Old Chester, PA: Guest Book entries July-August 2001
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Hello Laura...yes, Jake Zubko had a shoe repair in Chester for years. One of his sons "Nicky" played drums in a Polka Band called the "Knight Riders"..Sunday afternoon polka parties at Litwas farm or was it Savoys..three of his children are still living. I will pass it on to them that their father was remembered as a Chester business person..How nice of you to remember
OK - here's a quiz for you. What is the name of the last record (song)played at the end of the Saturday night dance at St. James (in '49 and '50)and who was the artist? And, was "Heartaches" by Ted Weems our favorite jitterbug number?
I'm ready whenever you are Dave! I wanted to head for Chester this summer when I was at your house, what happened? Your sister Judy.
Hey Dave B - I know John too. Tell him you heard from Little Beatle. He'll know it's me. Here in Virginia, first time I went in to a Jerry's subs to get an Italian hoagie (they call it sub), I told them I wanted everything hot. They looked at me like I had two heads on my shoulders! Their hot was the hot pepper seeds you put on pizza. I walked out without a purchase.
It is the bread. Whenever I go up north, I come home with traveling hoagies and extra rolls.
In Woodlyn, Pa, Michael's Sandwich Shop does a mail delivery of hoagies and cheesesteaks, tastykakes, and peanut chews. I think delivery goes out once a week.
Whenever we go downashore (WWC, NJ), one night's dinner is a hoagie; another is a cheesesteak. Oh Heaven! Russo's in North Wildwood is the best!
OK, I also live in the south as my sister Judy. I know what a good cheesesteak & hoagie is. I worked at Cal's hoagie shop on 3rd & Hayes during the 60's. I made one hell of a HOAGIE. I just wish that I could have Ero's deliver me the rolls here in the south & I could reproduce the BEST Hoagies you ever had. The meat is the same, the Rolls made the hoagie. They just ain't figured that out in the south. We have a place called Mario's here that makes an Italian Sub, closest I can get to the north but Chester always had & will have the best. My buddy John Malynowski came & visited a while back & brought 5 large Hoagies from Claymont. OH what a treat, I pigged out all day & the Day after. Nothing down here could compare. While you all ask who made the best, live out of Chester for a while & they are all the best. Just my opinion!!!! I can taste them as I type this. Damn, Judy, lets go to Chester & get a Hoagie!!!!!!!!!
Does anyone remember Dr.Paul Crowthers Office was on Edgemont Ave and he made house calls...........Now those were the days .......
Grew up in neighborhood near the old High School. St James '52. Chums Bob and John Giampalmi, Walt McCray, Walter Robinson, Jack Smith, John Iannacone, Domenic and Larry Pascale, the Niblo Gang. The Sugar Bowl, Hudson dealership, Bullocks Pharmacy, Busby's Grocery Store, Lloyd's Market, The Voc, Robert Hall's, Landino's Barber Shop, Lewicki's Real Estate, Bookout,s, Perry's, Dr Valloti.
Happy memories!
Born and raised in Chester At 12 and Upland. Class 1953 Chester High. Great web site
Hi Sarah, Judy from Hickory, NC. My brother David lives in Havelock, NC. I am sure you know that is between Newbern and Atlantic Beach. Been to Moorehead City hundreds of times. Straight down 70. Also been to Emerald Isle and Beaufort, maybe I didn't spell that right. I love it down their. That is because I love the beach, I know it isn't Wildwood or Ocean City ,NJ but it is still the ocean.
Does anyone remember the shop on a side street not far from the Newstand and across from Spears with a sign in the front window that read "We mend everything but broken hearts." I was a very young girl when I first saw it and always remembered that cute advertisement. Also, occasionally, they would have a mime in that window. I never thought he was real until the day he ogled me and leaned over to watch me walk by - I was soooo embarrassed and everyone laughed. Why haven't we heard much about Whelan's Drugstore? Gee, that was a popular place and four of us highschool students worked there after school hours - Evelyn Phillips, Joan Hesling, Jeannette (whose last name escapes me) and me. I know how to reach Joan, but I would love to be in touch with Evelyn and Jeannette too. We worked there 2 straight years and had a lot of fun doing it - also Edna and her mother who whipped up all those delicious tuna sandwiches - I can still smell that tuna when I would go downstairs to change into my uniform. Things were more sanitary then than now and we all had to wear nets on our hair. What ever happened to that code? If there's one thing I don't like, it's hair in my food. Ugh!!
I am married to a Chesterite, Peter Paul Scallan. We now live in Morehead City, North Carolina. I was delighted to see all the features on your Website. I was delighted to learn that Chester has such a long and important history as it has affected the overall history of our country.
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Does anyone remember Joyce Bozman. She married Roger ????? They now live in either Idaho or Iowa. Do you know Roger's last name?
Joyce graduated from Chester High School in 1948 with Jean Seiverd Windsor who is trying to locate her.
Joyce lived on Remington Street in Sun Village.
If you have any info about Joyce email me at fredal@icdc.com
Fred
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Does anyone remember Joyce Bozman. She married Roger ????? They now live in either Idaho or Iowa. Do you know Roger's last name?
Joyce graduated from Chester High School in 1948 with Jean Seiverd Windsor who is trying to locate her.
Joyce lived on Remington Street in Sun Village.
If you have any info about Joyce email me at fredal@icdc.com
Fred
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Does anyone remember Joyce Bozman. She married Roger ????? They now live in either Idaho or Iowa. Do you know Roger's last name?
Joyce graduated from Chester High School in 1948 with Jean Seiverd Windsor who is trying to locate her.
Joyce lived on Remington Street in Sun Village.
If you have any info about Joyce email me at fredal@icdc.com
Fred
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Hey, hey,....Remember what was next door to the original John's doggie shop? Pappino's (Angelo) shoe shine parlor. Had to wait your turn for a good shine. TN (CHS 54)
Does anybody remember John's doggie shop. It used to be right next store to St. Michaels School. Hot dogs were two for $.35 . On Saturday every one would go to the to the movies and then go the Welsh for talk and food. Remember the doughnut shop across from the school. Does anybody remember that name? Notre Dame class of 1958. St. Mikes Class of 54.
Judy Babicki Augustine Rzucidlo: I forgot one, Soft Pretzels, they sell bagels with 3 peices of rock salt for $1.50 each..G
Judy Babicki Augustine Rzucidlo : You're right, I've been down south and out west. A bad Chester hoagie would be great. They laugh at WaWa but shop at Piggly Wiggly? In Denver we can get a "gourmet" Philly Cheese Steak, Steak-ums in a different box. Used to get Chester hoagies flown out to Denver Fedex, but nobody does that anymore. George
terrific idea. lived in the chester area from 1959 to 1964. loved it there.
Raised around 5th and Barclay-- Patterson St. grad. chs 1959. Went to Franklin Elem. school. Interested in fam. that lived on the old street. Chester long ago was a beautiful city. My girlfriends and I would walk through town and window shop. At the foot of my street was the Great Leopard mkt. and skating rink. I worked for Coopersmith while going through h.s. Would like to hear from old friends especilly one that lived on my street Bobby Grubb.
To Paul Crowther
Hi Paul I've been trying to E-mail you and you have not answered. Maybe you did not get my E-mails. Let me know if you got my E-mail. Thanks.
Yes Pat,
I remember that shoe repair shop also. Zubko's was on Caldwell St.
I grew up on east 24th St...Some of my buddies were Joe Logan, Bill Scott, "Biff" Cramer Joe and Ed Mc Ginley all from Houston or Meade St.. I lived across the street from Bond Bread and remember the change from horse drawn to motor trucks for deliveries...I can't begin to relate the flood of memories this site has began in my feeble brain...Love it....Send me an e-mail I'll write back... Thanks for the meeting place, it's great to hear about the Chester I knew...I went to Wetherill, Smedley, RTHS, and graduated from Williamson Trade School...
sorry, that should have said 7th st. gang.
Hi everyone: I am looking for any members of the so-called 7th st. gand circa 1940's. I have a picture which i will send as soon as i can. My dad is in the picture but i really don't know who else is in it. His name is Len Owsiany aka Oats or Oatsie. Anyone with any information i would much appreciate it.
You people don't know how lucky you are. You keep talking about who makes the best hoagies, Dicostanza, Two J's, Phil and Jim's, Well untill you live in the south you would settle for the person that made the worst just to get a crispy roll instead of a hoagie that comes on a hot dog bun with American cheese. And every Cheese steak you order down here you can count on it that it's a frozen steak-um that yu buy in your grocers freezer, and that is a real genuine Philadelphia cheese steak, yea right!
You people don't know how lucky you are. You keep talking about who makes the best hoagies, Dicostanza, Two J's, Phil and Jim's, Well untill you live in the south you would settle for the person that made the worst just to get a crispy roll instead of a hoagie that comes on a hot dog bun with American cheese. And every Cheese steak you order down here you can count on it that it's a frozen steak-um that yu buy in your grocers freezer, and that is a real genuine Philadelphia cheese steak, yea right!
You people don't know how lucky you are. You keep talking about who makes the best hoagies, Dicostanza, Two J's, Phil and Jim's, Well untill you live in the south you would settle for the person that made the worst just to get a crispy roll instead of a hoagie that comes on a hot dog bun with American cheese. And every Cheese steak you order down here you can count on it that it's a frozen steak-um that yu buy in your grocers freezer, and that is a real genuine Philadelphia cheese steak, yea right!
John, I worked a few days as a relief pharmacist for your father. Thank you for this beautiful website.
I DO NOT REMEMBER MR. ZYBKO'S SHOE REPAIR BUT I DO REMEMBER THE SHOE MAKER ON 9TH AND MORTON AVENUE..I THINK IT WAS CALLED VERNE'S
To Sandra Bogardus who now lives in the old Rankin House on East 20th St. My grandparents lived next door at 709 E 20th St. I have lots of fond memories of time spent at their house. They were some beautiful homes. I'll look to see if my parents have some old pictures of the neighborhood.
Hi Laura, I knew the Moffets. They lived about 3 houses from me. I can not remember the Campbells. Where did they live?
Went to the Chester Chat Room......where is everybody? Come on!!!! Get with the program.....
What a great site to connect with memories and old friends. John you did a good thing here!
Hi Marge,
I lived at the lower end of Green Street. Did you know the Campbell's and the Moffets? Miss Brown was a sweet heart.
Paul Crowthers: I thought for sure you'd remember Joe Pyne who was another local celebrity. He was among the first talk show hosts starting out on local radio stations then finally to California.He pulled no punches and became quite popular until cancer took his leg and finally his life at a very early age. Many times after that I heard Steve Allen and Jack Carson mention his name. He lived in the 900 block W. 7th Street, and attended St. Michael's grammar school.
Reply to "Does anyone remember Helen Walker? Yes, we graduated together from Notre Dame H.S. in 1941. I heard she died a few years after that. There was a Betty Walker who married Bill Wallace (he had a machine shop at 3rd & Crosby for years). They had 2 boys, Nicky & Petey and lived in Upland. I read where Betty & Bill are both deceased.
I do enjoy this website. Seeing Chester the way it used to be. I have so many good memories. I do remember Mom's Hoagie Shop down on 3rd St. I remember when regular hoagies were 25 cents and italian hoagies were 35 cents. So much has changed. I remember when I was a little girl, 3rd Street was the place to be. When I grew up, although it changed a little, 3rd Street was still the place to be. So much has changed now. Very much so. I miss being at home sometimes. It's good to know they are finally revitalizing Chester.
I do enjoy this website. Seeing Chester the way it used to be. I have so many good memories. I do remember Mom's Hoagie Shop down on 3rd St. I remember when regular hoagies were 25 cents and italian hoagies were 35 cents. So much has changed. I remember when I was a little girl, 3rd Street was the place to be. When I grew up, although it changed a little, 3rd Street was still the place to be. So much has changed now. Very much so. I miss being at home sometimes. It's good to know they are finally revitalizing Chester.
TO: Don McClure Yes, I have a sister Joyce. She married Larry Oronzio (who died in 1982), has two sons and lives in Brookhaven. I will mention your name to her the next time I talk to her.
Hi Laura, I lived in the 600 block of McIlvain. Did you live near the Ukraine club? I went to Morton Ave. school for a half year in 1st grade. I also had Miss Brown. I was transferred to Larkin for the second half of first grade. I had Miss Brown's twin sister in Larkin
RE: DiCostanza's Hoagies.Persons raving about these hoagies are right in that no others come close. I remember walking by Mom's in the early 30's on my way to Immaculate Heart grammar school. Oh, the aroma! Checked out their website but you failed to mention how they came up with the name 'hoagie'. Following is my recollection: Mom made these sandwiches for a group of men who worked in the area and were on lunch hour.....they called them "Italian Sandwiches". Some of them lived in the area known as "Hog Island" around Phila. Airport, and got a local sandwich shop to make them; hence, someone came up with the name 'Hoagie'. Living down here in 'slower-lower' Delaware, only name they know is "Submarine sandwiches" which is what they taste like. Only one who comes close (but still calls them Subs) is Casapullo. They are only ones to get the good Italian rolls which makes the sandwich. I was excited to hear WaWa was coming this way and advertising their 'Hoagies"....Don't you believe it. Very chinzy on their fillings and rolls were awful. One was enough. Would be interested in hearing other's ideas of the name "Hoagie".
Mary Jane Birkhofer - Was your husband an english teacher at Pulaski Jr. High for a while?
JR
Info: If you are using explorer you can select edit from the menu bar, and then pick find on this page, to find people in this bulletin board. You just type in a last name or word (ex: Lyric) it will go to that occurance. I also presume everyone knows you can find chesterites at classmates.com also.
JR
Right, Dan! I remember sitting in Miss Bowen's room, listening to the announcements. She kept a water-pistol in her drawer.
I just signed up for the CHAT ROOM, thank you! Maybe it would be a good idea to schedule some time(s), when we can be pretty sure some others will be there.
Thanks again for this great site!
Right, Dan! I remember sitting in Miss Bowen's room, listening to the announcements. She kept a water-pistol in her drawer.
I just signed up for the CHAT ROOM, thank you! Maybe it would be a good idea to schedule some time(s), when we can be pretty sure some others will be there.
Thanks again for this great site!
Hello all, Loved Phil and Jim's Hoagies. Marge Hollis...I lived on Green Street. I lived there from 1950-1966. Diane.....Loved the picture of Morton School. I went there. My last year there was 1960. I had Miss Brown and Miss Lawton just like your aunt. Went there for 6 years.
Just spent a few wonderful hours on the Chester Chat Room, met a few old friends and made a few new ones. Don't miss out on the fun, click on http://communities.msn.com/ChesterChat/chat.msnw and sign up for the chat room it takes a little bit to download the free software if you don't already have it but once you do, it's a snap, see you all there, George M.
Bill Locke: I think you're right, do you remember Momma Di pouring that olive oil on right from the gallon can?
I KNOW PHIL AND JIM'S AND 2 J'S ARE GOOD BUT THEY CANT EVEN COME CLOSE TO DICOSTANZA'S.THEY'RE ON MARKET STREET IN LINWOOD BY I95 SO GO GET THE BEST HOAGIE EVER, REMEMBER MOM INVENTED THE HOAGIE.THEY EVEN HAVE A WEB SITE WWW.DICOSTANZAS.COM BILL & SHEILA LOCKE
IS THERE ANYONE OUT THERE WHO WENT TO PULASKI THE FIRST YEAR IT OPENED? I LOVED THEIR ( COMBINATION SANDWICHES) REMEMBER MR.MIGNOGNA, MR. BELMONTE,ETC. AND THAT SONG WE HAD TO SING AT GRADUATION, [WE HOLD THESE TRUTHS TO BE SELF EVIDENT,THAT ALL MEN ARE CREATED EQUAL,ETC.
Just found at about this site. It is great. Hope to hear from someone from my old neighborhood. I lived on McIlvain between 6th &7th streets. I graduated from St. Mikes in 1951 and Notre Dame in 1955.
Hi John Bullock, Your Sight Is Fantastic, Be Proud! Hello to all you people out there who are having as much fun as I am.
HI TERRY,
GOT YOUR MESSAGE, JUST TRIED TO CALL MARYLOU, HAVEN'T TALKED TO HER IN A WHILE. HOPE ALL ARE WELL. I CAN TELL YOU ARE ENJOYING THIS SITE, HAVE YOU SEEN AUNT JANE'S PICTURE ON MORTON SCHOOL? I SCANNED IT FOR HER AND JOHN PUT THE PICTURE AND THE INFORMATION ABOUT MORTON SCHOOL ON FOR HER. JUST WAITING FOR THE REST OF THE PICTURES I SENT IN TO ME ON LINE. WELL TAKE CARE AND TALK TO YOU LATER.
