

The roller rink on Governor Printz. Ice-skating down by Governor Printz.
Linda castelow <lindac2353@yahoo.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, July 22, 2004 at 09:23:07 (EDT)

any one remember the wilmington high school dance band , bill pryor and the tormentors ? they played a lot around the city in the mid. 50,s a few went on to play in famous rock groups. and remember the children doctor ? the famous dr. wagner. some times he would be sick himself ,but always went about his rounds , caring for the sick kids in.wilm. . repjfk@aol.com
jeanette kekes <repjfk@aol.com>
tarpon springs, fl USA - Tuesday, July 20, 2004 at 17:35:03 (EDT)

Anyone remember Cutsler's Pharmacy? Believe the gentleman's first name was Homer - anyway it was on Marsh Road just down from Bill Gailey's Esso (formerly Baker Bros.) and Silvercroft Market was on the NW corner of Marsh & Silverside Road; owners were Harry & Edith Hackman.
butch schilling <fschilling@isacclaims.com>
mount pleasant, sc USA - Tuesday, July 20, 2004 at 12:19:02 (EDT)

I certainly remember Peppers, I used to stop there every morning on the way to school for candy and other goodies. Mr. & Mrs. Pepper were the nicest people. Do you remember when the Duncan yo-yo man would be there sometimes in the summer, outside, doing all kinds of tricks with his various Duncan yo-yos?
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Monday, July 19, 2004 at 20:28:00 (EDT)

Does anyone remember "Peppers" on Brandywine Blvd. in Bellefonte. Mr. and Mrs. pepper and their daughters Pauline and Janice ran it. They had everything from Ice cream to the poster paper for the many, many "projects" we did at Mt. Pleasant High. Haven't seen it mentioned.
Marian Knowles <marian.knowles@astrazeneca.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Monday, July 19, 2004 at 15:47:48 (EDT)

Another missing drugstore is the Edgemoor Drug Store at Gov. Printz Blvd and Stuyvesant Drive.
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, Ca USA - Sunday, July 18, 2004 at 23:43:28 (EDT)

I was just looking at the listing for drugstores and have a couple to add - Chadwick's at Vandever Ave. & Market and Starr's at 24th & Market.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Sunday, July 18, 2004 at 12:42:31 (EDT)

1st State was at the top of a hill in back of the Merchandise Mart. Delaware Olds is where I bought my first car, a second hand Chevy. The times, they are 'a changing.
Connie
USA - Sunday, July 18, 2004 at 12:10:58 (EDT)

Yep, First State is still there; it burned down in the early 60's and was rebuilt. Still busy, as far as I know. Now, I'm not talking about Matusoff's (sp?)Bowling Alley, which was on the Gov. Printz, next to the Highway Inn, that's been gone since the early 50's. Did you know that Delaware Olds is now gone? Torn down early this year for a bank (PNC, from what I hear) computer center.
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Saturday, July 17, 2004 at 15:05:09 (EDT)

Is the First State Bowling Alley still there?!? Didn't they used to have televised professional bowling tournaments there? I remember how small it was.
Connie
USA - Saturday, July 17, 2004 at 14:59:20 (EDT)

Hi Connie, The original Riverside Hospital was the old Seller's Estate main house, which was just behind the First State Bowling Alley, in the middle of Clifton Park Apts. The apartments were built on some of the land of the old estate. The rest of the estate, from across from Junie's Soda Fountain to the Phila. Pike is still parkland (Sellers Park). Some of the original out-buildings from the estate still stand, behind the bowling alley.
Bruce <spyderxl(at)comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Saturday, July 17, 2004 at 11:09:56 (EDT)

Hi All. Think this site is great. Love all of the old memories about old Wilmington. I'm especially interested in the memories that folks about the N. Wilmington suburbs in the 70's. I grew up in Northminster, off of Naamans Rd. Went to Channin Elementary and Concord High. My memories from that time: Hobbi Art, Farrell's up in Granite Run Mall for ice cream, Pomeroy's, Al Mart. Remember the Wall to Wall Sound in the middle of Concord Pike? Basco, Dom Romano's. Pappy's on Concord Pike was a huge treat in my family, youngest of five kids which relegated me to the 'way back', rear facing set in the station wagon. Anyone remember the steel structure of the apartment building in Cedar Tree Apartments on Naamans that sat unfinished for years (eventually was torn down)? Walking to Channin school through the 'Del Vets' neighborhood. Didn't dare take a shortcut through old man Pennington's farm - all kinds of tall tales about what he would do to trespassers. Wonderland in the F&N shopping center, Jeremiah's on Philly Pike. Worked in the Harvest House in Concord Mall, next to Woolworth's. If any of you ever ate there, my condolences. Remember Record Museum in the Concord Mall?
Doug M <phishphan100@yahoo.com>
Middletown, DE USA - Friday, July 16, 2004 at 09:59:08 (EDT)

Those young guys in suits hanging out at lunch time at 9th and Market were probably fledgling engineers and accountants for either Hercules Powder Company or Atlas Powder, both of which had their HQ in the old Delaware Trust Co. office building back in the early 1950's. I was at Udel with many of them back then.
Bob
Stamford, CT USA - Thursday, July 15, 2004 at 22:13:55 (EDT)

Yes - Rosenbaums sounds right. Do you recall what the news stand looked like? I think it was not too long ago when they made someone stop using that site for one. It may have been the same guy.
Connie
USA - Thursday, July 15, 2004 at 16:41:58 (EDT)

Connie, I believe that toy store was Rosenbaum's at 9th & Market, and I do remember that newspaper/magazine stand. Also, Marian, I remember those "suits" at 9th and Market. We used to walk from the DuPont Bldg. to WDG on our lunch hour in the 50's. In those days, the nylons were 3 pairs for $1.00. That was before pantyhose.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Thursday, July 15, 2004 at 16:23:42 (EDT)

Does anyone remember the makeshift magazine stand that was at the trolley/bus stop at Ninth and Market in front of Rosenbergs toy store?
Connie
USA - Thursday, July 15, 2004 at 11:28:57 (EDT)

I have never seen anyone mention that line of fellows in business suits standing in front of the old Delaware Trust -Hercules Tower building at 9th and Market Streets at lunchtime everyday. It was the early 60's. They were there to watch the girls go by. On a windy day there would be twice as many guys there to watch the girl's skits blow up. I worked at Hercules and we thought nothing of it as we made our way to the Dry Good to buy .60 cent "nylons."
Marian Knowles
Wilmington, DE USA - Thursday, July 15, 2004 at 11:01:00 (EDT)