LOVE DIANE
Maybe i'm a little prejudgiced (SP) but i have to go with two j's having grown up on them!! Monica, our uniforms had to be made, we bought the material and i forget who sewed them. we also made our own pom poms and the thingys on our shoes!!
Hi faith I saw your name and thought i would say hi. My name is theresa johnson i married bart johnson. your brother bill friend well just wanted to say hi.
Back again ! I see a few names that ring a bell, Joe Fusco I believe your Dad lived on our block I lived on 11th and Potter and I think your dad lived on 11th between Potter and Upland, he was a little older then me a hung around with my sister Sandy . Your Mom's maiden name Riccardi also reminds me of a Frank (Francis) Riccardi that I went to Jefferies with. Paula Dryden, you mentioned you had a large family and you went to Jefferies also, I think I was in class with your sister(?) Joyce Locowicki. Hoagie's? Well when I visited recently I tryed several and Phil and Jim's were the best next time I'll try Two J's. All I remember my Dad saying is that Di Costanz's were the best.
PHIL AND JIMS,TWO JS?????????? I THINK YOU MEAN STACKYS
PHIL AND JIMS,TWO JS?????????? I THINK YOU MEAN STACKYS
Is anyone alive out there that graduated Dewey-Mann in 1954? Does anyone remember going swimming at Village Green swimming pool when it was a public pool? Does anyone remember the West-end Library just north of Horace-Mann school? Does anyone know if Mr. Blazynski is still alive. He was the gym teacher for Dewey-Mann. Is Bruno Bakery still in business? My brother Wesley was head-baker there. The owner is or was named David. Does anyone remember Massie Gibson, Ruth Ann Sloan, Marlene Scott, Jerry Foster, James Jones, Eddie Wright, Eddie Beauchamp?
To Nancy Hellings - Thanks for your reply. Could you tell Janet I was asking about her and would love to hear from her. Maybe you pass on my email address to her. Many thanks.
To Monica - Phil and Jims are the best!!!
What a wonderful historical connection to the Chester I remember growing up. My father use to work at the old "Bus Barn" first as a driver and later as the Chief Dispatcher. I remember my first bowling lesson in the bowling alley across from Pep Boys, swimming at the YMCA, and going to movies. We use to live in Garden City and walk to Chester cutting through Chester Park. I attended Nether Providence HS and remember going to games between us and Chester HS. I have been working in Bahrain for the last five years, but my sisters still live back there and I try to visit the area every chance I get.
TERRY, YOU ARE CORRECT. WE DID HAVE TO GO TO MASS BEFORE EACH GAME.AND I DO REMEMBER THE BOYS YOU MENTIONED. KEVIN DARE, AND THE OTHERS. BUT PLEASE CORRECT ME IF I AM WRONG, YOU CHEERLEADERS HAD "REAL" UNIFORMS. THE AA DID NOT HAVE THE MONEY TO SUPPLY US WITH UNIFORMS. WE BOUGHT OUR OWN. I REMEMBER GOING TO THE YORK STORE 'DOWNTOWN' TO GET THE WHITE PLEATED SKIRT (THAT CAME DOWN TO OUR KNEES)AND THE KELLY GREEN SWEATER. WE BOUGHT OUR OWN SNEAKERS AND SOCKS AND EVEN MADE OUR OWN POM-POMS FROM CREPE PAPER. I REMEMBER SAVING THE MEGAPHONE CONTAINER FROM HONEYSUCKLE (WE WOULD GET SOFT DRINKS IN IT) TO MAKE HOME-MADE MEGAPHONES,COMPLETE WITH GREEN AND WHITE CREPE PAPER TO USE AT THE NEXT GAME. I REMEMBER OUR PARENTS HAVING BAKE SALES TO BUY UNIFORMS FOR THE SQUAD BUT IT DIDN'T HAPPEN UNTIL AFTER MY GROUP LEFT REZ.
WHO MAKES THE BEST HOAGIES AND CHEESESTEAKS? TWO J'S ON HIGHAND AVE OR PHIL AND JIMS ON EDGEMONT AVE????LET'S TAKE A POLL. ANY OTHER CONTENDERS??
WHO MAKES THE BEST HOAGIES AND CHEESESTEAKS? TWO J'S ON HIGHAND AVE OR PHIL AND JIMS ON EDGEMONT AVE????LET'S TAKE A POLL. ANY OTHER CONTENDERS??
To Nina Hodder, yes Janet is my sister and she is doing good and lives in Delaware.
Diane, my email was down, couldn't open last message, Tell tom i said hello!!
HI JOANN MC GINNIS,
READ YOUR E MAIL, MY HUSBAND GREW UP IN CHESTER AND BELONGED TO SAINT ANTHONY'S CHURCH, HIS GRANDMOM YEARS AGO WAS THE HOUSE KEEPER FOR SAINT ANTHONY'S. HE DOES REMEMBER MARUSCO'S AND HE DOESN' REMEMBER THE BAKERY STORE. REMEMBER THE SPAGHETTI DINNERS FROM SAINT ANTHONY'S? HOW DELICIOUS, BOY DO I MISS THAT COOKING. I MET HIM AND HE INTRODUCED ME TO THE DELICIOUS COOKING OF THE WOMEN OF SAINT ANTYHONY'S, REMEMBER THE ROAST PORK, WHITE PIZZA, SAUKSAGE AND PEPPERS? MMMM COULD GO FOR SOME NOW. WELL, HE LIVED ON 24TH STREET, MAYBE YOU KNOW HIM, TOM TROUT? HIS MOTHER PLAYED THE ORGAN FOR THE CHURCH, ANNA MAE TROUT. WELL, ANYTHING TO ADD JUST E MAIL ME.
DIANE
does anyone remember the grocery store run by the maruscos. also the bakery by the buemi and sons or the venetian bar run by mr chivalotti-and dirty old franks candy store on 3rd and parker street anybody that went to st anthonys would remember him
lets here from someone joanne
does anyone remember the grocery store run by the maruscos. also the bakery by the buemi and sons or the venetian bar run by mr chivalotti-and dirty old franks candy store on 3rd and parker street anybody that went to st anthonys would remember him
lets here from someone joanne
I'm really loving this. Thanks so much.
Gloria Ragusi (born & raised in Chester)
How about those great meatball sandwiches and hot roast beef sandwiches you could buy at Trainer Pool? You had to go down those steps to the little place attached to it. Never had a better one!!
To Pat Venable, I remember you now. My husband had to help me out(from his days of dating Donna) god, i can't believe i had that much of a brain malfunction. Year ahead of me right? short red hair right? (at least back then anyway!)They do say the memory is the first to go........
Hey Monica, will get back to you on your email, but wanted to add a little about Rez football on saturday mornings, i remember most of the names you listed,(of course older than me) but there are a buch more from a little later, like Kevin Dare, Dave Kazarsky, Joe Lastowka, My brothers Jim and Mike, Tony Kozak, Joe Klecko, Mike Creedon, all who went on to St James, ( i know i'm missing a few from that time) Sounded like you went to Mass that "one" Saturday before the Charity game. I was a cheerleader and if memory serves me correctly we had to go EVERY saturday before a game. I don't think coach Bill Waldron would have had it any other way. Gosh I listed guys from my brother's years but forgot the guys from my time like Mike Lupi, Dave Cominskie, Bill Kennedy, Mario Bachia, Hi guys if you're out there!
Honeysuckle was at 9th & Hayes. Between Highland Avenue & Wilson Streets. Before it was Honeysuckle it was Ma Ferguson's This was during the war. I worked there when I was 16. We made box lunches from 11pm to 2am for the factories along the river. I could probably write a short story about experiences there. We had fun.
Would love to hear from someone who graduated in 1942 from Rez.
Answer to Dave Murray, I remember playing ball with you at Chester East little league. My Brother Carmen and I went to St James. I graduated in 1971, Carmen Graduated in 1969. We both played for SunVillage and then went to play teener league for Baldwin's. Our home feild was Fizanno filed. Last time I was back it was covered in cement blocks(the field).
We lived in Chester until 1966 on 11th between potter and upland. Then moved to 21st street right by St James until He was married in 1971 and I got married in 1972.
Carmen is still in the area. He lives in Brookhaven. I moved to Colorado in 1979.
Email me anytime Carmen's email is ike24pa@yahoo.com
Anyone remember Miss Fusel--the librarian at Crozer Library across from Larkin School? She had a Friday, after-school reading group/story time. Took great interest in kids who used the library. This was in the '40s. Spent many a cold winter night in the silence of that sanctuary. Made a reader out of me
any one out there that grew up in sun village in the 60's and 70's or played chester east little league.is this the carmen iacona that live over by potter st.this site is great brings back old memories. like the saying goes you can move out of chester but you can't take the chester out of you.graduated chester high 1975,and still where a clipper's hat
I lived in Mc Cafferty village from about 1971 till 1979. Witch I know is gone now. I don't remember a lot about Chester, I was to young. What I do remember is going to Whitesands pool every summer and the splash party's at the brookhaven pool. I rember riding bikes and roller skating done bell hill and trainer hill. Also I rember going swimming at trainer rocks. I went to William penn elm. And can rember a few teachers there. My favorit was Mrs. Irving if anyone knows her or if you read this please e-mail me I would love to talk to her. I also rember getting sand stone from a junk yard. though I can not remember the name, I think it was on 9
Hey Monica...I lived at the eastend and I remember the Honeysuckle.Does anyone remember the shoe repair shop next to the playground on Caldwell Street? Mr Zubko's Shoe Repair Shop?
Does anyone remember Joyce Bozman. She married Roger ????? They now live in either Idaho or Iowa. Do you know Roger's last name?
Joyce graduated from Chester High School in 1948 with Jean (Sieward)?? Windsor who is trying to locate her.
Joyce lived on Remington Street in Sun Village.
If you have any info about Joyce email me at fredal@icdc.com
Fred
Does anyone remember Joyce Bozman. She married Roger ????? They now live in either Idaho or Iowa. Do you know Roger's last name?
Joyce graduated from Chester High School in 1948 with Jean (Sieward)?? Windsor who is trying to locate her.
Joyce lived on Remington Street in Sun Village.
If you have any info about Joyce email me at fredal@icdc.com
Fred
I was talking to (2) gentlemen on my job about the "masscre of 1948" they were saying that the shooter's last name was collins and that he had hit the number (street number) for a lot of money and that the numbers guy refused to pay him and he was also a former war vet who had gotten medals for marksmanship. one of the people shot in the head was the uncle of one of the two (2) guys I was talking to. that stuck his head out of the bar and got shot.
THAT IS "CRUSH" NOT CUS"
IF I MISSED ANYONE'S NAME PLEASE FORGIVE--I WAS A LONG TIME AGO--GUESS I JUST REMEMBER THE ONE'S I HAD A CUS ON--HA- HA ( AS I BLUSH).
MY GOODNESS, DONNA! IF YOU DON'T REMEMBER HONEYSUCKLE FARMS YOU MUST BE TOOOOOOOO YOUNG OR AND EAST-ENDER! TERRY IS CORRECT. IT WAS ACROSS FROM REZ AND SACRED HEART HOSPITAL (NEITHER ARE THERE NOW) ABOUT HALF A BLOCK FROM HIGHLAND AVE. ACTUALLY, THE BUILDINGS ARE STILL THERE AND THE SPIRIT IS STILL THERE. WE WOULD GO THERE AFTER REZ FOOTBALL GAMES ON SATURDAY MORNINGS AND GET A MEGAPHONE-SHAPED CONTAINER OF COCA-COLA FOR ABOUT 50 CENTS, IF MEMORY SERVES. NONE OF OUR FOOTBALL HEROES FROM THOSE DAYS HAVE HOWN UP ON THIS WEBSITE--WHERE ARE JACK THURSTLIC,BILLY LOCKE, BLAISE MCLOUGHLIN, JACK NACARELLI, NICK LOMBARDO, TOM MCGINN. LET'S HERE IT FOR THE BOYS!!! WE YELLED OUR HEARTS OUT FOR YOU GUYS. WHERE ARE YOU NOW? I REMEMBER THE YEAR WE BEAT CHARITY--EVEN FR. DUFFY HAD HIS DOUBTS--WE ALL WENT TO MASS THAT SATURDAY MORNING BEFORE THE GAME.!! I THINK FR. DFFY POMISED US ALL A VCTORY DACE IF WE BEAT CHARITY. AND WE DANCED OU HEARTS OUT IN THE AUDITORIUM. REMEMBER???
Betsy " don't touch it "
Dan, Smedley 51 CHS 54
Anybody remember hanging out at Ginos on 9th and Booth or the swimming parties at the Trainer swimming pool? Does anyone remember Cals Hoagie Shop on 3rd and Hayes. How about those Saturday night slow dances at St. James and Chichester HS and then crusing all over Chester having a great time. Even heading up the Conchester to the old Bowling Alley. Remember the price of gas? Kids now day do not know what they missed. It's great reading all the comments. If we only had a time machine to take us back to the good old days.
DID`NT KNOW BIRNEY WAS A POLITICAN BUT DO KNOW WHY DAN GRANDFATHER DIN`NT WANT HIM THE BACK POOL ROOM. FRANK BUFFINGTON WAS SHOOTING SOL WEINBERG 25 POINTS STRAIGHT POOL FOR $500 BACK IN THE EARLY 50`S ALSO WASN`T BIRNEY`S LOCATED ON 5TH ST ACROSS FROM THE POST OFFICE BEFOR MOVING TO THE AVENUE?
Honeysuckle was "the" place to get ice cream in the west end during the 60's. it was located on 9th st. near highland ave, somewhat across from Sacred Heart and Rez. always the place to go after and Rez football game at Memorial Park.
i was born and raised in chester, and may have some old pictures that you would be interested in, of parades ,deshong park, and more. i will have to dig them out though,so you will have give some time to get them out,o k???
What exactly was Honeysuckle? An ice cream store? Grocery store? Where was it located and during what years? I vaguely remember it but don't think I was ever there.
Hi all, I was born in Springfield, But raised in Chester till Iwas 10. Now we live in Florida. My mom is Joan Shepherd - Carlow, My dad was William Shepherd. My 2 brothers still live in the area. If anyone remembers my family I would enjoy hearing from you.
Pat Venables: how do i know you, your name is ringing such a bell but i'm not sure why. Rez? thanks for the info about Larry, sorry to hear he has passed on. He was always such a friendly guy.sorry about the memory loss, but i know i know you.
I was a member of St. Robert's Parochial School Class of 1961. Are any members of the class out there? If so, get in touch. Like to find out if anyone is interested in getting together and talking over old times.
To Betsy and Mike Gaudino....I can't remember that phrase but I do remember to nice dreaded little paddle hanging from Mr Joseph's door. Smedley 51, CHS 54. Take care!
To Mike Guadino: "If it doesn't belong to you........" Finish that statement, if you truly remember Mr. Joseph M. Joseph.
To PAUL D.CROWTHER Re your 8-21-01 community to dave schulthise PETE SCHULTHISE WAS MY UNCLE HIS FIRST NAME WAS ANTHONY DON'T KNOW PETE CAME FROM HIS BROTHERS WERE DAVE(MY DAD) ,FRANIS AND LEO.
john, just to let you and everyone else know that if there are or were family members that are no longer locatable, there are some ways that they can be found. for one, if they were in the military you can go on military.com You can find most of all addresses of everyone you are looking for. It has worked for me. I do know of other avenues that our readers may want to know about. Be talkin' to you, "G"
TO PAUL CROWTHER:
SINCE YOUR NAME APPEARS SO OFTEN, MY MOTHER WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF YOU HAVE A SISTER IN LAW NAMED BETTY. ALSO YOUR INFORMATION IS SO ACCURATE AND SO PRECISE THAT IT IS A PLEASURE JUST TO SIT AT THE COMPUTER AND READ YOUR COMMENTS. I HAVE LIVED AND WORKED IN CHESTER ALL OF MY LIFE AND I THOROUGHLY ENJOY THIS WEBSITE. I AM A GRADUATE OF CHS 67, AND STILL WORK DOWNTOWN OR OVERTOWN AS SO MANY CHESTERITES USED TO SAY. HOPE TO HEAR FROM YOU. ELEANOR GRANT
Terry Mchugh I emailed you about larry the milkman. His last name was Landino,he passed away a few years ago.
To Nancy Hellings - Nancy, are you related in anyway to Janet Hellings who used to live on E.14th in Sun Hill? I used to go to CHS with Janet in the sixties. To Terry Owsiany McHugh - Terry, In what city of Australia does your brother live?