When Hurricane Hazel hit Newark back in October, 1954, I was sitting on the front porch of the Delt House in Newark, with a bunch of others, enjoying the show on South College Avenue. A large power line had snapped and fallen, and was sparking like hell on the road pavement just behind Mitchell Hall. That was certainly not as exciting as Bill Fisher swinging in a tree two blocks north. I can't remember exactly when it was, but the only other event of that scale that I can remember in Newark was the evening that the Air National Guard jet plane plunged into the Newark Lumber Company on East Main Street, setting up a huge conflagration. I think that this might have been in 1955.
Bob
Stamford, CT USA - Thursday, July 15, 2004 at 07:18:26 (EDT)

Ahhh, Hurricane Hazel; I remember her well-- It was mid-October 1954, and I, a freshman at the University of Delaware, was in the top of a large tree outside of Brown Hall on the campus, swinging baaaaadk and foorrrth in the wind. (Looking back on things, that wassn't a real bright thing to be doing in a hurricane of that magnitude-- I could have been seriously KILLED!) Ahhh, youth.
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, Ca USA - Thursday, July 15, 2004 at 00:49:40 (EDT)

With this torrential downpour here tonight..it got me thinking back to some of the worst storms we have had in the past.the one I remember most was the blizzard of 77..Route 13 in New Castle was impassable for days..Hurricane Hazel..1961????...Hurricane David in 75...Agnes..and one whose name I dont remember from the late 60's
Bob <Bordwlkbobb@aol.com>
USA - Wednesday, July 14, 2004 at 21:24:38 (EDT)

In reply to the question from Sandy Hibbs, my Dad, Willard S. Stewart, was a well-known photographer in Wilmington from 1945 to 2003. He passed away in 2003, and his estate is currently disposing of nearly 250,000 negatives from former customers. If you (or anyone else) contact the studio, you can see if they have any negatives from your family. The phone number is 302.655.9957.
Doug Stewart <doug@orange42.com>
Denver, CO USA - Wednesday, July 14, 2004 at 13:33:30 (EDT)

I remember the Riverside hospital. Wasn't it near Clifton Park Apartments?
Connie
USA - Tuesday, July 13, 2004 at 15:32:16 (EDT)

Does anybody remember Gross`s private hospital near 8th on West St ? My youngest son was born there in 47.Also Dr. Raymond Rickards who had an office on Van Buren. Also the Riverside homeopathic hospital east of Phil. Pike ?
charlotte pulley <mickey710@webtv.net>
TX USA - Tuesday, July 13, 2004 at 10:52:14 (EDT)

Sorry got the street wrong Schwarts store was on Hanes Ave
kathi
USA - Tuesday, July 13, 2004 at 10:34:35 (EDT)

Mike Snyder: At last... somebody who remembers alligators at Christy's Restaurant (it was on the southWEST corner of US202 and US1. There was a round brick "pit" in the center of the area where you entered the restaurant. Thanks, Mike, for restoring the faith in my own memory. Bob Wilson and I discussed the reptiles a while back in the archives of this forum, but he didn't remember them and thought they might have been part of the menu.
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Monday, July 12, 2004 at 23:41:39 (EDT)

Schwartzs Store on brandywine Blvd Wooden Floors Penny Candy Icecream Counter Mr Schwarz Cigars Stuck in the walls Barells of chips and Prezels
kathi
USA - Monday, July 12, 2004 at 23:12:30 (EDT)

Schwartzs Store on brandywine Blvd Wooden Floors Penny Candy Icecream Counter Mr Schwarz Cigars Stuck in the walls Barells of chips and Prezels
kathi
USA - Monday, July 12, 2004 at 23:12:07 (EDT)

Dont forget lake Como
kathi
USA - Monday, July 12, 2004 at 22:53:47 (EDT)

Browns Pharmacy on Philadelphia Pike How about Pecos
kathi <oceanbreeze1919@aol.com>
newark, de USA - Monday, July 12, 2004 at 22:47:49 (EDT)

Rich Brother Drug store on Delaware Ave a couple door east of the Warner.
Mike Snyder <kmsins@msn.com>
Newtown, Ct USA - Monday, July 12, 2004 at 22:25:14 (EDT)

The bus station was @11th & West St. I lived just down the street @ 1113 West St. The Short Line use to go from there but the buses were not garaged there. We would take the Short Line to Christies Corner to visit my aunt in Chadds Ford. There was a resturant there on the south east corner. I don't remember the name but it had a large pond as soon as you entered & I seem to remember an small alligator. Somtimes we changed busses there to go onto Downingtown.
Mike Snyder <kmsins@msn.com>
Newtown, Ct USA - Monday, July 12, 2004 at 22:17:18 (EDT)

I found a photo of my grandmother. The place where she got it taken at the Wilmington Photo Co. at 407 1/2 Market St. If anyone has any info about how I could get some information let me know. Thanks
Sandy Hibbs <chargeit2him@yahoo.com>
pa USA - Sunday, July 11, 2004 at 14:31:57 (EDT)

That's correct, Bob. It is/was known by a few different names, including one I haven't seen mentioned recently: Robinson's Tea House (or something like that). In recent years, it's only been open for special occasions or rentals. Don't really know what the story is; but it's not open regular hours, and hasn't been for years. It kinda looks lost and rundown now, but then some special event will come along, and it will be all cleaned up and lit up for a day or two, then back to it's quiet darkness.
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Friday, July 09, 2004 at 10:33:43 (EDT)

Was Naaman's Tea House the same as Naaman's Tavern in Claymont, at the NW corner of Naaman's Road and the Philly Pike, almost on the PA border? My parents really liked that place for Sunday dinner. It was up there with the Chadd's Ford Tavern, Van's on 11th Street, and Christy's on 202 re: their favorites.
Bob W. <wilso127@yahoo.com>
USA - Friday, July 09, 2004 at 07:51:45 (EDT)

I saw this in the local paper and want to pass it on. Wilmington High Class of '54 The Wilmington High School Class of 1954 will be holding their 50 year reunion on Friday, Oct. 29, 2004 at The Terrance Ballroom in the Porky Oliver Golf Course from 6:30-11:30 PM. Cost is $45 per person. The evening includes dinner, dancing and a cash bar. Letters will be mailed to the addresses on record. We are missing addresses for some members of the class. If you know the whereabouts of any class member or would like more information, please contact Betty Mousley at (302) 836-0887 or Barbara Monigle at (302) 998-3183.
Bill <mcgonig3@aol.com>
Townsend, DE USA - Wednesday, July 07, 2004 at 11:10:35 (EDT)

Couple of things. Restaurants - The Naaman's Tea House. My Dad took us there often for Sunday dinner. It was pretty classy at the time (at least I thought it was when I was a kid). The Brandywine Club - Went there when I was about 25. My husband played drums in the Guy Perry Band and the muscians union had a party there. Harry James band played and they were great. Had a really good time.
Dot Becker <dorothy.m.becker@dupont-dow.com>
new castle, de USA - Wednesday, July 07, 2004 at 08:42:44 (EDT)