I remember walking the the streets at 3rd & Highland during the 60's & it was nothing to see Joe Schpuck or 6 Finger Scheck camping out on the steps of Tripoleti's Drug Store or the Grocerie store on the north side of 3rd & Highland, I forget the name. On the other corner was the Bank Tavern, & the other corner a empty store front next to the Park Hotel. Behind the empty store front I remeber someone opened a Pin Ball place for us kids to hang out, although we already had one next to Sloppy Joes that Bo & Pearl opened with Pin Ball Machines & a Pool Table. Anyway my sister Judy, who I am sending this for wants to know if anyone out there remembers the local bums(or less fortunite) who really were harmless & if I remember right 6Finger Scheck would visit the local State Store for some for the low price of a Quart Of Thunderbird. MEMORIES
To Terry Owsiany McHugh - Wow who would have thought!!! Next time you see or hear from him give him my regards. He may not remember me but tell him I said hello anyway.
Great site! I went to Jeffries Elementary School and I remember they had dances for the 5th and 6th graders and after the dance we would walk to the Melrose Dinner on Morton Ave. in Sun Village. On Saturday's I went to the "Mac Movies", 15 cents to get in and 10 cents for candy. My allowance was a quarter.
I am one of the kids that grew up in Eyre Park during the 50's and 60's. Went to CHS would have graduated in 1965. Now living on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Would love to hear from old friends.
To Pat Hardy< yes Leonard is my oldest brother. He is a doctor now living in Australia and Malaysia.
I also have alot of old chester postcards. Go back to the same location when possible and take a picture of the site now.
Hello, I joined up for the Chester Chat room, and no one is in there ! C'mon people, lets' Chat !!!!
to David Babicki:::: i remember you well. you had a older sister judy and a older brother (jackie?). didn't your dad own the hardware store on 3rd street. you used to hang out with caroline and your sister used to hang around with diane. i remember hanging out with you and caroline on 3rd and townsend street when i was little. caroline and diane were my father's sisters. remember bob duke? he was my dad. they lived directly across the alley behind you. i remember the time when vince (aunt jeannie's son) threw a brick at caroline in your back yard. she tried to hide along side of your back steps but it still caught her in the forehead. that boy was always throwing bricks or rocks. i think the last time i seen you was at a friend of a friends party when i was 15 or 16 years old. on 6 th or 7th street off of hayes street. you had just gotten out of bootcamp. boy oh boy was that a long time ago. i now live in the mountains of pa, about 1 hour drive above harrisburg. i have 2 kids a boy and a girl. their 21 and 24 years old. neither are married. the only one that i keep in touch with in the duke family is my aunt jeannie. drop by some time and e-mail me if ya'd like to chat. great to see a name from the past on this web page. when chester was a nice place to grow up.
Finally had to check out this site. My husband,Dave has urged me to sign on and visit the past. My family settled in Chester through the efforts of Monsignor Klekotka from St Hedwig's church Lived on 2nd & Ward then moved to 218 Bunting st.(btwn)Hayes & Wilson St. Remember looking out my window and seeing the "ELECTRICITY IS CHEAP IN CHESTER" SIGN.In the mid 60's moved to 7th St. Spending many summers at memorial Park and hanging out with the 6th street gang from the "west End" . Spent most Sat and Sundays at the lyric theatre. Like to get on bus for a day in town shopping, going to the movies and eating at McCroy's.
Finally had to check out this site. My husband,Dave has urged me to sign on and visit the past. My family settled in Chester through the efforts of Monsignor Klekotka from St Hedwig's church Lived on 2nd & Ward then moved to 218 Bunting st.(btwn)Hayes & Wilson St. Remember looking out my window and seeing the "ELECTRICITY IS CHEAP IN CHESTER" SIGN.In the mid 60's moved to 7th St. Spending many summers at memorial Park and hanging out with the 6th street gang from the "west End" . Spent most Sat and Sundays at the lyric theatre. Like to get on bus for a day in town shopping, going to the movies and eating at McCroy's.
To: Bill McKay,
Hi Bill! It's been quite awhile since I've seen you. I guess the last time was when we were both working at Sun Oil back in the early 60's. Me as a guard and you in the plant. Glad to see your fine. My brother Ron, still keeps in touch with your brother Bobby. Bill Meyers and his wife Betty are going to be missed, even though they will just be in Florida for the winter months. They also have a summer place in Maryland. Take care of yourself.
Hey Evreybody, I messed up last time and I didn't get to say all I wanted to say. I am 15 years old and I Lived on White Street in Sun Village until I was 8. My parents are David and Janice Nichols and I was refered hear by my mom and aunt. They saw the newspaper article in the Daily Times. Even though we are not living in Chester anymore, my grandmother lives there and we visit her every Sunday. If Anybody reconizes me or my family, please email me. Thank You!
To: Mary Jane Birkofer,
If there is a "Krispy Kream" doughnut shop near you, give them a try. I think you might be pleased. I too love glazed doughnut's and they are the best I've had in a long time. I once worked at the Ches-Penn doughnut shop when they were on Welch St.
Hey Evreybody, I messed up last time and I didn't get to say all I wanted to say. I am 15 years old and I Lived on White Street in Sun Village until I was 8. My parents are David and Janice Nichols and I was refered hear by my mom and aunt. They saw the newspaper article in the Daily Times. Even though we are not living in Chester anymore, my grandmother lives there and we visit her every Sunday. If Anybody reconizes me or my family, please email me. Thank You!
To Paul Crowther, I now live in Brookhaven,still see some people from the old Gardens, Talk to Bill Meyers yesterday he's moving to Fla..
To Bill Locke Forgot all about that Christmas Tree in Market Square. I rember it now! Thanks! Don't believe anyone from Chester would hang on the crossing gates ! LOL
To Marie Kokoszka I went to Dewey-Mann with an Agnes Kokoszka. Any relation?
To Carman Iacono Those pictures look like they were taken on E.11th. St. Where they?
Hey there Bill McKay! I'm from Highland Gardens [1516 Perkins St. ] and I remember you! Good to see you here! Where are you living now?
TO: VINCE CACSIATO,......WEINBERGS BUILDING WAS OWNED BY A CHESTER POLITICIAN NAMED HARRY BIRNEY...BIRNEYS WAS NEXT DOOR .....
TO:VINCE CACSIATO:
Hi, all you Chesterites. I found out about this web site thru an old friend name of Tom Nicolaides. I was in the Wall Mart to buy a new American flag, anyway I was born on the west end and lived at 5th & Kerlin and went to ST. Anthony school. Then we moved to the east end and I went to Jefferies and Smedley Jr High. Who remembers Mr Joseph and Mr. Long? I graduated CHS in 54, seems like only a couple of years ago. Lots of good memories here. We have to hand it to John Bullock, what a job he did here. Thanks for the memories John.
Marie Borcky Kokoszka The names Borcky and Kokoszka(family of 10 that I knew). I grew up on Bunting St close to 3rd st. New walter "hogan" who also lived on Bunting St.He was a fireman at felton fire house among some of his tatoos had "HOGAN" on his arm. He had a daughter, Becky and a son Alan who I loved to babysit for. I went to St. Hedwig's and then to Notre Dame graduated in 1969. The Borcky name is familiar to me too. Used to hang out in highland gardens during my high school yrs Also spent a lot of time at Ginos on 9th st. If your husband was "hogan" so sorry to hear he's passed away
To Terry Owsiany McHugh
Are you related to Leonard Owsiany? I went to school with Leonard Owsiany. Was just wondering if you were related.
To Terry Owsiany McHugh
Are you any relation to Leonard Owsiany? I went to school with a Leonard Owsiany. I believe he was a year ahead of me. If he is the same person I went to school with he was the Drum Major for Chester High School Band in 1967. I was in the Class of 1968.
Hi to gpatterson. Yes, I remember Jimmy Patterson, Bobby Price, and I think it was Bobby? Jenkins. Sorry to say I don't remember you, or the other names you mentioned.Remember I am not as young as I used to be, and the old memory is a little faded.We lived on Gartside Ct., and our back windows faced the playground. Had a lot of fun there. Do you remember Bill Donnally, Eleanor Uleary? I remember Jenkins worked at a store right across from the project. Also walking to the Stanley Theater on Sunday afternoon. Also remember going to a birthday party at Bobby Price's house.
Does any one know where to get doughnuts like Ann's? Started out a Ches-Penn. Would die for just one more doughnut like the glaze & chocolate iced ones, cream filled too. Maybe someone could convince the former owners to share the reciepe with us or someone who would start a new business. Keep me posted, please.
Hi, I'm an ex Stoner. Born and raised in Eddystone [1924] go back a long way. Now live in Ridley Park, didn't get to far away from home. Love the website. Also fell in love with a Chester girl, Shirley Minshall of 4th and Yarnall. Married 47yrs. Would love to hear from any ex Stoners
This is my third try to get a message through. I grew up in the west end of Chester,Highland Gardens 1447 Highland Ave. This site brings back memories of many good times. Keep up the good work.
Grew up west end of Chester,Highland Gardens,1447 Highland ave. This web site brings back many good memories.Would to hear from any on that grew up in Highland Gardens.
Grew up west end of Chester,Highland Gardens,1447 Highland ave. This web site brings back many good memories.Would to hear from any on that grew up in Highland Gardens.
Hey everyone, i've gotten some emails that i have not been able to open, due to a virus. Mur513 emailed me about the milkman Larry, JROD4857 about Hey Rez Girl and Joan M about Chester. Would love to know what you all sent but can't open them. Post here if you can. thanks terry
Grew up on Highland Ave. 1447 Went to Clayton School,Dewey Mann and Chester High. This is a great web site. Would like to hear from any one who grew up in Highland Gardens.
Vince--Thanks for directions to Charlie's. Birney's had a lunch counter out front with a soper-fast counterman. He could do multple orders w/o writng them down.He'd crack two eggs at a time(one in each hand), make 6 or more different sandwiches, and serve a kid the best birch beer I've ever tasted. There were swinging doors to the Poolroom in back.My grandfather played pool there but they didn't like kids back there so I stayed out front and m marveled at the counterman. Thanks for the reminder of things past.
Dan,CHS 1954
Born 1923 and raised in Chester. Graduated CHS Jan 1941. During the war married my high school sweetheart Lou Souder while he was at Ft.Jackson S.C. He was sent to Europe and served in the 69th Infantry Division. I joined the WAC hoping to be sent to Europe but as the Army did things I was sent to the Pacific region for the duration. After the war Lou went to PMC and Univ of Delaware for his MS in Chemistry. He worked for Rohm and Haas for 31 years 11 of them in Europe where we lived in Switzerland, Italy and Germany. We have 5 children and 9 grandchildren. Now enjoying our retirement here in Ocean City NJ We found out about this great website during a recent visit to the old CHS building in Chester. A very nice lady in one of the offices told us about it. I forgot to mention that Doctor R.Loughead of Chester was my grandfather and my husband Lou Souder worked at Rae's Pharmacy while in high school and k new Mr. John Cooper well . I didn't know that John later worked at Bullock's Pharmacy.
Born 1923 and raised in Chester. Graduated CHS Jan 1941. During the war married my high school sweetheart Lou Souder while he was at Ft.Jackson S.C. He was sent to Europe and served in the 69th Infantry Division. I joined the WAC hoping to be sent to Europe but as the Army did things I was sent to the Pacific region for the duration. After the war Lou went to PMC and Univ of Delaware for his MS in Chemistry. He worked for Rohm and Haas for 31 years 11 of them in Europe where we lived in Switzerland, Italy and Germany. We have 5 children and 9 grandchildren. Now enjoying our retirement here in Ocean City NJ We found out about this great website during a recent visit to the old CHS building in Chester. A very nice lady in one of the offices told us about it. I forgot to mention that Doctor R.Loughead of Chester was my grandfather and my husband Lou Souder worked at Rae's Pharmacy while in high school and k new Mr. John Cooper well . I didn't know that John later worked at Bullock's Pharmacy.
Born 1923 and raised in Chester. Graduated CHS Jan 1941. During the war married my high school sweetheart Lou Souder while he was at Ft.Jackson S.C. He was sent to Europe and served in the 69th Infantry Division. I joined the WAC hoping to be sent to Europe but as the Army did things I was sent to the Pacific region for the duration. After the war Lou went to PMC and Univ of Delaware for his MS in Chemistry. He worked for Rohm and Haas for 31 years 11 of them in Europe where we lived in Switzerland, Italy and Germany. We have 5 children and 9 grandchildren. Now enjoying our retirement here in Ocean City NJ We found out about this great website during a recent visit to the old CHS building in Chester. A very nice lady in one of the offices told us about it. I forgot to mention that Doctor R.Loughead of Chester was my grandfather and my husband Lou Souder worked at Rae's Pharmacy while in high school and new Mr. John Cooper well . I didn't know that John later worked at Bullock's Pharmacy.
Born 1923 and raised in Chester. Graduated CHS Jan 1941. During the war married my high school sweetheart Lou Souder while he was at Ft.Jackson S.C. He was sent to Europe and served in the 69th Infantry Division. I joined the WAC hoping to be sent to Europe but as the Army did things I was sent to the Pacific region for the duration. After the war Lou went to PMC and Univ of Delaware for his MS in Chemistry. He worked for Rohm and Haas for 31 years 11 of them in Europe where we lived in Switzerland, Italy and Germany. We have 5 children and 9 grandchildren. Now enjoying our retirement here in Ocean City NJ We found out about this great website during a recent visit to the old CHS building in Chester. A very nice lady in one of the offices told us about it. I forgot to mention that Doctor R.Loughead of Chester was my grandfather and my husband Lou Souder worked at Rae's Pharmacy while in high school and new Mr. John Cooper well . I didn't know that John later worked at Bullock's Pharmacy.
Born 1923 and raised in Chester. Graduated CHS Jan 1941. During the war married my high school sweetheart Lou Souder while he was at Ft.Jackson S.C. He was sent to Europe and served in the 69th Infantry Division. I joined the WAC hoping to be sent to Europe but as the Army did things I was sent to the Pacific region for the duration. After the war Lou went to PMC and Univ of Delaware for his MS in Chemistry. He worked for Rohm and Haas for 31 years 11 of them in Europe where we lived in Switzerland, Italy and Germany. We have 5 children and 9 grandchildren. Now enjoying our retirement here in Ocean City NJ We found out about this great website during a recent visit to the old CHS building in Chester. A very nice lady in one of the offices told us about it. I forgot to mention that Doctor R.Loughead of Chester was my grandfather and my husband Lou Souder worked at Rae's Pharmacy while in high school and new Mr. John Cooper well . I didn't know that John later worked at Bullock's Pharmacy.
Vince--Thanks for the directions to Charlie's. Birney's had a lunch counter in front with a super-fast counterman. He could work on multiple orders at a time w/o writing them down.He'd crack two eggs at a time( one in each hand),slap together 5 or 6 differant sandwiches, and serve a kid the best birch beer I've ever tasted. There were swinging doors at the entrance to the Poolroom in the back. My grandfather played pool there but they didn't like kids back there so I used to stay out front and marvel at the counterman. Thanks for the reminder of times past.
Dan, CHS 1954
Vince--Thanks for the directions to Charlie's. Birney's had a lunch counter in front with a super-fast counterman. He could work on multiple orders at a time w/o writing them down.He'd crack two eggs at a time( one in each hand),slap together 5 or 6 differant sandwiches, and serve a kid the best birch beer I've ever tasted. There were swinging doors at the entrance to the Poolroom in the back. My grandfather played pool there but they didn't like kids back there so I used to stay out front and marvel at the counterman. Thanks for the reminder of times past.
Dan, CHS 1954
I'VE BEEN READING ALL THE COMMENTS HERE ABOUT CHRISTMAS AT STOTTERS BUT NO ONE HAS MENTIONED THE CHRISTMAS TREE IN THE MIDDLE OF MARKET SQUARE.AND WHO COULD FORGET WHEN YOU HAD TO WAIT FOR THE TRAIN TO PASS ON 12TH STREET AND HANGING ON THE GATES TILL YOU HAD TO DROP,WITH THE RR GUY IN THE TOWER YELLING AT YOU
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WHAT A GREAT WEBSITE. I AM TO YOUNG TO REMEBER MUCH BUT MT FATHER GREW UP AT 525 PENN ST. HIS NAME WAS NICHALOS J CANZNAESE HE DIED IN 1996. I REMEBER HIM TELLING ME STORIES ABOUT CHESTER. WHAT A GREAT CITY IT WAS. I REMEBER SPEARS DEPT STORE ,THE GREAT LEOPARD SKATING RINK. ANY BODY WHO HAS ANY STORIES ABOUT MY FATHER OR ANY OF HIS FAMILY PLEASE SEND THEM TO ME
WHAT A GREAT WEBSITE. I AM TO YOUNG TO REMEBER MUCH BUT MT FATHER GREW UP AT 525 PENN ST. HIS NAME WAS NICHALOS J CANZNAESE HE DIED IN 1996. I REMEBER HIM TELLING ME STORIES ABOUT CHESTER. WHAT A GREAT CITY IT WAS. I REMEBER SPEARS DEPT STORE ,THE GREAT LEOPARD SKATING RINK. ANY BODY WHO HAS ANY STORIES ABOUT MY FATHER OR ANY OF HIS FAMILY PLEASE SEND THEM TO ME
To Marie Kokoszka
You must have lived close to where Dr. Robbins had his office. He was at the corner of Swarts St. & highland. Later he moved. Also in the same area lived Johnny Baxter,Bill Myers.Joe Pretti,Mary ann Boyd .Can't think of others at the moment. I know how you feel about knocking on the door and asking if you can look out the window at your old home. My Grandmother lived at 1127 Walnut St. and I spent a lot of time there. Many times I wanted to stop and ask if I could sit on the porch for a while.It would be like stopping the world from turning for a few minutes.
To Dr. Smith Do you know if the Smith Family also operated the Newstand on 6th. St.? I thought the owners name was Smith. I used to sell scratch sheets for him to people lined up on Flower St. waiting for the Ferry to take them to the race track in Jersey. A nice man. Good to me!
Born in chester 1938. Grew up in Woodlyn.O.L.P Elementy & St.James,Class of 56. Does anybody remeber a store a couple doors from weinbergs called Bernies. Roast beef sandwichs & Birtch Beer. Dad would always take me there when Mom was shopping. Friday nite danchs at St.Mikes. Met my Future Wife there. My wifes uncle was John LaSpada. Him & my father-in-law Ernie Caccia operated LaSpadas Original Hoagie shop in Parkside. I remeber as a youngster I liked going to the movies. I think that was because they were the only buildings with AIR CONDITIONING. My Mom grew up on Bromall St. Two hundred block I think. There was someone in the archives that was looking for Charlies Hamberger. It is located on Amasland road east of kedron ave in Folsom Across from Ridley Township Swim Club. I was there in July For a Wedding and thats the first place I went after picking up the rental car. 3 Cheese,onion & Pickles. They are still GREAT.
My parents were the owners of the Newstand at 7th Street, for 18 years, until approximately until 1958. I will be a regular visitor of your site. Keep up the good work.
Well, I was refered here by my brother Carmen, and I also played on Sun village Little league them and can confirm Carmen wore No 12 and as I recall there never was a 13, all team uniforms were numered 1 to 12 and each team had only 12 players on it.
I am extremely impressed with the overall quality and participation of past, present and want to be Chester'ites'. I now live in Colorado and I am always interested in revisiting home.
The last time I was back(June this year) I was suprised to see the state that the majority of the City has fallen into. It is so wonderful to see my childhood memories here in everyones thoughts and Pictures.
THANKS TO EVERYONE.. Mike Iacono St James, class 1971
Jane Ayers Mc Grath,I too lived in the Penn Project when it was first built and it was a nice place to live.My family lived there from my best recollection from 1942 to 1949.I also think I remember you as a childhood friend of my brother Jim and I.Some names in our circle of friends that you may recall are Armstrong, Davidson,Jenkins,Price, Suda,Camel, Cornet and Asenavage.If I recall correctly after all these years you lived on the end near a little store run by the Savage family.We lived at Grouncil Court.
Both of my parents are from Chester. The Reist and Borcky Families. I went to Rez, then to Notre Dame and graduated in 1969. I remember going to "town" on the bus and getting a hot dog form John's. ( I still do!). I grew up at 14th and Highland across from McCafferty Village. My parents have both passed away; my Mother Becky Borcky in 1996 and my Father David Borcky in 1999. I would love knock on the house at 1411 and ask the tenants if I could just look out of my Mom's kitchen window and look across the street and be able to look at all the way to the ball field. I moved out of Chester in 1997 to Upland. I just lost my husband, Walt "Hogan" Kokoszka, who was a Chester Firefighter in March of this year. He also grew up in Chester. We have a daughter, Lauren who went to Rez, St. Hedwig's, then to Saint Katherine Drexel. I have a lot of memories since both of my parents grew up there, too. We had five children in our family, David, Jimmy, Ann and Becky.
Hello from Hickory, N.C. Been living in North Carolina for 7 yrs. now and forgot about how it used to be. Chester has realy changed. When I got on to this web site it brought back a lot of memories. I went to St. Hedwig and than Notre Dame. graduated class of 68. Lived in the west end, then the east end of chester then moved to Delaware. 7yrs. ago we moved to Hickory, North Carolina and I would kill for a hoagie, without balogni or mayonaise on it, like they make them here. I sit here and listen to you all talk about hoagies, cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, real Italian water ices the things that I was brought up on and yes I get home sick. That is when I can realy look back and say I miss Chester.
To: Sheree McGowan
Regarding maps, go to the search area in your computer, type "maps", click on "search" and you will be given many locations for maps - or - type www.maps.com in your "Address" block on your toolbar - you'll have your pick - until you get to the state, city, and finally a street address - all at your finger tips. Have fun!
Went to the chat room but no one was home......lol
Chester Chat Room !!!
http://communities.msn.com/ChesterChat/_whatsnew.msnw
Hey Linda Garvey!! you wouldn't be the same Linda Garvey of the shaved eye brown fame would you?? what fun the west end was during the 60's. my email is down now but i will catch up with you later.
In case nobody has seen the posting by George, there is a Chester Chat Room, a chance to talk "live" to one another about places, memories, people and whatever. I visited today, and got to chat with some very nice people, of course they are from Chester!!! A great site. Easy to use, easy to access. Hope to see some people there.
Sheree
To Sheree McGowan
Pulaski Drive was in McCafferty Village. Sorry,I can't help you with a map. I have one from the 1920's though!
O.K. I have a stupid question.....I grew up in Chester, Pulaski Drive. Was this McCafferty of Buckman Village. Also, would anybody know where/how I can get a city street map. Being I have been so long away, I can't remember where alot of stuff was. (that happens as I/we get older...ouch!)
Sheree
grew up in Chester, attended St. Roberts and St James RC high School. Parents lived on East 21th street-- Later on Providence Avenue. Worked at ScallanFloweres until I received my draft notice. Enlisted in Air Force and have been back briefly to visit family.
Yes I remember the Kuhlman family, are you a Kuhlman
Hi, I was born and raised in Chester. Remember many good things. Went to Morton, Franklin, grade schools. Also Smedley, and graduated Chester High, class of 1954.I also lived in the William Penn Project when it was quite nice.
Hello all. Does anyone know what church in Philadelphia the Rev. H. E. Gilroy, 1866-1869 at Upland Methodist Church, was with in 1848?
Tina
PS, Paul, I saw you sent me an email but haven't opened it yet. Are you moving???
Great Web Site Don't know John Bullock but he did a terrific job, especially with the pictures. I could place myself in just about every one, from Chester High to Sun Ship; 7th street News Stand; Chester Park;etc. etc. Had some great basketball games at the "Old Y".
Paul: 6am? Like 4am mountain time? Darn, and I was expecting a good crowd too! Anyway don't get too excited about your new position. You're new job responsibilities include putting the chairs on the tables and cleaning up the room after everyone has left for the night. See ya there later, George
I remember the dishes the theaters gave out. My grandmother made me go in her place and collect those dishes for her. She didn't send me to one theater she sent me to three of them. For a few months I was in movie-heaven then as time went on it became movie-hell. She made me stay and see the show because she didn't want to waste the 13 cents admission. I saw the same movies multiple times.
As for Chester ... I'm from Highland Gardens and it was always "downtown" or "uptown" depending on who you were talking to.
Great Web Site Don't know John Bullock but he did a terrific job, especially with the pictures. I could place myself in just about every one, from Chester High to Sun Ship; 7th street News Stand;
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Morning George!
Stopped by the Chat Room this morning about 6AM. No one up yet! Thanks for the Asst. Mgrs. position! Quite a surprise.
http://communities.msn.com/ChesterChat/_whatsnew.msnw
Stop by for some "Chester Chat"
To All: Just to let you all know that the chat room is up and running and so far, so good! John Bullock stopped by, along with Paul, Mari and Boomer. Not bad for the first day. Scroll down for the earlier instructions or try your luck directly at the chat room at http://communities.msn.com/ChesterChat/chat
To Diane: I sure do remember the dinner ware that the Lyric gave away, I believe it was on Tuesday Nights. Everyone in the neighborhood had the same place settings. George
Hey Everybody, My Name is Sean Nichols.Even though I am only 15 years old I was born in Chester and lived thereuntil I was 8 years old.
Oops, that was cool. Paul, where were ya, had a real nice chat with John B. He said to tell ya hi, had to go, George P.
TO TERRY McHUGH
I haven't forgotten that I offered my opinion about the reasons for the exodus from Chester. Your letter was excellent and covered everything quite well. As soon as I have some more time I'd like to expand on a couple of things and add a couple. Hey George! I left out the middle initial! LOL
What a wonderful website!!! Brings back a lot of good memories!!
Does anyone out there remember when the Lyric gave our china when you went to the movies? My grandmom collected quite a few pieces or else she made her friends give her theirs! She had loads of china, probably service for 16! It's off white with gold trim and has a colonial man and lady sitting under a tree. Grandmom lived around 6th and Wilson.
I learned about your site a few days ago after a relative gave me a copy of the recent Daily Times article to read. WOW! What a great site. Having lived in the West End of Chester, I graduated from Dewey Mann in 1953, then CHS in 1957. After serving in the military I returned to Chester, moving to Delaware in 1968.
Thanks for the memories
Hi Dianne! I think the word you're looking for is CONSTABULARY. It was a body of Constables. Fairly responsible position. The Drug Store you're talking about may have been Whalen''s. Was it near the train station? I suppose what a person called the shopping section of the City depended on where you lived. We called it"over town" from my area.[ Highland Gardens]
Mary Lee McCoog, Notre Dame '61. Tried to respond but can't get through at your E-mail address, maxmax7343@hotmail.com. If you remember me, send an E-Mail to chat.
Helen
I was visiting my mom when she showed me the article in the Daily Times about Chester. We saw your name John Bullock III at the bottom and she remembers working for your father John Bullock at the drug store in her younger years. She was Ella Margaret Lemke at the time. Her father worked at Aberfoyle and in later years she worked for Balwin Locomotive. Do you have any information on Gray's garage in Chester that burned down not too long ago? Or the Oyster Shack behind the Newstand? This has been really great for my mom, brought back a lot of memories and has been great in recreating some of the past for posterity. Thanks again and keep up the good work!
HI,
I KNOW I ASKED THIS BEFORE BUT MISPELLED THE WORD. MY GRANDFATHER YEARS AGO WAS A CASTABULERY (SP) SOMETHING HAVING TO DO WITH A POLICE ORGANIZATION, COUNTY POLICE, MOTOR CYCLE CASTABULERY. ANYONE WITH INFORMATION REMEMBER THIS, PLEASE LET ME KNOW. I ALSO AS A CHILD WOULD GO TO CHESTER WITH MY MOM MOM, WE WOULD TAKE THE BUS AND SHE ALWAYS SAID UPTOWN, THAT IS WHAT WE REFERRED CHESTER TO AS UPTOWN, ANYONE ELSE REFERRED CHESTER TO THIS? I WOULD ALSO EAT LUNCH IN A DRUGSTORE, THEY HAD THE BEST TURKEY CLUBS, BUT CAN'T REMEMBER THE NAME OF THE DRUG STORE, WELL, ALL HAVE A GOOD DAY
DIANE
I knew I'd love this site. I have already heard from five people because of it. The best one I heard from was Char Yoder. My trampoline companion (with Joe Green and Hugh McDonough) during half times of basketball games. What a great way to find people and to get back in touch. Thanks all.
I RMEMBER WHEN CHESTER 'DOWNTOWN' WAS DECORATED FOR CHRISTMAS AND WE WOULD WAIT WITH GREAT ANTICIPATION TO SEE THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS THAT WERE STRUNG ACROSS EDGMONT AVE TO BE LIGHTED. IT WAS OUR TRADITION TO WALK TO TOWN ( A MERE BLOCK) AND SEE THE LIGHTS ON THANKSGIVING NIGHT! AS YOU REMEMBER THE LIGHTS WERE NOT LIGHTED UNTIL THAT NIGHT TO OFFICIALLY START THE CHRISTMAS SEASON. AND REMEMVER WHEN CHRISTMAS CLUB CHECKS WERE MAILED THAT WEEK?? A FAR CRY FROM TODAY WHEN WE SEE DECORATIONS IN STORES BEFORE HALLOWEEN!
Will chsclassof54 please complete your e-maill address. You mentioned knowing someone named Flea and I did also would love to hear from you and see if they are one and the same.
To Dot Wood Ferrari, I lived on W.23rd St. Remember David from 1st Pres. Church. I graduated in 48. Spent many a day fishing in Chester Park. Tell Dave I said hello.
If anyone is interested,after a discussion with Paul. I experimented with starting a chat room for us. It is free and the software can be downloaded for free also. It is on MSN and you will have to register with MSN at http://www.msn.com. You need a passport and an email account from them (also free) Once you are setup with MSN you can access the chat room quite easily by going to http://communities.msn.com/ChesterChat/chat It might be fun and then again it might be a dud but at least we'll find out. Regards, George
Dave Schulthise: Sure do Dave, He was the oldest, I was the youngest. You lived next door I believe a little before my time, am I correct? Where and are you still in Communications? George
Geo.Malick Do you have a brother John P Malick ? Rez 1940
I'm having a hard time pulling myself away from the screen. Thank you so much for this site. About Sam Bell. He lived in that beatiful old house at 24th and Upland. His son, State Senator Tad Bell, continued to live there but I don't know if he still does. Sam Bell,Jr. ran the business
Hi John My husband and you were related. George Johnson. Can you send me when you have time, how the Johnson's and the Bullocks are related. You are doing a great job.
Realy a great website brings back a lot of great memories from the early 1930s on.I went to Martin School,and lived on west 15th st.,acrossed from Crozer Hosp. We moved to Garden City in 1942. Went to Nether Prov. schools. Worked at Scott Paper for 40+ years I married Mary Mattera in 1954. We had 4 Kids. We lived in Concord Township most of ower married life. I retired 1990, and moved to central Pa., where we live now with owr 11 year old Granddaughter I really loved growing up around the Chester aera, but I could never move back to all the crowds and traffic. I would like to hear from some of the {OLD} gang from the project.Moe King H. Huff Dave Lock,ect. ect. Bill Tonge
I am having more trouble getting my message on. Can't be my fault and I know it isn't John's fault - must be something wrong with my computer. First part of my message evidently never got on. Either that or you are going to read my message twice. I haven't put anythng on this site for quite a long time but check in every once in a while. I lived on Mowry St. which was up by Chester Park and have not seen much from people who lived at that end of town or that are my age. Graduated from Chester High in 1945. When I was a teenager, we walked everywhere we went. Remember going to a prom at Chester High and we (three couples) walked over to town and rode the bus home. Having three grandchildren now, I know they wouldn't think of doing that. When I was cut off, I was saying that my brother, David, and I found out about this site while talking to Marion at the cemetery office when we were looking for the site of my great Grandfather Chadwick who was a soldier in the Civil War and buried in Solider's circle. If you have never seen the circle and the memorials that are located in the center of the circle, it is well worth the visit.
Got cut off somehow before I finished my message. Just wanted to add that you can get a lot of information by calling the cemetery.Lets hear from more people my age. Dot
Paul: I just sent you and email, hope you get it. Just wanted to apologize for any misunderatanding, Like I said, we Chesterites have a tendency to "shoot from the hip" and sometimes hit a nerve, sure didn't mean to. I too check in at least once a day to read some of the interesting comments made here. It is nice to find and look for old friends and aquaintences. Some of the comments really jog the memory. Please don't go "anonymous". That would take all the fun out of it. Just to reitterate, the Software and Services for a chat room are all free and might be interesting. Regards, George
Does anyone remember (or know where someone could access) info about a fraternal group called the Red Men? Anyone else out there who had a relative involved in that organization? In my gg grandfather's obituary (1901). Red Men are mentioned in the text of the obit.
"The cortege proceeded to Chester Rural Cemetery, where interment was made. The Red Men, of which deceased was a member, having charge of the services at the grave. The floral tributes were very beautiful consisting of a bouquet of 83 carnations, pillow with "Father" on it. Palm leaves with "Husband" on them and a star and crescent. The pall bearers were; Jas. T. Gill, George M. Gilbert, William McVey, Timothy C. Lane, James Johnson and William Klee."