See someone mentioned the Brandywine Club...I remember seeing Elvis impersonator "Little El" there with my mother who was a huge fan of The King. The old BC sign was still there among the weeds and debris last time I drove by the site up there a few months ago.
Bob <Bordwlkbobb@aol.com>
USA - Tuesday, July 06, 2004 at 22:59:55 (EDT)

Ah yes, it was the Gaiety Theatre down on East Baltimore Street. Then what the heck was the name of the burleycue theatre on the boardwalk in Atlantic City? By the way, I spent last week at Sage Harbor on Lung Island. What a great place to be! Even saw a minor celeb or two wandering around on Main Street. (Tony Roberts, George Stephanapoulos).
Bob of Stamford <wilso127@yahoo.com>
USA - Tuesday, July 06, 2004 at 21:13:55 (EDT)

About the Brandywine Club...but first a question...was it, possibly, on the left hand side of Rt. 1 heading south...and also up quite a steep hill? And are we talking about the early to mid 60's? If all of the above it correct I know exactly the place you are talking about and I was I'm happy to say a member. The place I am thinking about had a swimming pool and I believe riding horses and an attractive dining room. It didn't, however, stay in business very long unfortunately. But it was, as they say, fun while it lasted. Oh yes, I believe they also had a small area for skiing...And I had forgotten all about that place until Harry refreshed my memory. I sure hope we're talking about the same place!
Patricia
Key Biscayne, FL USA - Tuesday, July 06, 2004 at 18:32:38 (EDT)

And yes, I remember the brandywine Club, but I was never in there. It was near, or a part of, the Brandywine Theater In The Round (another place I was never a visitor to), wasn't it?
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Tuesday, July 06, 2004 at 10:14:30 (EDT)

Hi Harry, I believe Christie's Corner was known by many names over the years, but I don't remember it being called Birmingham Corner (which isn't to mean it wasn't, just not in my day). As noted in my response to Patricia, the ORIGINAL Farmer In The Dell was on 202, north of Rte. 1, across the street and down the hill from where Stoltzfus Trailer and boat place is now. There were, later, many more Farmer In The Dell restaurants built, one being the one on Naaman's Road, one in Newark, on Cleveland Ave., I believe, and others. I think this rapid expansion had something to do with the demise of Farmer In The Dell. No matter how many they had, the original was the best of all of them. By the way, does anyone remember the name of the diner that was directly opposite Stoltzfus on rte. 202? It had many owners, and was there through many eras, until maybe 15 years ago, or so. I can't remember any of the names it was. This diner was a 24 hour diner, and was an alternative after the movie at the 202 Drive-In was over, to the Birmingham, which was always packed!
Bruce <spyder(at)comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Tuesday, July 06, 2004 at 10:11:52 (EDT)

Hello to everyone!! I know that I am way behind with an 'update' to this site - been very busy.

I see that several eating places have been mentioned - like 'The Farmer-n'-Dell', etc. See the restaurants listed by clicking here.

I think that the intersection of US Rts 1/202 was/is called 'Birmingham Corner' because of the once Bermingham Diner. There also was a 'Farmer-n'-Dell' near Naamans and Marsh Roads in the '70's but it was destroyed by a fire. And, does anyone remember the 'Brandywine Club' on US Rt 1 just down from Rt 202??

Update soon - I promise...
Harry <webmaster@oldwilmington.net>
July 06, 2004 at 9:20:00 (EDT)

I'm looking for info on Mike "Decesare" originally from Wilmington. Maybe 70 at this point. In his youth a 'lightweight' boxer, has a son and a daughter, Michelle, he worked at Freihofer (Flystopper) Baking and lived in Linwood PA in early 1960's. Any thoughts? Thanks. Ray
Ray Hathaway <berkhath@juno.com>
Drexel Hill, PA USA - Monday, July 05, 2004 at 11:47:54 (EDT)

Kellys Hamburgers 20cents and Lehmans Ice Cream both on Gov Printz Blvd,Monterey Hdwe on Phila Pike,the Quanset Hut look Gaylords on Miller Rd before it burnt down,Riding bikes to River Road School,working at Almart Concord Mall,also Sharpies Sub Shop and Joels Drug Store in High School, Going to Brandywine split sessions in 1969 in the afternoon as my school(Concord) was not finished being built,eating at The Acropolis Diner every week with my parents on Concord Pike,eating at Ginos beside Widener 202,the old Merchandise mart at Edgemoor with all the lamp poles that looked like Xmas Trees,Santa in his house next to the Strawbridges there,Brandywine Blvd with the Brandywine News Stand,Lipshultz Pharmacy,The Slot Car shop,JIm Barber Shop,Sams,Schaeffers Supermarket,stopping At Di Camillas after school,Going to see the fireworks at Claymont High Schools football field every year before the addition was added,and going to Green Street School a few years! Lots of Wilmington good memories!
James B de Ford <belvumanor@yahoo.com>
wilmington, de USA - Sunday, July 04, 2004 at 20:59:01 (EDT)

Hey Bruce, I found the Bridgeville scrapple Co`s order blanks. Haven`t checked on shipping costs yet but scrapple is more than half the price of habbersetts. from Folcroft, Pa. They are right about the wooder in the subs. I think Philly has the same wooder as Delaware as the subs I got from there were GOOD. Hello to Patricia from Fla. I`m staying in for Firework on TV. I`m challengeing you all again for the oldest on this list, 86 next Sat. and by the way my hubby`s name was Bruce. Check this site every day, love it. My aunt used to take us kids to the B & O station on delaware & DuPont to watch trains come in. We would put a penny on the rail to see what would happen to it My father at one time drove truck for Huber`s Sunbeam bread
mickey pulley <michey710@webtv.net>
livinston tx, USA - Sunday, July 04, 2004 at 14:42:40 (EDT)

Something else about PENNY HILL SUBS - a guy who worked there said the proprietor used only the best grade of cold cuts.
Connie
USA - Sunday, July 04, 2004 at 09:47:47 (EDT)

Patricia, the restaurant you're thinking of was the original "Farmer In The Dell", about a mile North of Christie's Corner (or was it Christy's?) (intersection of Rte. 1 & Rte. 202). and, at Christie's, remember the Birmingham Grille? Pat LV, another thing about Penny Hill subs, besides the great rolls, was the fact that they offered hard or soft rolls with their subs. Del Campo, Amoroso, Buono, all made great rolls. Happy 4th to all!!
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Sunday, July 04, 2004 at 09:37:19 (EDT)