Tina Cupatea712@hotmail.com
What a great web site!! My niece passed this along to me & I have shared it with other Chesterites. We all have such great memories of living in Chester. I grew up in Highland Gardens, lived there until I was married. Visit this web site frequently and share so many of the memories listed. Yes, I remember Larry the milkman and Ted with his red truck-'Hey Mom, Here's Ted'. I didn't move too far from Chester and when people find out that's where you are from, they tend to look down on you. It's funny the way we still defend Chester to this day with great ferocity!! When people hear me & other west-enders talk about running behind the bug sprayer truck and blocking up the sewers when it rained to go swimming, they look at us as if we're nuts. We just get to laughing and say you had to be there. My family lived there until 1984, when it was no longer safe for my mother & sister to be there alone. Her house was robbed, bricks thrown in her windows, and daily riots on the street. There was no longer any support from the police and the decision to move was heartbreaking for my mom. True chesterites 'never forget where they come from'and when they do, we tend to remind them. It was a great place to grow up in & the memories will always be with us. No one can take that away.
Just found out about Old Chester and want to say what a great way to reflect back to the good old days. Grew up on 3rd and Townsend, went to St. Hedwigs and St. James and then left for an Air Force Career in November of 1965. Have many memories of the old dances at St. James, Chichester, and running between Aston, Boothwyn, Chester Pike, and MacDade Blvd. Wore out may tires traveling 9th street and Highland Ave. Now living in Montgomery Alabama after retiring from the Air Force in 1991. Hope get in touch with some old friends who may see this response. This is one web site I'll be checking out daily.
TO CARMAN IACONO
You must be Carman Jr.? I remember your Grandparents at 419 E. 11th. I think you must have lived at 423. If so,you were pretty young when I visited the neighborhood. My best friend Harry Schlipf lived at 421. This was about the mid 50's. Think you have an Uncle Vince. Vince married Betty Wiley who was a good friend of Harry's sister.Last I heard they were living in Delaware. My friend Harry was killed quite a while ago. He was in a bar on [think 15th. St.]as a customer when it was held up. He apparently didn't respond to orders fast enough. He was killed in cold blood by a shotgun blast. Things like this I can sure remember. Well,Ive spouted off enough! If i'm right about Vince say hello to him for me.
Paul
I also think I should proof read my letters. Lots of spelling errors in previous!
To George Malik
George,after I wrote that I realized what you meant. That is a good idea. I think the software for it is pretty expensive though.I don't mean to monopolize the messages here. I get pretty excited reading everything and my natural impulse is to respond.So many memories[good and bad] are flashed back. Anyway I'll be oll line for a while,so you won't see my name. Maybe when I come back I'll post "anonomously" Stay out of trouble that way. My apologies for misunderstanding your message. My weird sense of humor has gotten me in trouble lots of times! My motto is"if you can't have fun,why get out of bed" The trick is to not be misunderstood. It's much easier in a face to face conversation!
Take care,
Paul
No Paul, this is YOUR chat room. In reality it is the "Chester Community Bulletin Board" I was thinking more of the 2001 version of a chat room. One where a group of nice folks such as these could meet and have immediate comments and replies, often referred to as chatting. Sorry you misunderstood me. George
hi out their ,anyone remember Immaculate heart at 2nd and norris st class of 1955 looking for girls to e-mail about old times
I read the article in the Daily Times and later shared some of the memories with my mother and father-in-law. We took a stroll down memory lane and we all thoroughly enjoyed it. There were a few things we did not remember: the Lyric movie theater. We remember the Boyd, Stanley and Washington. Thnak you for making this all possible. I think many people will be interested to see this website.
What a great site. My sister E-Mail me this page a few weeks ago & been checking it every day since. What Memories & reading everyones mail. This is great. I was born (1954)& raised in the west end, grew up on 3rd & townsand & later moved to 2nd & highland. (Refering to the Babicki grocery store, that was my uncle & Fat Boys on 4th & Palmer was also my Uncle & Aunt). I went to St.Hedwigs, Pulaski Jr. & Chester High. Left Chester at 17 & joined the U.S. Marine Corps & retired after 22 years. Now reside in Havelock, NC but visit regulary as my mother still lives in Chester. Was recently there 2 months ago for a freinds wedding & had a great time. Spent a lot of time hanging on 3rd & Highland during my younger years & have many memories. If you remember & were there during the 60's give me a e-mail.
Paul Your right that was My Grandfathers business at 419 E 11th I'm in the process of getting some old pictures from My Parents and Aunts and Uncles so I can send them to this web-site.The name of the Business was "Sam Iacono and Sons". My Uncles and My Dad all worked on the truck at one time or another.
TO GEORGE MALIK
Welcome to the Chester Chat Room! This is it!
i'm happy to see chester is alive and well keep up the good work
George Malick......that is a great idea. A Chester Chat Room.
I go back pretty far but I would love to hear from anyone. I worked for Sun co. from 1943 to 1973. Those were the good old days. My brother-in-law and sister,Harry and Elsie Marin, ran the GateWAy Inn.
This may be a dumb question but has anybody thought of having a Chester Chat Room?
To Lorraine Ranalli---Are you the same Lorraine Ranalli whose voice I hear at 6:oo o'clock in the morning on The Big Talker radio station WPHT? I'm a former Chester resident, but now live in Parkside. This site brings back a lot of fond memories!
Hi. I discovered this web sight while reading the Delco Times last weekend. I felt as though I had opened a huge present at Xmas time. I think the website is great. John Bullock deserves a a million thanks . I was born and raised (reared) in south Chester. Graduated from Chester High in 1952 and joined the navy. Stayed there for twenty years. Living now in Arizona. I was last in Chester for the Class Reunion 1997. I am into geneology and hope some of your readers can help with information on Locke, Watts family names. Keep up the good work.
TO MARY LARNER
Sorry,but at the moment I'm unable to locate the book that I mentioned to you. I'm just beginning to pack for a move. In the meantime,tell your co-workers that one of the old geezers from Chester said that there was such a burial ground right where you said it was. It also looked exactly as you described. If they need further proof,check deep into this site. Reference is made to it. I remember reading it.
What a GREAT Web Site!!!! Keep up the good work!!! I grew up in Highland Gardens but now live in South Dakota. I'll probably visit this site again ... SOON!!!
To: Bob Reimschussel Do you remember the "Kuhlman Family" that lived on Lehman Street in highlands Gradens when you lived there?
Bill Crowther Jr and Paul Crowther
John wants to know if you guys would like to go back to NYC again if you were able. Also Bill Connie wants you to come back to work at the welcome wagon. Ha HA. I've been unable to get your brother to get on line, maybe you could convince him.
Hi John! Was introduced to your site by other Chesterites. Want you to know I was well acquainted with your Dad and Mom. I attend Christ United Methodist Church, and your Dad was on the Staff/Parish Committee with me. Your parents lived their christian beliefs and were a role model for many of us. I think I may have some old pictures of Chester. My grandfather, Harry Robinson was Chief of Police. I am going to look them up and send them off to you. Keep up the good work.
To: Tom and Nancy (Bernero) Smith This is a great site, look at my entry of 7/10/01 Its fun to find someone you know on this web site especially a relative. Still looking for classmates that went to Jefferies 1956 through 1962.
To the anonymous person who suggested adding adding bars and taverns to the site. They are already there! Click on business and you'll find them. If you're thoroughly familiar with all of them ie decor,seating capacity,owners, dates of operation,location please offer the info.! Would also be interesting to know at what point of intoxication did they throw you out?
This is to Shirley Clineff. Shirley, do you rememder me? Lorraine was my first sweetheart when you used to live on Yarnall Street. I had a brother that you might remember. His name was Robert(Bob) Minshall. We live right on the corner of 4th.& Yarnall.
Hey! Anybody out there from the class of '54' at Dewey Mann? I used to live on 3rd. street, across the street from Mauger's drug store, in the west-end. Then we move to 4th. and Yarnall, the corner house.(2000 west 4th. street)
TO MARY LARNER: The old cemetery at 6th and Market was not a figment of your imagination. Please scroll down about 90 posts or so to my Aug. 18 post about the cemetery. I remember it well.
Great WEB Site
To Bob Reimschussel
Hi Bob! You forgot to mention that you were a deckhand on the good old Chester-Bridgeport Ferry too! P.S. I still remember your gorgeous 1955 Ford Crown Victoria!
Paul
John - absolutely great website - I make it my daily visit every day. But can you or someone visiting this site clear up the discussion we are having at work about the cemetary that was in Chester on Sproul/Market street between 6th and 6th street that was eventally relocated to 3rd and Market Sts. I vaguely remember it from the Market Street side - next to Lincoln Store - I remember the stone wall - wrought iron railing and the backs of the grave stones. Please don't tell me it was a figment of my imagination. Any help in this is greatly appreciated. And of course, I will win the discussion at work. :)
I Moved to Chester in June 1945 with my family. Father Robert, Mother Margaret, and Sister Carol. Carol's last name now is Shadwell. Lived at 2730 Forward Street (Highland Gardens)from 1945 untill 1965. Moved to Claymont De. Went to Chester High Class of "53". Worked for General Motors 45 1/2 years and retired June 2000. Married 28 years to Jean (Hamilton). Three children, Darlene 26 married (Ogden), David 24 engadged to married next June, and Dawn 18 second year Collage.
Thank you for all your work and foresight. Jimmy Linn was one of the D.J.s on WVCH and was very influential in the early success of the Four Aces by repeating their records over and over.
maybe we should add a section on bars and taverns in the city!!!
{Editor's note: Click here for Bars]
Hi Joanne! I remember the Great Leopard skating rink quite well. Went there quite a bit on Saturdays. Also remember Stotters Dept. store at 3rd.& Market. I think it was the first time I ever saw Santa. Don't recall any"stinky" pigs though![grin] Going to Stotters back then would be like a child today going to Disneyworld! Boy ,do I remember Commission Row! My Great Uncle Fred worked there! He was right there where they slaughtered the chickens. One day when I was there a couple of headless chickens jumped out of the funnel they put them in to drain. They were running around on the floor. Never went back! So,all I had to do for a date was stand on the corner at Sears? Wow,I was in the wrong place! Actually ,standing on that corner was an age old custom. My Grandfather used to do it! Must have been a good vantage point! Many an hour was spent there just to get a glimpse of an ankle! Jess,I also miss the Hoagies! They make a poor excuse for one where I live! Tom& Jack,Thanks for the refresher course in geography! Paul
HI,
AFTER BROWSING THROUGH THIS WEBSITE, I HAVE TALKED TO MANY PEOPLE, A FEW PEOPLE HAVE ASKED ME TO LOOK UP SEVERAL THINGS FOR THEM, I HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO LOCATE ANYTHING ON THEM. IF ANYONE KNOWS ABOUT THIS INFORMATION PLEASE E MAIL ME, THE CHESTER STREET RAILWAY, SOLDIERS CIRCLE OF THE CIVIL WAR IN CHESTER RURAL CEMETARY, AND THE WASHINGTON HOUSE THEATER AND RESTAURANT. FROM WHAT I UNDERSTAND THE CHESTER STREET RAILWAY WAS BACK IN 1905. MAYBE I AM OVERLOOKING SOMETHING. IF ANYONE HAS INFORMATION ON ANY OF THESE, PLEASE E MAIL ME. THANK YOU. ALSO I JUST FOUND OUT THAT MY GRANDFATHER WAS A CASTALUELATORIES (SP) MOTOR CYCLE POLICE I BELIEVE IT WAS A POLICE ORGANIZATION. IF I HAVE THIS CORRECT, ANYONE KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT THIS IN CHESTER?
WHAT A GREAT SITE!!!!
Re Mary Street I believe it ran east & west but not straight through. Wasn`t there a block or 2 runing west between 2nd & 3rd starting at Franklin St? Stackis oringnal shop was 0n the corner of Mary and Franklin back in47 & 48 when I went to Franklin School
To Dave Schultize, Were you related to a Pete Schultize from Trainer?
HI JOHN, YES YOU ARE CORRECT, HIGH BALL WAS AT 10TH AND UPLAND STS, TONI EMMI HAS IT NOW , I THINK IT IS CALLED MOM'S DELI....
Born (1955) and raised (1966) in Chester. Grew up on Pulaski Drive. My Mom was Joan Austin, grandmother Florence Pollock. Chester must have been a memorable place to live back then because looking at all the posting everyone seems to have the same memories. What about the little league games near Wm. Penn. I remember buying that great penny candy from the concession stand. Our halloween parades from school through the neighborhoods. Those great neighborhood stores. Going to Boothwyn to E&M for GREAT hoagies, swimming at Trainer pool each summer.
John I owe you some pictures from my Mom's yearbood....shame on me for taking so long. May find some other treasuers to send.
To Paul Crowther and William C Lewis....regarding Mary Street, my dad owned the original Victory lunch restaurant on Market Street. The restaurant was right across from Mary Street.This was in the late 30's and up to the late 40's. If my memory serves me, Davis' restaurant was across the street and Oppenheimers' market was next door. Tom Nicolaides (CHS 1954)
check daily times 8-21-2001all about all about del. ctys in usa
I was born and brought up in Chester, but now live in Massachusetts. I am a Navy veteran. My sister told me about this web site and I am spending lots of time on it. I lived on 23rd St. and also l4th and Kerlin. Spent lots of time hanging around Clark's Store on Taylor Terrace area. I sure miss the Hoagies. This sure has brought back many memories. I do visit family often and am always amazed at the changes in the City. So much has been lost.
Hi all does anyone remember the Great Leopard shopping and roller skating on the second floor. i also remember stotters at christmas the had the three little pigs there for story time they really stunk. i went to St Anthonys School and every saturday my mother made me go to medfords and comission row with the nuns to get chickens and at medfords they slautered the pigs what a thrilling day. just kidding these are memories. And also on friday night going past spears where the boys hung out you could get a date maybe from from one of them.I also remember St Anthonys Carnival oh boy what good food. i grew up in the william penn project way back in the 1940s later moved to 5th and penn street life in chester was really a lot of memories.
hello linda,,,,,we grew up in mcafertty village to ,,,,,maybe you know my sister karen ritzel?we were from ganster place.
I remember the Greyhound Bus Terminal and bowling alley. Barely remember what it looked like. Would like to see a picture of it too! I was one of those "pin setters" for a short period.[about 3 hours.] Dangerous job! My older Brother did it for a long time. I think we were paid something like 10 cents a game! I seem to remember a refreshment stand in there too. As a matter of fact,I took a Greyhound from there when I left Chester to go to New York City to live in 1962.
I'm not from Chester I only lived in SunVillage for a couple years. I am too young to really remember anything exept my mother coming to the Avenue of the States to buy her wigs, and how pretty it was decorated during the Chistmas season. I just wanted to say it's a great website, and it's so good to see someone showing something positive in Chester. There are too many people being Chester bashers instead of realizing how much history there is. Great job!
Some very interesting and long forgotten views of the city. I'll have to get out some of my old clippings and add them.
Hi Chesterites, This is the best web site for catching up with old friends and adding a part of the history of the city, keep it coming and wacth it grow.
Thanks John
Great Site! Jack is from St. James '51 and I'm from Chester High '54. It if fun to read the notes submitted by the wonderful people from Chester.
NO MENTION OF THE BEST DONUTS,ANNS DONUTS ON WELCH ST. OR THE BEST HOAGIES, STACKYS.OR WILLIAMS MARKET,I THINK HE WAS CALLED HI BALL,DOES ANYBODY REMEMBER HIM?? WAS THE STORE AT 10TH AND UPLAND???
[Editor's note: Click here for Williams' Market]
This website is a great source of pride to anyone with roots in our great city. Thanks for doing such a great job!
I haven't seen anything mentioned about the Grey Hound Terminal/Bowling Alley that was on 9th St. a block down from I believe the old newspaper building. It was owned and operated by a family named Shine. They had a son Maurice, if anyone has had contact with him please have him contact me. He was one of my best friends growing up our back yards were connected so we almost had no choice. Would love to see some pictures of the old terminal. I can still remember the smell of sawdust on the floors and alley, you know back when your ball was returned and the pins were set up by hand good old pin boys. Hope to hear from someone.
HELLO CHESTER WEB BROWSERS, MY FAMILY AND I GREW UP IN MCCAFFERTY VILLIAGE BETWEEN 61 UNTIL 77. MY FAMILY SHARES ALOT OF FOND MEMORIES OF THAT NEIGHBORHOOD. DANCES AT THE COMMUNITY BLDG., CHRISTMAS TREE BONFIRES,CORNER STORES,JOE'S, LESIK'S, MCGLONE'S,SADIE'S. THEY WERE THE BEST NEIGHBORHOOD STORES.COLLECTING SODA BOTTLES,PLAYING IN BUCKMAN CREEK,SWIMMING AT TRAINER SWIMCLUB WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT GROWING UP IN A HOUSING PROJECT WOULD BE SO MUCH FUN! LOVE TO HEAR FROM SOME 60'S ERA "PROJECTOR'S" AS WE WERE FONDLY CALLED.
Thanks for the memories John i graduated from chester high in 1955amd my husband graduated in 1953.
IS THERE ANYONE OUT THERE WHO REMEMBERS ANY MEMBERS OF THE CHESTER BAND (KEY-TONES)? THE LEADER OF THIS BAND WAS WALT DUNLAP OF CHESTER HIGH. WE PLAYED ON STEEL PEIR IN ATLANTIC CITY, MADE A SOLO RECORD (THAT ONLY OUR PARENTS BOUGHT), LOCAL DANCES, WEDDINGS AND DANCES. THE YEARS WERE 50-60
Chester holds lots of great memories. I look forward to seeing some old friends and new friends on here. It gave me a chance to talk to people I haven't seen in years. Thanks again John.
I have many happy memories growing up in Chester, going to Clayton, Horace and Dewey Mann Schools, then on to Chester High. i remember spending many nights at Honeysuckle and working at the Rexall Drug store. My best friend Shirley Judge Ruger worked at the Whelan Drug store and we would walk back to the high school for the dances after work or go to Laura's for a hamburger and shake. Shirley and I are still good friends. I see some of my classmates every once in while at the Courthouse where I work.(just visiting) I know that some of my Dewey Mann classmates meet every third Wednesday at the Meetinghouse Tavern. Some of the teachers attend every so often.
HI DONNA......REGARDING PEE WEE'S DINER....EMIELO DEVICO'S SON ANTHONY JUST OPENED A RESTAURANT IN THE WILLOW BROOK SHOPPING CENTER IN UPPER CHI....
HI DONNA........PEE WEE'S IN EDDYSTONE WAS OWNED BY EMIELO DEVICO AND HIS BROTHER ..... GREAT DINER.....ALL GOOD THINGS COME TO AN END
I am entering this information for my mother who is a graduate of Chester High, 1937. My mother still lives in PA. and I know she would love to hear from you. A friend, who is also a graduate of Chester High, called her to tell her about this site. The e-mail address is her daughter's and I live in Tucson, AZ. You can send your e-mail to me and I will call her.
Hello there, I just found the site just fooling around. to my surprise I found old chester pa, I really appreciate the site so much, I live in Chester and I've travel all around the world(Navy) and there still is nothing like home. it is nice to see what Chester use to look like in it's early days. People say I don't want to live in chester because there is nothing there, but there is a lot of history here. some of the things on the site I do remember, like the flood in Erie Park, the Hazmat fire at front& flower st.(I was born in 1968) the drug store on third and parker next to the laundry mat and the State Movie. I wish does day could come back once more. I think we as apeople should bring back our city to the way it was once before. yes we need more things for the children to do, but we as parents need to teach our children to respect other peoples property and clean up after ourselves. I do hope to see more picture on the real soon. Lamont Harris c/o 88 Lamont2086@aol.com
We are new to Chester. We have lived there now since 1993. We purchased the old Rankin home on 20th st and would be interested in pictures or information regarding the area. I am really impressed with this site and all the work that was done compiling all of the information
Great web-site, I lived on 3rd and Pennell, my father had a fish market called Ocean City Maryland Fish Market (Caratello)from 47 to 55. My family (Aunt and uncle) owned Mays water ice, on 2nd and parker,also Sonny May sold Christmas trees on 2nd and Ivy.I was born on 2nd and Ivy, went to St. Anthony school, and Chi-Chester,married and lived in Marcus Hook for 34 yrs now living in Chestertown, MD.
What a great site. I grew up in Chester,lived in Eyre Park, and attended St. Mike's and Notre Dame. It was a great place to grow up Does anyone remember St. Mike's dances.Had a lot of great times there. I am truly enjoying this site
Yes Donna,I remember the Diner! Someone I knew was killed right in front of it in a motorcycle accident I think it was around 1957-58 Her name was "Babs" Oliver.
Does anyone remember PeeWee's Diner on Chester Pike with the World's Famous Broasted Chicken?
Your web site is awesome!! My husband is trying to get in touch with relatives-Phil Verdenski or Edward Verdenski. Thank you for this great Web site.
Theresa Tobin Boyle
Oh Carmen - I was off by one. But it was still you! Thanks for writing! I really thought you were 13.
What a great site....My class was February 1938. Not too many of us left.I was born and raised in Sun Village. Went to Morton School,Larkin, Smedley then Chester High.I would like to hear from anybody that remembers me.I`ll vist every day. Thank you. Bob Blanton
To Jim Swanson. I remember your Dad. I can't remember his first name though. It seems to me he worked for Yellow Cab in the 1940's&50's. Also recall Johnny Swanson who worked for them. My Mother grew up with him. There was Johnny Gorman who drove for Bell Taxi. Jimmy Wrobleski,who owned the Chester Cab Co.Neatest dresser and the cleanest taxi's around. His office was on 6th. St. across from the P.R.R Station,next to the news stand. It was so small you almost had to go outside to turn around!
TO WILLIAM C. Lewis!
Hi Bill! I,m not in my 90's but catching up with you! Stretching my memory again,but I think my Mother lived on Mary St.in her early years. She just turned 86 last week. Her name was Lillie Adams. Wasn't Mary St. near 3rd.& Market?
To Carmen Iacono Talk about familiar names appearing here! Are you related to the Iacono's from East 11th. St.? If so,I would hazard a guess that your Grandfather was in the Ice business in Chester!
To the admirer of number 13 of the Sun Village Little League Team. Sorry but it was not Me who wore number 13,I wore number 12. Good Luck finding number 13.
Just entered the site. I was born and reared in Chester. I am a 1961 graduate of Chester High School. Currently, I am living in Houston, TX.
I was raised on Lomakin St. Moved to Franklin St. Attended Gartside then Franklin and on to CHS. When I entered High School Mr. Giles was the princiapl until his death.
Need to know about the Class of '61 Reunion! My genealogy interest: Surname Marshall
Hi former and present Chesterites! Sure am enjoying all the memories! Hi Paula Kennedy nice Chester Park memory.... Someone mentioned remembering Christmas at Stotter's Dept Store and picture being taken with Santa....I can't forget, still have the pictures! By the way, the 7th Street Newsstand is being remodeled; I took pictures and will send to John so he can update the site.
Hey bill shep the village are u the bill shep married to chris. well if u are email me.
To dave redden hi i tried to email u but it did not go through. I remember u i dont knew if u remember me but i lived on nith street between ginos and pick way i married bart johnson. He has two brothers billy and elmer. he hung around with bobby laird.well nice to have ran across the old chester site it was nice to read all the memories of were we grew up. well thats all for now.
I am 91 years old. I was born on Mary Street and attended Howell Sret School and Franklin School from 5th grade through 8th grade. I lived on 2nd and Pennell and then moved to 10th and Pennell. When I was 24 we moved to Manoa, Pa. I wonder if anyone reading this website knows me. Of course they would have to be in their 90's!
I forgot one of our other class mates from St Mike's '42 that we are looking for and that is Ruth Piper (or Pyper)
Fred from 7th and Crosby
Hi to all the chester people. I was born and raised in chester. Went to Ressurection school. Grew up on 9th street. Has anyone see the Macaferty village . it is no longer there they tore it down.I moved out of there about ten years ago but my parents still live there so i visit often. Well i just wanted to say hi to all my fellow home town people. So here is a big chester Hello.
I am really glad to get to see the site i found a long lost cousin dan mc Ginnis and an old boyfriend Ed Reczek plus other names from the past joanne McGinnis Walker
John, I would to tell you again what a grand web site you have.
The class of '42 from St. Michael's School is looking for some of our classmates to invite them to our 60th reunion sometime in October of 2002.
Those we are looking for are:
Mary Elizabet Walker John Mc Nulty Paul Charles Alice Greismeyer Alma Mahoney Dorothy Roades William and Betty Hamilton Jean Johnson
If you know any of them or where they might be living please send me an E-Mail. If you don't know where they are living but know who the GIRLS married let us know their married names. You may know their relatives or friends who could also help us.
Some of them went to Smedley and then to Chester High or some other High School.
Thank you for your help,
Fred Lenczynski from 7th and Crosby (back when)
Hi everyone! It's great to remember old Chester. We both went to St. Michael's (Helen class of 55 and Ray class of 56). Went to Notre Dame and St.James and both met a West Chester State in 1963. Married in 1967 at St. Roberts. Ray grew up in Sun Village and Eyre Park and Helen grew up on Spruce steet. Helen taught 1st grade at Stetser. Ray worked for IBM and retired in 1996. Living in Raleigh NC. Sure miss downtown shopping on Friday nights and diner at the Welsh Resturant. Sure could go for a John's hot dog!!!
Greetings from Anchorage, Alaska. My brother sent me this website. I was born and grew up in Chester, PA. I now live in Alaska, have lived here for fourteen years. I was recently in Chester, from July 18, - 31, 2001. I have many family members there. It is always a treat coming home to Chester. I have many fond memories of living in Chester. I graduated from Chester High School in 1967. I now have an undergraduate degree, magna cum laude, from Cheyney and a graduate degree from Bryn Mawr College. I will be moving back to the east coast, Pennsylvania, next year. Thank you for compiling this website. It highlights the many positive things about Chester. It was a great place to grow up.
John,
Many rears ago,(about 1970) I saw some unissued stock certificates from Chester. One was from the Union Railway Company and the other from the Chester Traction Company. Both of these were printed with the date "189_"
I think the Union Railway Company was the predecessor of the Chester Traction Company. I believe that Southern Penna. Bus Company followed the Chester Traction Company ( not sure what year; probably early 1930's.
Supposedly these stock certificates were in the archives of the Wilmington Coach Company, and were discarded when they closed (replaced by SEPTA) in the 1960's Southern Penn and Wilmington Coach were closely connected-I don't know if they were under a common ownership. Any information on the public transportation in Chester would be appreciated.
Who remembers when Chester had 4 bus companies supplying service to Chester?-PTC, Red Arrow, Short Line and Southern Penn.
Any reference to Edward J McBride, Upland, PA, married to Mary Bradley,also Upland in 1800's?
MORTON SCHOOL--JEFFREY SCHOOL--SMEDLEY JR. HIGH-- EDDYSTONE HIGH SCH.( 62 )FISHBURN MILITARY SCHOOL UNIV. OF TENN.( 69 ) WEST CHESTER UNIV. DO I HAVE ANY CLASSMATES OUT THERE ? DROP ME A LINE !!!
Memories of Chester Park. We were the dead end kids on Worrell St.I remember sledding in the sugar bowl and hunting for witches in the witches den. We played in the old barn and the farmhouse that was owned by Mr. and Mrs. Crystal. Then came progress and Houston St. was opened up. I remember dances in the old barn and concerts at the band shell. We ended our nights by going to Hall's for ice cream or sodas with cousin Kathy and Mary Lee and Irene. Sock hop at St. James and St. Robert's '57. They were fun times,innocent times that I will fondly rememeber.
Mairiam (sis Ruger)Martin, Do you remember me? We went to CHS together. I went around with Shirley Rostron. Hope to hear from you.
Jack Smith, I am not sure about you but I knew Pete Danos,Nick Iaacona and Dallas Hitchens I had some classes with them.
Hope to hear from you.
My sisters and I greww up in Chester @24th and Providence. My mother was the Crossing Guard at that intersection. My older sister and I have many wonderful memories about the old Chester from Speares and their wooded floors to the newstand and Whitehills. Creamcheese and jelly sandwiches at Laura's restaurNT AND THEN THEIR WAS THE yELLOW BOWL.
To Bill Connors daughter..Yes, Bill graduated with me from Immaculate Heart grammar school in 1937. His family lived at 7th & Lloyd. In later years,we met your mother. My husband remembers your grandfather from the Allied Chemical in Claymont.
I grew up in "Sun Hill" East End of Chester. Great Memories.
John, What a great idea and even better job of putting a web site together about Chester. I was born and raised in Chester, attended Resurrection, St.James and Chester High '63. (Go figure) I was asked to leave the fair city in 1968 by local draft board 61 and now live in Colorado but my heart remains in the West End where my Dad operated a Radio & TV service from 1923 til the early 60's. I don't get a chance to visit Chester as often as I used to, but when I do it brings a tear to my eye. This Website however, brings a smile and many fond memories of those days gone by. Kudos on a job well done. P.S. That sign may have said "What Chester Makes, Makes Chester" but many an old timer was heard to read it as "What Chester Makes, McClure takes" ...George
some may remember me as an Eddystone athlete but my roots were always from Chester. I attended Jeffrey school and smedley jr. high and lived in SUN village,those were the days congratulions on this web site,it is outstanding!! I will keep in touch from a distance as I live in NEW ORLEANS and still coach and teach down here in gator country .
HEY DEBBIE WILEY! I WAS HOPING YOU WOULD FIND THIS SITE SOMEDAY! HAVEN'T TALKED TO YOU SINCE "CLASSMATES"! GLAD YOU'RE HERE! PAUL
Betty Jo Marvel....Penn Steel was on Front and Penn. My Grandfather and his brother both worked there for years ago. There last name was Keeth. Some mentioned swimming at Chester Park. I remember that. Everyone took a blanket and picnic lunch and spent the day. Your money went pretty far in those days. Any one remember Pete's Hoagie Shop on 8th and Morton Ave?
I just found the site thanks to Mary. I saw Jody Pokoy's name. This is Jane's daughter from Worrell St. I went to Notre Dame and St. Robert's if anyone else is out there.
outstanding! magnificent! awesome! i have wanted to see chester history for a long time now.my friend marie and i try to remember what was where, and the name of this and that, and we sound like two senile old fools! but thanks to this website, we are clearing up. thank you so much for investing your time and effort in this invaluable task. i give a standing ovation to you JOHN! WELL DONE!MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS YOU RICHLY!
Just heard about this web site today 8/18/01,so have only seen very small amout of it. I was born and raised on 15th st and lived there until 1958.Just looking though some of the pages has brought back so many memories,especiality the one about Shoosters it brought tears to my eyes and heart. Can't wait to have time to go thought more of it.
This is the greatest what a whirlwind of memories. Really don't know where to start. Going over town on Saturday to the movies and after the Candy Kitchen for sundaes. Shopping in all the great stores Rodgers, Kinneys, Lee's, Spears and many more. going skating at the Great Leopard. And years before that at Christmas who could forget how great that holiday was in town. Do you remember going to Stotters to see Santa and then they always had a movie in the auditorium. The rides on the Wilson Liner. Always remember coming back from Philly on the train and seeing the sign What Chester Makes Makes Chester. I was always glad to get back home because I was proud of my city. Maybe this is why I'm still here after 58 years. Went to St. Roberts and on to Notre Dame, class of '61. Will never forget the sock dances at St. James. the band concerts at Chester Park, sledding down the cobble stone hill in the park, skating on the creek, getting water from the spring on the other side of the bridge. Hanging out in front of Hall's Ice Cream Parlor on Avon and Edgmont because that was were Chester ended and the rest of the world began. Yes I really enjoyed growing up here and wouldn't trade it for any other city, seems to me I'm not alone.
Grew up in Chester. Went to Larkin, Smedley and CHS. Graduated CHS in 1969. Worked my Jr & Senior years at L&H Sporting Goods Store. Remember shopping downtown, football/basketball games and the great "dancing" band that CHS was famous for. Nothing beats a hoagie and Herr's chips! Debbie
Does anyone remember Sam Bell he owned and rented all the houses around 14th and Edgemont my parents rented from him for yrs and yrsalso how about Penn Steele down on I think 3rd Str in Chester my Dad worked there for almost 30 yrs till it burned down.........this is such a great site ...........How about Stester Elem. School is it still there? Dave Coulter I no the name where did you live? Was anyone in your family named Nellie?
Number 13 Sun Village Little League Team was Carmen Iacona. Carmen, are you out there?
Hello chesterites. Born in chester hosp. in 1951 i lived in the feltonville section untill 1959 at which time we moved to bethel township. Not far from the booths cornor farmers market. In the mids 60's My mother Mae Buckalew opened a steak and hoagie shop on ninth and highland ave. Called "Mae's place". Only being there for a few years we moved up the road a bit to trainer. Next to the star car wash. Across from vessuvio's pizza. Has enyone heard from Joe elsworth, Joe mcDonald, Frank Capasso. Margie Pochmara,If you have any clue. Please feel free to email me. Would like to know how their lives turned out. Thanks for reading this.
All the best, Joseph Buckalew
John,
I have visited this site a few times since I saw the story in the Daily Times. I grew up in Highland Gardens (1945-1960). I now live in Trainer Borough.
I have enjoyed the posted E-Mails, and memories of Chester.
I was particularly interested is the Fire Companies Section. I found the photos from the "Chester and Vicinity" book by Hy V. Smith (1914) very interesting. Is this book available, or do you have any plans of offering it in the future, for sale?