Speaking of restaurants, I don't recall the name of the place, but it was out Rt. 202, perhaps a little into PA. and they had great roast beef sandwiches plus plus. But the unique and fun thing about the place...it was also very casual...they had big barrels of popcorn, and peanuts in the shell, for free no less. So while you waited for your food you munched on the popcorn and peanuts. I used to take my kids there a few times a month. This was back in the early 60's. As for subs, my favorit was Claymont Subs on Philadelphia Pike. Every time I visit family in Wilmington I bring a supply back to Florida with me. Happy 4th of July to all...especially MIckey
Patricia
Key Biscayne, FL USA - Saturday, July 03, 2004 at 22:26:10 (EDT)

Continuing the Sub thread..I have ate subs..or whatever they happen to call them in cities from East to West..Kansas City had the worst I ever had...but they kill us with their wonderful BBQ..Also ate versions in Atlanta..Miami..Portland Ore...and Dallas..all were aweful...I say its the oil..some say the rolls...all I know is the Delaware Valley makes the best subs..hoagies or whatever in my opinion
Bob <Bordwlkbobb@aol.com>
USA - Saturday, July 03, 2004 at 21:17:52 (EDT)

I agree, Bill, I keep falling asleep there - that's why I don't know nothing!!
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Saturday, July 03, 2004 at 19:59:52 (EDT)

Gene, that was Jay Hurley's Cafe Continental Lounge, in Bowlarama bowling alley.
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Saturday, July 03, 2004 at 19:59:01 (EDT)

Back to the subs - in our travels around the country, we came upon a guy in North Carolina who was trying to duplicate Wilmington submarine sandwiches. He thought he had it perfected, but something just wasn't right. After much thought and tasting, he realized it was the rolls. He had to import them from Wilmington (probably DelCampo's) because the local ones just weren't right. The reason? The water! The local ones just weren't made with good old Wilmington "wooter". I loved that story.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Saturday, July 03, 2004 at 19:57:26 (EDT)

Anyone remember the club that was in the bowling alley in New Castle around 76?
Gene <AKewlRomeo@aol.com>
Bear, Del USA - Saturday, July 03, 2004 at 19:23:00 (EDT)

Can't learn much there... it's too quiet, Bruce!
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Saturday, July 03, 2004 at 19:00:17 (EDT)

Bob, there was also a Gaiety Theater on E. Baltimore St. That was the only place of it's type there, where live shows were onstage, day and night. As I remember it, the rest of the places on E. Baltimore St. were all bars and adult bookstores. At the time, we weren't old enough to drink, so couldn't go into the bars, but we could go into the Gaiety. I never went to AC, don't know what was there. Bill, I guess old men are relegated to the library to learn about life. :)
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Saturday, July 03, 2004 at 18:50:57 (EDT)

Bob, the burning question remains: Where does an OLD man go to learn about life????
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Saturday, July 03, 2004 at 14:25:31 (EDT)

Ahh yes, the TROC in Philly, anywhere on East Baltimore Street, the Gaiety in AC....all great places for a young man to learn about life!
Bob
Stamford, CT USA - Saturday, July 03, 2004 at 11:01:51 (EDT)

re B & O RR - someone kindly referred me to a website with a picture of that station - I believe what I just mentioned in my previous note must have been in the B & O waiting room. I remembered the station after seeing the picture.
Connie
USA - Saturday, July 03, 2004 at 08:48:20 (EDT)

re
Connie
USA - Saturday, July 03, 2004 at 08:46:24 (EDT)

I think the B & O Station at Delaware Avenue and DuPont was where we caught the train to go to Lenape Park for my father's company picnic. From what I remember, it was above the road and a long narrow enclosed area with typical railroad station benches.
Connie
USA - Friday, July 02, 2004 at 10:06:50 (EDT)

Larry I remember those "river of birds". I think I'll call my brother in Red Lion and see if they are still there. Hard to believe they would be with all the "clutter" that must be in their flight path now. That was truly a remarkable thing and I think I knew that evan as a child because I would stop and watch them for hours.
m rhodes
USA - Thursday, July 01, 2004 at 23:05:18 (EDT)

I grew up in what was known as 'The Forty Acres'. I graduated from Wilmington High School in 1958. I attended the old North Baptist Church when it was still on Lincoln Street, off of Delaware Ave. We lived a block away. Today, I live in Ottawa, Illinois, and dearly missed Scrapple AND Taylor Ham!! My husband is a truck driver and he travels all over the USA. He found RAPA Scrapple at Super Walmart in Clearfiend, Pa., and Taylor Ham in a Giant Grocery Store in Carlisle, Pa., so we get stocked up whenever he is able to have a load delivering that way. Thank God for his refrigerator in the truck! Anyone have any memories of 'George' who drove for Delaware Coach Company for many years and continued to drive for'Dart' when they took over the company? Dad use to tell about meeting all these school kids who many of which kept in touch with him, long after they were out of school, often bringing their own children to 'meet' George when they were starting school. The subs, cheese steak sandwiches, crabs, all left such very nice memories. This website is awesome!! Anyone caring to reply is welcome!
Mary K Dunlop Kennedy-Schauer <mk.kennedy@sbcglobal.net>
Ottawa, Il. USA - Thursday, July 01, 2004 at 20:13:02 (EDT)

Both the B&O and the Pennsy railroads ran trains to Delaware Park. I think they started in Philly but you would have to get them at the old B&O station at Delaware Ave and Dupont or at Pennsy station (still in use). The B&O track ran behind the grandstand and was an actual little station. You walked down steps and entered through a tunnel to the track. The Pennsy RR built a spur from their mainline track into the track which arrived at the north end of the grandstand. Thsi still ran on Sundays into the '70's.
Joe O'Neill <xcjoe@comcast.net>
USA - Wednesday, June 30, 2004 at 23:48:08 (EDT)

Hey Bill, there you go!! Hope the memories are good ones. :)
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Wednesday, June 30, 2004 at 22:17:19 (EDT)

Hey Bruce, you know how they say you never forget your first love, well thats where mine lived, the address was 41 Ivy Rd.
Bill <wchamerica@aol.com>
Ky USA - Wednesday, June 30, 2004 at 20:06:34 (EDT)

The mill store was one of our favorite places. In fact, I was there at least once before I left DE in 1978.
Connie
USA - Wednesday, June 30, 2004 at 15:38:35 (EDT)

Connie, I remember getting off the train at Delaware Park, but don't remember where we caught it. My Mother and her cousin would take us kids down there in the late 40's early 50's for the day. As for the houses at Bancroft Mills, they were torn down years ago in order to build condos on the water. That was back behind Delaware Art Museum somewhere. Was only back there once or twice to the mill store.
DOT BECKER <DOROTHY.M.BECKER@DUPONT-DOW.COM>
NEW CASTLE, DE USA - Wednesday, June 30, 2004 at 14:54:19 (EDT)

Connie, I remember getting off the train at Delaware Park, but don't remember where we caught it. My Mother and her cousin would take us kids down there in the late 40's early 50's for the day. As for the houses at Bancroft Mills, they were torn down years ago in order to build condos on the water. That was back behind Delaware Art Museum somewhere. Was only back there once or twice to the mill store. Dot
DOT BECKER <DOROTHY.M.BECKER@DUPONT-DOW.COM>
NEW CASTLE, DE USA - Wednesday, June 30, 2004 at 14:53:37 (EDT)

Connie, I believe the Delaware Park RR station is still there, but I forget whether it was B&O or Pennsylvania RR that used to stop there back in the 40's and 50's. I used to work at Bancroft in the early 60's, and remember the company houses on Rockford Rd, between the Mill Store and the Rockford entrance to the plant. They were row houses on both sides of the street, with a parking area in the middle of the road, and on a street behind Rockford Rd. (Ivy Rd., I think). The Mill Store sold roll ends and overage, lots of material avaiable there, at good prices. Jos. Bancroft & Sons Co. had two plant entrances, Rockford and Kentmere; I used to enter thru the Kentmere entrance. I haven't been down Rockford Rd. for years, but would assume that the store and the row houses are long gone, and condos probably built there now.
Bruce <spyderxl(at)comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Wednesday, June 30, 2004 at 14:49:02 (EDT)

Does anyone remember - 1. Where did the train to Delaware Park Racetrack (1940s & maybe '50s) come from? 2. In the 50s & 60s there was a company town for Bancroft Cotton Mills workers. I remember white frame row houses with livingrooms about 10' x 10'. Are they still there or does anyone remember them?
Connie
USA - Wednesday, June 30, 2004 at 10:30:22 (EDT)

Bruce - you're right on the money about steak sandwiches. As you said before, Janns Steak House had the best I've ever tasted; but Penny Hill Deli steak sandwiches were certainly on a par with theirs.
Connie
USA - Wednesday, June 30, 2004 at 09:47:33 (EDT)

That's right Connie - SUBS are made in Wilmington, Hoagies come from that place farther north: Philthadelphia. That's where they have the famous steaks, which AREN'T chopped, they are just minute steaks out of the freezer and thrown on the grille. What kind of steak is that? And Cheez Whiz on top of it. YUCK!! Give me a Wilmington steak sandwich anytime, with real cheese, over a Philthy steak.
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Tuesday, June 29, 2004 at 22:16:29 (EDT)

Mickey - I've drive 100 miles round trip for a Delaware sub. If you're crazy for doing what it takes to obtain good food, then so am I!
Connie
USA - Tuesday, June 29, 2004 at 09:23:33 (EDT)

Hey Mickey, did you know that Habbersett's Scrapple is made by the Rapa Scrapple plant in Bridgeville, DE? Check out this link: http://www.rapascrapple.com/about.html Maybe you should compare shipping costs between the two companies, I checked - awhile ago - to send some to a relative in Fla., and found that Rapa was much cheaper to ship than Habbersett (and it's the same scrapple). Habbersett is the older company, but they don't like to admit that they haven't made their own scrapple for many years.
Bruce <spyderxl(at)comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 14:42:01 (EDT)

Larry, Amen to Di Nardo's and it's a shame they're gone. I tried Feby's Fishery a couple of years ago during my last visit to Wilmington and the crabs were decent but there was something about the atmosphere at Di Nardo's that was great. Maybe it was Otis and the rest of the staff but the crabs were great and I miss it.
butch schilling <fschilling@isacclaims.com>
Mount Pleasant, SC USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 12:51:09 (EDT)

Out here in Texas I`m not without my scrapple. I have it shipped to me from Habberstets in Pa.overnite shipping, $7 a pkg includes shipping cost . I also get subs from The Taste of Philly for $25 . Call me crazy ????????
mickey pulley <mickey710@webtv.net>
Livingston, TX USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 11:55:12 (EDT)

How could someone mention food in Delaware and not mention Cassapulla's subs. Other places I liked over the years was..the old Crab Shack on Rt 13...Mrs Rubino s on Union Street...Constantino's in town..and the place up on 202 near the PA line that had the great Italian buffet on Sunday nights back in the late 70's..The name escapes me..but man oh man they made some great Lasagne and terrific Gnocchi and meatballs...also Lynnhaven Inn across from the airport.the old Port Penn Inn...Glasgow Arms..and crab cakes at Kelleys down near St George's...Only thing I could not find in Delaware was good biscuits and gravy..had to cross the Md line for those lol.
Bob <Bordwlkbobb@aol.com>
Newport, DE USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 08:58:45 (EDT)

Scrapple... don't forget scrapple!!! Some years ago I was in a large supermarket out here in the L. A. area and ran across some CANNED scrapple. I didn't buy it, figuring that it had to be just plain lousy. The only way to get scrapple is in the bulk rectangular block, so you can just slice off a hunk, pop it in the skillet and enjoy!!
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 02:48:09 (EDT)

OK, Wilmingtonians, I guess we don't remember any recipes; however, we do seem to remember special foods. My special memories include: PennyHill donuts, Remedio pizzas (just read in the obituaries where Mrs. Remedio passed away) and subs from Penny Hill sub shop.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Sunday, June 27, 2004 at 20:47:26 (EDT)

City of Port Saint Lucie Port Saint Lucie Port St Lucie Pt Saint Lucie
port saint lucie <reunion4@botn.zzn.com>
port saint lucie, fl USA - Sunday, June 27, 2004 at 18:25:59 (EDT)

Yep- visited Baltimore Street a few times while I was at Fort Meade in the service of Uncle Sam.
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Sunday, June 27, 2004 at 02:48:54 (EDT)

Did you ever go to East Baltimore Street in Baltimore? That was burlesque, and more......
Bruce <spyderxl(at)comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Saturday, June 26, 2004 at 21:25:25 (EDT)

Speaking of going to Philly to the "theater", a bunch of guys from my high school class at Mt. Pleasant used to love to go up to the TROC Theater (burlesque!) at 10th & Arch to be "titillated" by the exotic dancers, etc. I only went for the great comedy, though- :^) ... some of the best one-liners in the business!!
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Saturday, June 26, 2004 at 20:22:21 (EDT)

Favorite Wilmington foods: Dinardo's crabs, Thomas J. Trotter's soft pretzels, Dinardo's crabs, Delamore Dairy's milkshakes, DiNardo's crabs, steak snadwiches, Dinardo's crabs.
Larry Roszkowiak <lroszkowiak@its.ucsf.edu>
San Francisco, CA USA - Friday, June 25, 2004 at 15:08:54 (EDT)