Jerry Kilby (St. James class of 1960)
John, I really enjoy this site. My grand parents lived in the west end and I was born in the same house 73 years ago. We were members of Resurrection Church when Father Ganster was the pastor. What a beautiful neighborhood. I graduated from Rez in 1942 and then attended Immaculate Heart of Mary Commercial School. I moved away in 1950 but my parents stayed until they died. It would be great to hear from some of the west-end folks.
Hi, Me again! Also looking for people who may have participated in the Chester little league. I played t-ball and softball from 1985-1988 and I also was a cheerleader with my best friend, Heidi.
I was also disheartened to see what became of what used to be the Bridgewater Inn...What happened to Leo's Hoagie Stop? What happened to the park? They filled in and blacktopped the playground! All I see now are more broken bottles than children...
Unfortunately, during my visit I was treated rudely, everywhere from the 7-11 (well, what could I expect) and from old neighbors. No one just seems interested any more.
Please, anyone feel free to contact me!
Hello. I seem to be substantially younger than anyone here, but it's hard to find places on the net regarding Chester. I am looking for anyone who attended Toby Farms Elementary school during the late 80's including teachers. I loved the school and the teachers, especially Mrs. Dowling and Mrs. Kreigh. One thing I loved was the lovely walk from the neighborhood to the school, including the old farmhouse and the trees with the pretty flowers with petals that fell around us during the summer.
I visited Chester a couple of months ago for the first time in 12 years...I was quite disappointed in how "different" everything seems...
Anyone feel free to contact me about anything Chester related!
HI TO ALL,
HI TERRY, DIDN'T GET YOUR E MAIL, AUNT JANE TOLD ME ABOUT IT. ISN'T THIS WEBSITE GREAT. I HAVE SOME PICTURES TO ADD IN MEMORY OF MY GRANDMOTHER, STELLA OWSIANY, AYARS, SNYDER. JUST ADDED ONE IN MEMORY OF MY MOTHER PATRICIA AYARS MURPHY. TALK TO YOU LATER
Gosh, i'm back again. Paul I just read some of your recollections. They brought to mind somethings my dad used to tell me. He used to talk about swimming in Chester Creek and even in the Delaware. Anyone else remember doing that? Does anyone else remember the Milkman in the westend during the 60's, think his name was Larry. can see his face in my mind like it was yesterday.
I think your article was really good. I have passed it on to members of my familly who have moved away.
Great site, seen a lot of names, places, and things I recognize and remember. I grew up on Second and Kerlin St. Went to Gardside, Franklin, and CHS, class of 1960. To the Zangari grandsons, I do remember you grandfather's water ice. I think everyone loved the lemon, but, I liked lemon and cheery toghether in one cup.
Hi everybody I was born and raised in Chester, I lived on 15th street and went to stetser , smedley, and chester high drop me an e-mail
To the person who inquired about the small cemetery that was located on Market St., I, too, remember it well. My grandparents lived around the corner on Sproul St., and I remember being spooked when all the dead bodies were dug up and buried elsewhere. Seems to me it was near where the Lincoln Store (later York Store) was. I collect early Chester memorabilia, mostly from eBay. This morning I received in the mail a fabulous book about early Chester, published in 1903. The book is LOADED with amazing photographs, including three pictures of graves at this particular cemetery. The caption says, "Friends Burial Grounds, Edgmont Ave. above 6th St." The headstones in the picture have dates of 1757 and 1760 on them with the following names: Henry Graham, Henrietta Graham, Grace Lloyd, David Lloyd and Caleb Cowpland. I am planning to forward the book to our beloved webmaster John, and hopefully he will post many of the photographs onto this website. I have never seen so many wonderful pictures of early Chester.
For person asking about Our Lady of Vilna I think it was a Lithuanian Church around 4th & Madison. A few girls from that parish attended NDHS.
Bill Haley sure did play at Burkeys located 7th and Penn I remember seeing hin there on New Years Eve in 1953 or 54. All so I would frequently eat lunch there in 1952 along with my fellow classmates at CHS. Namely Pete Danos, Nick Iaacona, and Dallas Hitchens. The latter 2 are deceased but hope to see Pete next yearat our Fififty.
Cousin Diane!!! just checked out what's new! looked at the picture from Smedley. You have to tell me which one is your mom! Loved her so much, one of my very favorite people in the world. How the heck are you?
anyone from mcafferty village?born and raised on ganster place,even though i am only 34 and moved out of chester in 1976 still have fond memeries of chester.going downtown,,riding the ferry,,mgclones store,,,ted who drove the red truck,,,selling clothes i believe,,and him writing his name on our arms,,,,i could go on,,keep up the good work john!!
To Mary Connors, thanks for remembering my brother Michael, it was sad, tragic and so unnecessary but it happens like that to lots of families. Anyway, Jimmy is living in Colorado, teaching high school and director of the Athletic Dept. Has been there for years. We lived right next to the Holme's. They were great neighbors. Left in 83 for Ohio and now live in North Carolina outisde of Charlotte. Don't you just love this web site?
We've had webtv for a couple of years and used it rarely, however, I've become addictive in the past few days when I discovered this site. Kudos to you who came up with this idea. As of seen here,unless you were a part of it, no one can realize what a wonderful place Chester was to live in. Where are the people from my generation (1940's and on). I remember "little Ernie" someone inquired about. They played in a lounge (2nd floor) in Marcus Hook. Then Bill Haley. When he was just starting out he played in a tavern (was it Birkey's?) at 7th & Penn and band dressed as Cowboys. His drummer Ralph Jones lived at 10th & Butler.
To Terry McHugh--Really loved your response as to why people left Chester. I knew your brother, Michael, in high school and was really sorry to hear of his death. I also remember Jimmy. I had forgotten that you lived on 25th street. Trying to remember which house--wasn't it Adamis' or Holmes' previously? I think I was already gone from the neighborhood when you moved in but my mother was still there. 25th Street was a wonderful place to grow up. Actually, we were on Providence on the corner. When I was really little, my brother (3 years older) led the "25th street gang," as they called themselves. To get in the "gang" you had to be able to beat me up!! Even though I was little, not many could do that! I think I enjoyed the attention! Well, that ended when I was about 8 or 9. (He doesn't make people do that anymore!!) To my brother, Fran, if you're reading--you're still the greatest!! Mary
I too, think the response is wonderful and am not surprised. This website will be huge with all of the "oldchesterpa" people reminiscing. Some other memories of our dear city are: John's doggie stand at 7th Street and those good hot dogs; the wonderful class of '52; the boat ride to Riverview Beach and nobody came back without a lei around their necks and also the Wilson Line rides; going to Honeysuckle Farms on 9th Street for some good ice cream. Going to the shore and coming back on a Sunday and waiting for a long time for the ferry to take us back across the river. I'll continue to log on as I remember the good old days of Chester. We lived all over Chester so I have a lot of memories.
I remember working at my fathers bar at 550 Edgemont Ave on Saturdays and after school(ST.Michaels)running to different stores all over Chester ie:Farmers market,Edgemont Beef,Oppenheims,Medfords.etc. It was a great way to hussel money as a kid.I also used to love lunches from John's doggie shop!!
Didn't get to go through all of it yet but what I have seen is really great. Look forward to getting back on and seeing it all. I grew up in Eddystone, graduated Notre Dame, Moylan class of '53.
To Anne Malley McDevitta: which Shields family were you inquiring about? My father was from 7th and Potter.
to tom o"shea...regarding store on 9th and elsinor place...it was called franks.....
Just great reading the wonderful comments, Chester was a great town to grow up in. Nice getting email address of people we have not heard of in a very long time. Frank Vaul CHS 1950.
to, joe witcofsky...where is our lady of vilna...or where was it..
hi ed bowley class of 36.......yes a little before my time...we were the fifties crowd, i bet that 40 chevy was sharp.....
Please enter me on your mailing list.
Great site. Lots of memories. Grew up at 3rd. & Upland, (Great view of Sun Ship), went to Our Lady of Vilna, St. Mikes and St James('66). Franklin Fire Co in the '70s.
Anybody rememer Joe Pine, the first no-holds barred talk show from Chester? He lived in 900 block of W. 7th St and was a friend of my brother, Joe Malley from 800 block. Began on our local radio stations and ended up in Califrnia. Big success till cancer took his leg and eventually his life.
Paul Crowthers, thanks for info about Shields families, Where do I get such a direcory??
Loved your answer Terry McHugh
Jim McKinny I am sorry that I didnot answer your e-mail I accidentally eraced your address. We did have a good time in west-end Chester. It is a shame our children will neaver experience the fun we had. If you see any of the old little league gang, tell them I am alive and Living in Arkansas. There was alot of pretty girls at Chester High. At my high school there was not. I will talk to you in the future Drew J. Baron and living in Arkansas
Hey Paul and Laura, I would love to give my opinion concerning why we all left. There are many reasons for the decline of Chester, some social, some political, some economic and then there's the great "white flight" Some people moved to bigger houses in Brookhaven and Aston because they wanted bigger and better for their families, others moved out of fear. Fear of the unknown. Sadly most moved because they didn't know how good we had it in Chester and allowed fear to rule. My parents remained in their house on 7th st. until 4 years ago when my dad passed away. We then made mom move to my sister's in Brookhaven because we did not want her alone in the house. She would have been perfectly happy to stay and while dad was alive there was no moving him. He was a good neighbor to all of his neighbors and never thought of leaving. I remember being in Rez when the first "black" family started attending.( Dean Porter if you are out there anywhere I think of you now and then and remember our friendship fondly) I had such high hopes that nothing and everything would change for the better. It was about that time that i also started noticing the for sale signs. How much better we all would have been if we had shared our neighborhoods and not abandoned them. Only part of my thoughts ........How about yours? Also my husband and I married in 77 and lived in Chester until his transfer to Ohio. We lived on east 25th st. and probably would have stayed a long time.
What a great discovery ! My Family owned Shooster's Drive-In. I started there when I was 13 or 14 years old, about 1937-38, and became a terrific short order cook. My Dad had previously built a gas station on each corner. Ninth & Flower Street and Ninth and Edward Street. The first gas station, at 9th & Edward, had 13 different kinds of Gasoline. I still remember most of the brands.
Yes I would be interested in hearing your answer Paul.I left Chester totally in 1981. At the time I lived on Kerlin Street. I meet my husband who lived in Boothwyn....where I live now. Not so far from Chester.My heart is still there.
WOW LAURA, that's a pretty good question!! I have my own opinion and feelings on that subject. Would love to hear others. There are many factors involved. I'll give mine if anyone wants to hear them.
To Anne McDevitt, There are approx 20 Shields listed in the Chester City Directory for 1888. You may already know this though!
Can I ask one question? Why did everyone move away from the old neighborhoods? It was such a nice town. Lots of fun and good times.
Thought I'd try to put a few memories down before I get even more senile. Born [whisper]1938 at home on Grandview Ave. in Brookhaven. Remember walking to a corner store for ice cream with my Dad on Edgemont Ave.[Crowther Bros.] No relation. Moved to an apt. at 1407 Providence Ave. Remember the air raid drills when I lived there. Scared me to death! A "Warden" went around with a long pole and banged on your window if he saw any lights on. We moved from there in 1943. On moving day a big Mayflower truck came. When they were leaving they tore off the 2nd. floor balcony that hung over the driveway! That was a huge laugh for me! We moved to a brand new home in Highland Gardens. 1516 Perkins St. They cost new at the time $4,250.00. An end house was a couple hundred more.Think my Dad made about $35 a week so it was pretty expensive. Highland Gardens was built by developers named CULHANE& PERKINS. Our rear yard faced Highland Ave. Across Highland was nothing but fields as far as you could see. It seemed like a jungle to me. We dug forts ,built tree shacks and played Army there.Had to go to the Community Bldg. in McCarrery Village for 1st. grade as the new addition at Clayton was not ready on time. Between the two Forward Sts. from Perkins to Honan was a big empty lot. It was about 5 ft. above the St. We were told that someday they were going to put a road through there.Sure enough,years laters ,Bulldozers appeared one day.The Berlanti Cons. Co. built what we knew as the Conchester Hwy. Could never have imagined it becoming the big monstrous I-95. Where the I-95 goes through at Engle St.[w. side of Engle]was where all the Carnivals used to set up.After the Conchester they moved them out near the Sun Oil athletic field. They also had them in Trainer. All of the streets in Highland Gardens were named after local and State politicians.Walked to Clayton every day. Home for lunch too! Had the best teacher in the world there. Mrs. Helen Greenhalgh. She was a huge factor in what little intelligence I have! Then,on to Dewey-Mann. Walked to there too! It was my first introduction to an integrated school. A little nervous at first,but soon found there was nothing to be concerned about. Made some good friends there. Horace Walker& Bennie Adams come to mind. Never had a bit of trouble from anyone! Guess I've bored everyone enough for now. Please excuse any errors. My puppy is at my feet distracting me and several tenants have knocked on the door. If I don't get too much flak from this I'll enter some more useless information later when my brain cools off. A big part of my life was spent in Chester and my heart is still there![a big part of it anyway] Regards Paul
Believe it or not, I have the original hospital bill/invoice from my birth in Chester Hospital in 1955. John - are you interested in it? I can send you a copy.
Absolutely thrilled to discover this network! Whoever you are, I love YOU. Our son Kevin who works at Gen. Chemical Co. called us last night with the news. I saw Lou Warfel's name and wrote to him in Arizona and he replied right away. His son Jim and our Jay (St.James High School - 1966) have remained friends to this day. Printed out our beautiful Immaculate Heart of Mary Church at 2nd & Norris where my grandparents, Amelia & William Shields were married in the late 1800's, as were their 7 children and one grandaughter (me) I, like thousands of others have memories that I have jotted down for posterity. One comes to my mind in the daily walks from 7th Ward (actually 7th & Lincoln) with my brother Joe Malley, and Mary and Frank Cassell, many others for our daily swim in about 2 ft. of water but what fun sitting on the wall too. Our wonderful Friday nights...Gals would shop in Weinbergs & Rogers and fellows would wait in front ofSpeare Bros. Both sides of the street were crowded and you always ran into someone you knew. Another, when V-E day was declared, I was volunteering at old Chester Hospital. Three of us left in our Nurses Aides uniforms and someone picked us up in a roadster and handed us flags and we sat across the top of the back seat as we rode thru the streets of Chester. Enough for now, but have many, many more.
I grew up in Chester and enjoyed every day spent there. I have alot of great memmories with good friends and good times. Would love to see a big Chester reunion. Drop me a line to say hello....:)
Bornin Chester Raised In Mc Cafferty Village.So many good memories!see if you remember these~walkingfrom Clayton School to William Penn on the first day it opened,Chester West Littel Leagues parade on opening day, playing Baseball on the Asphaltin the first Playground,seven Swamps,Sherwood Forrest,sleding on Buckman & food Fair Hillrt. across ninth st!pushing carts For money to go to the Lyric.especially sat morning matinee, seeing old yellar there,burning christmas Trees in the playground,Sadies half moon donuts,Queenies at 10th & Booth for ice cream & packs of baseball cards Goodsies in such a littel garage! hanging on the CORNER with so many good friends no matter how cold it was, GINOS being built then crusin thru it when old enough to drive Submarine watchin at front & highland,Big Moes,Drag raceing near the CHS Athletic Field But the best is the friends i made there and all the times we had together thru the years good and bad.But theres a bond thats so deep it will last for all our days lets have a reunion!! later Jamo
Looking for anyone who knew or are related to;Steckel,Trosino,DeCostansa,Ruhf
I was born in The old Chester Hospital in 1955.My father was raused on Booth St.and my mother in Feltonville,so going to Chester was something we did quite often.I saw Pinnocheo at the State theater,bought army surplus backpacks at L and H,ate at the Yellow Bowl,and HAD to go to Speers with my grandmother.Does anyone remember in Sears the beach ball floating in tha air above the vacume cleaner display? It was next to the steps going upstairs.I remeber crossing tthe foot bridge from the parking lot.I see Chester now .How could such a beautiful decline to what it is now?
Remember Cheste west Little Leauge Mr. Miller Presedient. VFW Post 1521 Champs Mr.Bernard Head Coach. Nothing but a Field. But great Times.
It's great to relive the good old days in Chester. Many people have no idea that Chester was the place to shop and go to the movies with friends.
I recently lost my father who was born and raised in chester on Thurlow street,i can remember driving with him to vist my grandfather during the sixties and seventies,as we whould drive thru Chester from our home in Ridley he would reminisce and tell me how great and diverse Chester was,the friendly people out on thier porches,the corner markets and allthings great about Chester. I could see tears in his eyes as i would try to imagine his memories,but thanks to you i dont have to imagine anymore!! Thanks again Robert Wolski
What was the "little league pledge" said at the Chester East Little League? I do remember that saying, but can't recall the pledge.