Used to love to go up to the Earl Theatre in Philly to see a movie and stage show. Saw the Benny goodman band and also Abbott & Costello there between runs of the feature movies.
Bud <bu49@poolesite.com>
WIlmington, DE USA - Friday, June 25, 2004 at 08:27:03 (EDT)

Does anyone remember the "old" guy with the sandwich tray who used to board the Pennsy trains at the old Market Street station (where the "Chinese Wall" once was) and ride on them out through 30th Street to the North Philly station, get off, then get on the next southbound train? I can here him now, singing out "SANGWIDGES! Sangwidges!" I think I bought one once on the way to Shibe Park. It was two pieces of bread with a single slice of cheese in between. If you were hungry, it tasted OK. I wonder if I had been going to Shibe to see the Phillies, or the A's? That was back in the days when the colorless Byrum Saam was the announcer for the colorless (except for Eddie Joost) 1950 A's.
Bob Wilson <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Stamford, CT USA - Thursday, June 24, 2004 at 22:51:33 (EDT)

Or,Pat: Jann's Steaks, Jimmy Johns Hot Dogs, Lehmann's soft ice Cream, Lynnthwaite's Ice Cream. Not recipes, I know, but food items that come to mind that were only available in this area. There's lots more, too. :) Hope Harry doesn't delete this message ~~
Bruce <spyderxl(at)comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Thursday, June 24, 2004 at 21:52:41 (EDT)

To: PA LeVan the first thing I think of when anyone mentions famous food from Wilmington is the Deer Park Hot Dog. If you had that recipie you could make a fortune. They make something similar now at a couple of locations around town, but it's inconsistant and never quite hits the mark. That really brings back memories, and I eat to live.
Wayne <Twntydasys@aol.com>
USA - Thursday, June 24, 2004 at 20:21:12 (EDT)

I took the train to Philly often. Ate at Horn and Hardart one time. I stuck a fork into my hotdog and it shrunk to 1/4 its original size and then found a worm in my apple sauce. We took the Wilson Line to Chester on our 9th grade class trip from Warner Jr. High School. I still remember the school song!
Connie
USA - Thursday, June 24, 2004 at 17:42:57 (EDT)

I guess that is how I got to the amusment park in NJ I went there with friends on a DuPonts holiday in the upper 30`s but DO remember riding the Wilson Line to Philly in the early 30`s to view Gimbel`s and Wanamakers` christmas windows and store setups and eating at Horn an Hadart cafateria. Big thing for a kid
mickey pulley
livingston, TX USA - Thursday, June 24, 2004 at 11:13:55 (EDT)

Does anyone remember riding the Wilson Line over to Riverview Beach amusement park in New Jersey? My parents took me there as a small child and as soon as we crossed the DE/NJ line in the river they could use the slot machines. They'd play for nickles and win enough to put me on the rides at the park.
Connie
USA - Thursday, June 24, 2004 at 09:40:33 (EDT)

So THAT's what Lenape Park used to look like!
Doug & Sherry <deweaver76@sbcglobal.net>
Detroit, MI USA - Wednesday, June 23, 2004 at 19:26:20 (EDT)

OK, all you old Wilmingtonians, I need your help. Does anyone have any recipes or food thoughts that are especially dear to your hearts and memories? Put on your thinking caps and come up with some, please, and pass them on. Thanks.
Pa LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Tuesday, June 22, 2004 at 21:47:43 (EDT)

Does anyone remember Old Windybush Road in the 40s? In addition to my family there were the Eberts, Warners, Schillys, Willetts & Olsons. The Indian Rock was located just north of Dribble Creek.
butch schilling <fschilling@isacclaims.com>
mount pleasant, sc USA - Tuesday, June 22, 2004 at 09:39:25 (EDT)

Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Saturday, June 19, 2004 at 21:53:06 (EDT)

I came into Wilmington a few times on Amtrak in the early 80`s. The Greyhound bus station was cattycornered across from the train station
mickey pulley
Tx USA - Saturday, June 19, 2004 at 18:59:08 (EDT)

HI ANY ONE OUT THERE FROM THE CLASS OF 1954 AT BROWN VOC?
DAVE CAUFFMAN <CAUFFMANDS@AOL.COM>
HOCKESSIN, DE USA - Friday, June 18, 2004 at 16:53:34 (EDT)

Do large flights of migrating birds still pass over Wilmington each Autumn? In the 1950s, long, wide rivers of birds would fly south over Wilmington. At times the flocks would be so large they would take days to pass. Does this phenomenon still occur?
Larry Roszkowiak <lroszkowiak@its.ucsf.edu>
San Francisco, , CA USA - Friday, June 18, 2004 at 15:52:48 (EDT)

Thanks Bruce for the update, sounds like the same type of station they had on 11th st that too had a ticket counter with a small waiting room and the buses pulled up to the curbside.
Bob
Tx USA - Friday, June 18, 2004 at 15:42:26 (EDT)

Thanks for the info, Bob. The 2nd & French bus stop is long gone now; that whole area has changed considerably over the years. Way built up with sky-scrapers (Wilmington-sized, about 10 stories or so). There is room for a bus station between Front & Second, on French - but it's not a bus station like the old one was, where the buses pulled into stalls, this is a curbside thing, with a small waiting room and ticket counter. And Clemente's Bus Station, on the duPont Highway is gone, too, that's a furniture salesroom now.
Bruce <spyderxl(at)comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Friday, June 18, 2004 at 10:39:07 (EDT)

The Bus Station was on 11th between Tatnal and West. It then moved to the present location at 2nd and French (I think it is still there, haven't been there in some time.) Back in the early 40's that where I would catch the Short line.
BOB
TX USA - Thursday, June 17, 2004 at 23:35:48 (EDT)

As I recall, when we travelled by Shortline to Toughkenamon, PA, which was somewhere around Kennet Square, we boarded the bus at 11th St. somewhere around Orange or West. It seems to me that there was a small Shortline office there, but this was back in the 40's and my memory of the time is a bit fuzzy since I was a young child.
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Thursday, June 17, 2004 at 06:50:45 (EDT)

Yes, I also agree that the color scheme was as noted on the Short Line buses. But, like you, Bob, I can't remember where you would catch the bus, it might have been at Rodney Square, or at the Central "Y", as I seem to remember the Arden bus went out Washington St. to Marsh Rd., then out Marsh Rd. to Arden. ???
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 22:14:14 (EDT)

When I lived on Waverly Road in Fairfax in the early fities and I was still too young to drive, I remember taking the Short Line bus coming down from West Chester on the Concord Pike to go into downtown Wilmington, but I'm darned if I can remember where I got off, typically, and where I boarded it to go back home. Was it at the triangle where 11th and Delaware Ave. meet and cross? And whoever described their bus's outer decor was right on the money.
Bob Wilson
Stamford, CT USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 21:45:41 (EDT)

Also, besides the Delaware Coach route that ran Phila. Pike (Rte. 13) to Philadelphia, didn't the Red Arrow bus line also run a route from Philadelphia to somewhere in Wilmington?
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 12:18:26 (EDT)

I recall riding The Short Line in 1953 in the Greenville area. The buses were blue and white with the company name written in script above the side windows.
Larry Roszkowiak <lroszkowiak@its.ucsf.edu>
San Francisco, CA USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 12:18:04 (EDT)

Hi Bob, do you mean the Short Line bus barn was on 11th St.? When I said I thought their home base was just across the Market St. Bridge, I meant their bus barn, where they stored the buses. I don't know, I'm just searching for answers. If you do mean their barn was on 11th St., do you remember where abouts on 11th.?
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 12:15:52 (EDT)

The Bus station was on 11th st. They also ran from Wilm to Salem, Bridgeton, Vineland and then to Atlantic city.
BOB
TX USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 09:29:59 (EDT)

Bruce, I remember the Short Line. I recall riding it to Toughkenamon (is that place still there?).
Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 19:43:48 (EDT)

What was the company name of the buses that ran from Wilmington to West Chester, and also had a route from Wilmington to Arden; don't know if they had any other routes or not. The Arden bus was sarcastically called the "Arden Clipper" because it was so slow, and the oil smoke was so bad cars couldn't follow closely, and no one could sit in the rear of the bus without getting overcome with hot oil fumes. Was that the Short Line Bus Co., or was it some other company. I believe their home base was just North of the Market St. bridge over the Brandywine, on the right side, and they also ran charter service. ???
Bruce
Wilmington, USA - Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 18:48:56 (EDT)

Does anyone remember the Krass Brothers ads? (If you didn't buy your clothes at Krass Brothers, you was robbed.) Benjamin Krass died on Monday the 7th at the age of 85.
Connie
USA - Monday, June 14, 2004 at 09:05:56 (EDT)

To Lisa Gates - Lisa - Oh Yeah, many a night at the Charcoal Pit - Kitchen Sink!). I remember a lot of the same things - Long before the Concord Mall and the Sheraton was Lynthwaites Ice Cream - and the trash can with the target on it as you drove out. Shellpot Creek, the Brandywine, Thompsons Bridge, "the Valley" At BHS - Stage Crew, Chorus, and of course, the Charcoal Pit again (seems to have played a major role). I've been to the reunions (who are all these people) - I'm in touch with a few of the old class, as well as some '76 and '78. Larry
Larry
Newark, De USA - Sunday, June 13, 2004 at 21:16:32 (EDT)

To Stan Radulski, your email address isn't working, so I'll have to ask this here - did your brother Mitch graduate from Brown Voc., Class of 1961? There was a Mitch Radulski in my class.
Bruce <spyderxl@comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 11:40:43 (EDT)

How about adding St. Paul's Grade School and Commerical, The two year High School for Girl's, at 4th & Van Buren Sts.
Barbara Gagnon Huber <bfred1200@msn.com>
wilmington, de USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 16:39:00 (EDT)

Thank you, Connie A. and A. Silver,for the info. about Dr. Harold Sortman. If anyone knows anything about Dr. Sortman's children (Doris and/or Andrew) please let me know. Marc Jatman
Marc Jartman <mjartman@aol.com>
Annapolis, MD USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 14:41:05 (EDT)

Last month, our small group of former Chem majors and Carling's Red Cap Ale drinkers from the Class of 1956 at UDel met again in Newark for the third consecutive year. Those present included Jack Baldwin (Sallies 1952), the pharmaceuticals industry mogul; Walt Lefferty (Mt. Pleasant 1952), the Emeritus government optical physicist and father of 6 girls; Mario LePera (Newark HS 1952), the former US Army fuels expert; Leon DeBrabender (Conrad 1952), our 'designated driver'; and Dave Jordan (Wilmington HS 1952), our Resident Raconteur with Down East roots: and me (PS DuPont 1952), recently named Chief Chiliast of the group. We had a blast as usual. All mentioned above asked me to say Hello to any of you who remember thee guys from back in the good old days.
Bob Wilson <wilso127@yahoo.com>
Stamford, CT USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 07:54:57 (EDT)

One can get an "oral history survey" about Dr Sortman through HSD Historical Society of Delaware, Italian Oral Histories, Colonial Dames in Delaware, WWII 302-655-7161 Sortman Harold HSD (HSD = Historical Society of Delaware) I found this by doing a web search for Harold Sortman Delaware.
Connie
USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 21:19:28 (EDT)

I vivdly remember Shelichs bakery-(whatever happened to Simon?), Ragan's Bakery- the Ragan brothers, and especially Radulski's Bakery-started by my father, continued by my brether Mitch. Great times and memories.
Stan Radulski <mompp8@yahoo.com>
DE USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 20:07:29 (EDT)

We never heard Dr. Sortman mention a son, but of course that doesn't mean he didn't have one. In the 1978 Wilmington telephone directory he is still listed as a GP at 2718 Washington St.
Connie
USA - Wednesday, June 09, 2004 at 08:51:25 (EDT)

I believe Dr. Sortman had a son named Andrew who graduated from P.S. duPont High School in 1967. I think he went to Butler Univ., but I lost contact with him after high school.
A. Silver
Rockville, MD USA - Tuesday, June 08, 2004 at 17:23:02 (EDT)

....and his full name was Doctor Harold Pisor Sortman.
Connie A
USA - Tuesday, June 08, 2004 at 09:33:42 (EDT)

Re DR SORTMAN - Here's what I remember. He retired sometime after 1973, he had a daughter, and he served in WW II. His wife died before he did. I believe his daughter's name was Doris.
Connie
USA - Tuesday, June 08, 2004 at 09:32:51 (EDT)

Christopher, when I was running around in the Valley (late 50's, early 60's), over near Smith's Bridge, the story that we all passed on to the younger crowd was that there was a headless horseman riding around late at night. That way, they didn't park around that area, which left more parking places for us! I never heard the story you related, that was probably later. :)
Bruce <spyderxl@comcast.net>
Wilmington, USA - Monday, June 07, 2004 at 22:31:05 (EDT)

I read where "Connie, USA" wrote to this site on April 28, 2004 that Dr. Sortman made a house call for her on Christmans day in the mid 1950s. Does anyone know what happened to Dr. Harold Sortman or any of his children. I am doing some family research and believe that he was a relative. I would appreciate any information you can provide. Thanks much.
Marc Jartman <mjartman@aol.com>
Annapolis, MD USA - Monday, June 07, 2004 at 22:18:29 (EDT)

Thanks for the memories Mario. Anybody else I hope will share some with me. Now some of the younger people on here may have heard this story in high school. Wondering if there is a basis in truth. Up in Beaver Valley off of route 100 there is a road know only to me as Cult house road. This story was used to scare freshman usually late at night. Anyway supposedly there is a cult up there, they follow people with black broncos then kill them. All the trees since trimmed back for power lines appear to grow away from the house or so the legend goes. There is also a tree with a large knot hole in the bottom. I have heard all sorts of dismembered things have been there. Wondering if anyone has heard of this Is there truth in it or is it just to scare the younger kids? Any info would be helpful
Christopher Barker <domon1178@hotmail.com>
Wilmington, de USA - Monday, June 07, 2004 at 17:59:05 (EDT)

Hey Larry, I too graduated from Brandywine in '77. I grew up just off Concord Pike. In fact I still live just blocks away from my childhood house. Spent many a fri. night at Charcoal Pit. I remember when Rollins building went up. Two old farm houses where torn down to make way. I remember watching one half of Fairfax shopping center going up in blazes. I use to like to hang out at Grady's bowling alley. (pre-fire). I have enjoyed this site. I would like to hear from others who grew up in the 60's and 70's. Lisa
Lisa Gates <lmg49@hotmail.com>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, June 06, 2004 at 14:04:05 (EDT)

This is a great site! Long time reader, first time writer. I grew up off Shipley Rd. and went to Brandywine HS'77. More doctor stuff - my grandfather (Dr. Lawrence Jones) had a hospital at 1010 Delaware Ave (next to the current Children's Theater). (Now the Jackson Street on-ramp to I-95 South) - Leased the building to the War Dept. in WWII - My Dad came back from the Navy to find they'd moved, but the taxi driver knewed they'd moved to Brandywine Hills so he found them. I remember watching as the building was demolished in the early 60's for the Interstate - The recovered bricks are the patio for my parents house. My doctor growing up was Dr. John Maroney - I think his office was on Delaware Ave.
Larry
Newark, DE USA - Thursday, June 03, 2004 at 15:57:33 (EDT)

Pat LeVan <LeVan1706@aol.com>
Port St. Lucie, FL USA - Tuesday, June 01, 2004 at 08:08:18 (EDT)

Hi! James P. Connor did receive the Congressional Medal of Honor. The parade you mentioned was held in Wilmington in 1944. I attended it with my mother and have a couple of pictures of it. Sgt. Connor is my uncle, my mother's brother. We are very proud of him. He died about nine years ago. His nickname was Smiles because he was always smiling no matter what happened. He always looked on the bright side of things. If you knew him, you would probably wonder how this man did the things he did in the war. He was very unassuming and did not like to draw attention to himself. Yet, when need be, he took the bull by the horn and did what he had to do. I'm sure he'd be happy that you all remember him. Dot
Dot Becker <dorothy.m.becker@dupont-dow.com>
New Castle, DE USA - Tuesday, June 01, 2004 at 07:34:21 (EDT)

Pat: Ooops, I lied. You're right about the name Connor... CONNOR, JAMES P. Rank and organization: Sergeant, U.S. Army, 7th Infantry, 3d Infantry Division. Place and date: Cape Cavalaire, southern France, 15 August 1944. Entered service at: Wilmington, Del. Birth: Wilmington, Del. G.O. No.: 18, 15 March 1945. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life above and beyond the call of duty. On 15 August 1944, Sgt. Connor, through sheer grit and determination, led his platoon in clearing an enemy vastly superior in numbers and firepower from strongly entrenched positions on Cape Cavalaire, removing a grave enemy threat to his division during the amphibious landing in southern France, and thereby insured safe and uninterrupted landings for the huge volume of men and materiel which followed. His battle patrol landed on "Red Beach" with the mission of destroying the strongly fortified enemy positions on Cape Cavalaire with utmost speed. From the peninsula the enemy had commanding observation and seriously menaced the vast landing operations taking place. Though knocked down and seriously wounded in the neck by a hanging mine which killed his platoon lieutenant, Sgt. Connor refused medical aid and with his driving spirit practically carried the platoon across several thousand yards of mine-saturated beach through intense fire from mortars, 20-mm. flak guns, machineguns, and snipers. En route to the Cape he personally shot and killed 2 snipers. The platoon sergeant was killed and Sgt. Connor became platoon leader. Receiving a second wound, which lacerated his shoulder and back, he again refused evacuation, expressing determination to carry on until physically unable to continue. He reassured and prodded the hesitating men of his decimated platoon forward through almost impregnable mortar concentrations. Again emphasizing the prevalent urgency of their mission, he impelled his men toward a group of buildings honeycombed with enemy snipers and machineguns. Here he received his third grave wound, this time in the leg, felling him in his tracks. Still resolved to carry on, he relinquished command only after his attempts proved that it was physically impossible to stand. Nevertheless, from his prone position, he gave the orders and directed his men in assaulting the enemy. Infused with Sgt. Connor's dogged determination, the platoon, though reduced to less than one-third of its original 36 men, outflanked and rushed the enemy with such furiousness that they killed 7, captured 40, seized 3 machineguns and considerable other materiel, and took all their assigned objectives, successfully completing their mission. By his repeated examples of tenaciousness and indomitable spirit Sgt Connor transmitted his heroism to his men until they became a fighting team which could not be stopped.
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Tuesday, June 01, 2004 at 01:52:18 (EDT)

Pat LeVan: Here's the only WWII Medal of Honor winner I could find from the State of Delaware... NELSON, WILLIAM L . Rank and organization: Sergeant, U.S. Army, 60th Infantry, 9th Infantry Division. Place and date: At Djebel Dardys, Northwest of Sedjenane, Tunisia, 24 April 1943. Entered service at: Middletown, Del. Birth: Dover, Del. G.O. No.: 85, 17 December 1943. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life, above and beyond the call of duty in action involving actual conflict. On the morning of 24 April 1943, Sgt. Nelson led his section of heavy mortars to a forward position where he placed his guns and men. Under intense enemy artillery, mortar, and small-arms fire, he advanced alone to a chosen observation position from which he directed the laying of a concentrated mortar barrage which successfully halted an initial enemy counterattack. Although mortally wounded in the accomplishment of his mission, and with his duty clearly completed, Sgt. Nelson crawled to a still more advanced observation point and continued to direct the fire of his section. Dying of handgrenade wounds and only 50 yards from the enemy, Sgt. Nelson encouraged his section to continue their fire and by doing so they took a heavy toll of enemy lives. The skill which Sgt. Nelson displayed in this engagement, his courage, and self-sacrificing devotion to duty and heroism resulting in the loss of his life, was a priceless inspiration to our Armed Forces and were in keeping with the highest tradition of the U.S. Army.
Bill Fisher <whfisher@earthlink.net>
Westminster, CA USA - Tuesday, June 01, 2004 at 01:34:35 (EDT)