I had a crush on ballplayer #13, Sun Village. Do you know who wore that number? I do.
Notre Dame-Class of 1962. Please list my Father's name under Chester Detectives (Samuel D'Amato-Passed away on 5-19-81) also County fingerprintman. Married to Myrtle Winfree, sister of Chief Howard Winfree. Enjoying your website. Will be sending info re: my family soon. Thanks for the trip down Memory Lane
TO: Matt Mooney You asked about anyone who grew up in Sun Village. My family is still around the area but no one lives in Chester any longer. We lived in Sun Village from 1950 til 1961 on Remington Street (lived next door to Larry Fiorelli, who later became a Chester policeman). Lived at 12th & Madison thru high school. I drove through that area just last weekend and it certainly has changed quite a bit. Went to Jefferis, Smedley and then Chester High.
Hey Folks, Sitting here, having my morning coffee, and going over these pages, ( brings back so many memories ). I got an e-mail from someone who wasked me if I remembered Sadie's & Queenie's, and that just brought back more memories for me. There was also a store that stood there on 10th & Booth in the 70's, called the Corner Deli. I used to work there when I was younger. It was ran by a guy named Dennis Fitzwater, and his mom , Ida. They were really nice people. And Joe Gruskia's ( please forgive the spelling) The Dentist, when he had his store on 10th Street, behind his house and office,. I think he had the best selection of toys that were in my price range. I remember bugging my dad for money, because I saw this certain toy I wanted to get. And he's give in.....Remembering life in McCafferty Village, The O'Brien's, The Snarrs, The Chandler's, The Supplees', The Bates Boys', The Lairds', and The Reddens', The list goes on and on.... Need another cup of coffee, so, hope to see some familiar names in here soon, Have a good day. Dave Redden.
Born in Chester, Pa...1917...now 84 years old....Lived there until 1940 when we moved to Twin Oaks...Went to Chester High School and grduted Class of '36...Lived on Lindsay Street across from Chester park until 1940...Glad to reminisce and fill in with info if I can...just eMail me at edlbee@aol.com... Glad to hear from any of my classmates either before or after '36... Great site Paul..we have talked before and you have done an excellent job..
Ed Bowley..... edlbee@aol.com
This is a very interesting site. I was born in the old Chester Hospital, and graduated from Chester High School in1972. I have so many memories of Chester. I remember the flood in Eyers Park, and when overtown was overtown. Not as I see it now when I go to Chester. I want to Dewey Mann and Franklin Elemantary schools, Showater Jr. High too. I remember the Chester High School band and the football games and parades it use to be so big, I want to a mother's day parade a couple of years ago and the band had about 20 people in it if that. What in the world is happening in Chester. I lived on the westend of the city. I can't forget Mr. Al and Alberta corner store at 2nd and Engle, or Mr. Reed sticky apples or his little sweet potatoe pies. I can still see The Coffee Cup resterant and 2nd and Townsend Street. Leo's Market at the corner of 2nd and Jeffery. Murphy Church at 2nd and Engle, espeacially in the summertime when they open up the playground, playing hockey, making keychains and other crafts. Vaction Bible School, so we could get the Koolaid and cookies. The hogies, water ice, mustard preztels, cheesesteaks. The two for a penny candy, banana splits, mint jelaps. We most of the truck traffic use to come down second street, before I95. I remember when I think that four or five children was hit by a train and die back around 1962 or 1963. I was young myself. I remember when trains use to come down Uurich Street and shake the house. Butler Field playground. Marie's Market at 3rd and Kelin Street. I can go on and on. Now I live in Baltimore County, MD. But I am glad that I have fond memories of Chester.
I grew up in Chester from 1954 (born) to 1977. 8th and Madison and then over to Elsinore PLace till 1977. I attented St Micheals from 1960 to 1968...and then went to St James. HS.
Who could ever forget Chester in the 50's and 60's? I used to visit my grandparents on Elsinor Place near 9th st. I remembered the Polish-American Club and I think there was an aquarium store on 9th but also on the corner of 9th and Elsinor there used to be a "novelty store" combined with a bar on that corner anyone remember the name of the place?
Phoenix area calling...
All you transplanted Chesterites now living in the Phoenix area... I'm moving to Mesa soon. Meanwhile I generally get out there for a week each month. (thank goodness for Americawest fare sales)
We should plan a get-together lunch or dinner similar to the one held in Chester last February at the diner.
I've been trying to find an aunt that I lost contact with many years ago. Her name is Lillian Buller she would be in her 70's now. Her husband's name was Larry Buller and her twin daughters were Nancy and Diane. The girls would be in their fifties now.
They lived in Marcus Hook for awhile and the last I heard they were living in Claymont DE.
I don't know the girl's married names.
If anyone knows the family please tell them I would love to hear from them.
Is anyone posting here going to the CHS 1956 reunion in October?
I lived in Highland Gardens in my teen years. I had many friends in Mc Caffrey Village and Buckman Village. I remember Honeysuckle Farm, Vesuvio's, the Lyric theater, and McGlone's. I also remember a bakery on 2nd St and Highland Ave. We use to buy bread out of the back door at night when the bakery store was closed. The bread was fresh from the oven and I would put it inside my jacket to keep it warm and run home just as fast as I could.
How about Chandler's Shoes and Buster Brown Shoes. I can still sing their song. And the banana splits at Woolworths and you had to pop the balloon to see how much it cost. And Sally Starr at Chester Park. And Gene London. And the Sun Ship whistle to announce the end of the workday. And the smell of Spears Brothers Store and Weinbergs. I loved those smells. And the drive thru window at the bank downtown. And the display windows of Delaware County National Bank.
very nice site i have few police pic's if uyou like
to peter krasowski: sorry for the type error on my e-mail address. take note on this post. would like to chat by e-mail bout old chester.
An outstanding web site, have lots of memories of the Old Chester, Have been in the military 67-69, served in viet nam, received two purple hearts, viet nam service medal,and couple others, also a member of the Chester Police Department for 11 years, 67-78, my mother was also with the PD. Well again great web site, contiue the site, will get on again.Went to one class reunion the 30th and hardly knew a sole, thats bad have found a few in the web site Classmates. Lived in the 1400 block EdgmontAve. You all take care.
I used to live in McCaffery Village, Knight Place, from '58 to '65. Went to Rez and graduated in '70. I had brothers and sisters also went to Rez. Maryanne, Jim, John (Chopper), and Percy (Sonny). My three brothers were on the football team. Jim is now the Police Chief of Trainer. Dad (Percy, Jr.) graduated from CHS in '47 and mom (Mary Boyle Magaw) graduated from Notre Dame in '50. I remember taking the bus to town and shopping at Woolworth's and Lee's Records where you could get the hottest 45's. I also remember Honeysuckle, Gino's, Vesuvio's, Joe's, and McGlone's. This website is great. Keep it up.
If anyone knows anything of "Venetian Pastries" or the Pennisi family. Please feel free to email me at CkVin@aol.com
Love the website...Thanks.
This message is for Barb Duke , I tried to emial you but your address is not with hot mail. I lived on W 10 th street in Chester and I wanted to chat with you regarding chester. pa.
Hey Chuck (Charlie) Farnan:
Graduated from CHS 1965? Since I only work a couple of blocks from John's Doggie Shop would be glad to send to you one; maybe you'll have to come back and visit, how about our next Class Reunion and I will make sure they are on the menu....
This is so GREAT I moved away in 1971 the yr I graduated from Chester High .......I lived 14th and Edgemont all my life which is now a Howard Johnsons..........I road thur Chester last yr and couldn't believe my eyes how everything had changed but there are still something still there but not much .....I rememeber the old bus barn that was there ......Joes Grocery store on the corner......etc.........you are doing a great job really enjoy this keep up the goos work would enjoy seeing more and hearing morekeep up the good work......... Betty
Hi, I realy like this web site. Does anyone remember the teenage club that my father ran in Highland Gardens? My father also was cub scout leader for troup #350.I graduated in "52" We all had good times back then. Thank you for this site John
To Chuck Farnan
I'd be happy to send you a "JOHNS DOGGY" if you'll send a HOAGIE to me here in Canada! Paul
Lots of great memories of Chester. Where did the years go? I need a John's Doggie down here in Florida!!
Paul: How lovely! You are a sweet person to be so public with such a super response. How kind. I can remember working in the chicken yard and also in the flower gardens and I guess I complained about the work being so hard. My grandfather would always say, "Hard work won't kill you." His response always seemed harsh, to the child. As an adult over 50, I now understand what he meant. Since I am still an elementary teacher, when the children complain about the work being hard, guess what I usually say? Thanks, Chris
Grew up in the west end of chester,Highland Gardens married Elaine Cox Mckay. Saw a message from Mike Mangan is this the same Mike Mangan that worked for Sun Oil in 1966
What times I had going thru the Albert Deshong Art Museum and enjoying the wonderful works of art. The beautiful "Scrimshaw" collection. I worked at Cooley Lilley's as a kid at the gift store and the card shop on the corner right across from the newstand. How often I boast of what a wonderful town Chester was to grow up in--- Thank you for the most wonderful memories and pix.
This is somewhat difficult for me to write. Whoever said"the pen is mightier than the sword" sure knew what they were talking about! A few days ago,I replied to a post on here from Christine Dalton. She made reference to her Grandfather who worked for the American Stores Co. I wrote back. Yes, I remember him and went on to describe an incident from the long buried past. [about 55 yrs. ago] I wish now I had chosen my words more carefully. I did not mean to publicly criticize anyone either intentionaly or accidently! It is so much easier talking face to face with another to fully relate! The day after my message I received a direct e-mail from Christine apologizing to me. I feel that since I originally put my reply public,I should also apologize to her publicly. I'm sure your Grandfather was a very nice and decent person How do I know that? Well,the offspring is a pretty good indicator. Also,any Man that loved flowers and chickens has to have a good heart! Paul
P.S. Christine,I also fed the squirrels in Deshong Park! Probably related to the ones you did! Mine were born in the 1940s
What a great idea! although I have been away from Chester many years,so much of my youth was there. I would have graduated '57,I noticed Alan Rosenthals name on your list and I went to school with him,Bonnie Wood, Barbara Scull immediately come to mind. Many fond memories.I now live in FL. After a crazy youth I married and had 6 children,7 grandchildren and as of Mon. 1 great-grandchild! My how the years fly!I still have a lot of family in the area and visit the area at least once or twice a year. Would love to hear from old friends and classmates.
Born in Chester 1940. My dad was Thomas T. Minshall, funeral director, @ 1322 west third st. in Chester. Graduated Dewey-Mann in 1953. If anybody is left from the class of 1953, contact me.
I wanted to wait to get back on till the pace slowed down from the article in the times. Seen a lot of familiar names, places and things after reading all the latest @ the Newstand. I've been on twice before. Hey Marc Barnshaw, Bogan? Any one interested, I have a mini Crosby St. reunion every year(pig roast)at the Folsom VFW on MacDade Blvd. next to Anna's Hoagie Shop (Sept 15th, 2001). Everyone is welcome and we usually have about 300 people but only about 30-40 from the old neighborhood or Chesterite's in general. Call the Post for info. @ 610-461-1226. PS. the "Original Crosby St./E. 7th street sign (pole and all) will be there as it is every year (everyone likes to get their picture taking hanging out with the sign). John sure has done a great, super, stupendous, fantastic, etc..job with this great site. Some names from the old corner I missed in my previous visit's, Petrilli, News, Chester Gene, Carl John, Joe Myers, Whitey and Lynch. Hanging at @ Shorty's (under Henry's Men's Store), playing pool on the aircraft, racking pool for Buffington, McCracken, Shorty, etc...Look up my previous visits and I think you'll enjoy my recollections. I could go on and on. Gabe's Barber shop (biggest book in town)haircut .25 cents and Dad would give me a dime to tip him, made me feel like a big guy at 6 & 7 yrs old back in 53-54. Setting up duck pins at the bowling alleys in the Eagles club @ 7th & Deshongs, Jakey Brother's store @ 8th & Deshong,Stotters and the wooden floors, wow! Fishing behind the Rainbow diner at "THE WALL", actually sleepy out there too. So many great memories still reside in my foggy forgetfulness so I'll sign off for now. John, once again, Thanks!!!!!! DON'T FORGET THE CROSBY REUNION IN SEPTEMBER!
L. D.
thanks for the memories!
Great site, My sister told me about this site. I can not beleive how many people feel the same about the city of Chester as me and my family. I have moved from Chester some 30 years ago, and my memories were starting to fade. Thank You for keeping my memories a click away. I remember Lee's record shop! does anyone remember Johns doggie shop?
PERSON LOOKING FOR PERSONS FROM SUN VILLAGE, THER ARE STILL MANY OF US AROUND, MOST OF US FROM CHESTER HIGH CLASS OF 1949. THANKS FOR A GREAT WEBSITE AND MEMORIES OF A GREAT TOWN AND GREAT PROPLE.
THIS IS AN ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL WEBSITE, I WAS BORN, RAISED AND STILL LIVE IN CHESTER, BELIEVE ME WHEN I SAY, THE PEOPLE OF CHESTER ARE STILL CARING AND LOVING. I WAS BORN IN THE WEST END AND NOW LIVE IN THE EAST END, I STILL WORK IN CHESTER AND I AM PROUD OF THIS CITY AND WHAT IS HAPPENING WITH THE NEW DEVELOPEMENTS TO IMPROVE THE IMAGE OF CHESTER, PA. I STILL ATTEND TRINITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH AT 9TH & BUTLER,(MOST OF YOU REMEMBER THE BASKETBALL COURT) WELL. ITS STILL FUNCTIONING AND SO IS THE CHURCH, DROP BY AND SEE US, AND ALSO SEE THE SECTION ON CHURCHES, HOPEFULLY WE CAN UPDATE WHAT IS HAPPENING AT TRINITY. CONGRATULATIONS ON A GREAT WEBSITE AND A GREAT TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE.
it's only been about 6 months since i was able to figure out how to read the delaware county daily times online. so many times i've been brought to tears just reading what's going on in chester over the years. i was born and raised in chester. i have many many fond memories of my home , growing up on west 10th street, just off of highland ave. grushkas's market alias "joe's" store was just across the street, sadie's at the end of the block, zeitz's pharmacy a block below where i'd always go to buy a valentine heart of candy for my grammom for mothers day, picway shoe store on 9th street where i always looked forward to get $5.00 when school let out so i could get my 2 pairs of sneakers for summer play for 2/$5.00, mccafferty viallge dances, st. james dances when i got older, the big leopard skating rink, the state and boyd theaters, sacred heart fairs in the summer and may day fair at ressurection school grounds, riding my bike through mccafferty villiage to visit my aunt and uncle in buckman villiage and highland gardens to play with friends. playing baseball in the field behind our house between 9th and 10th streets and kickball and hopschotch in the alley next to our house. never stopping to think till i was older and moved away why "joe" (the store across the streets owner) never oiled that squeaky heavy door. all the ton's of nice looking guys living within a 4 block radius that always gathered in front of joe's store night and day. penn fruit to do your grocery shopping, gino's, vesuivio's, and the best steaks and hoagie's were at 2 j's not to mention the wonderful whole chickens you got at honeysuckle.. your parents let you go out and play in the neighborhood without worrying because they knew you'd be home for supper and then before it got dark. you knew who strangers were, but weren't afraid because you knew all the neighbors were looking out for you and protect you from harm. the water ice and pretzel truck, mister softie truck, and the hucksters that would come to your door to sell you fresh fruits and vegetables. taking the bus to downtown chester to shop for your hearts desire, and if you had extra packages to carry there was always bell cab to call. when you actually walked home for lunch when in elementary school at william penn, and only went 1/2 days at pulaski when chester high school burnt down. when you went sledding on clover lane and the hill next to sacred heart, when you were allowed out in the thunderstorms to run around and cool off. when it wasn't uncommon to have party lines on your phone, and you knew alot of the cops by name. when the mayor was nacrelli and officer steppkee were just plain ole neighbors. when you and your neighbors respected the fact that the parking spot in front of your house belonged to you only. when a kid could run to the corner store and buy a pack of cigarettes for a elder in your home and it only cost 38cents. taking the ride once a week to the dairy farm on 322 to buy your milk in glass container capped with the peel off aluminum, buying your chicken and eggs at yanks and going to boothwyns farmers market to buy fresh fruit and veggies, before it was burnt down and looked like a real farmers market. and the way to get to upland was by taking that narrow, pot holed road known as incinerator road. ooow those 2 scary narrow train over passes that you would beep the horn when going through. and the forth was always celebrated at chester park with the entire family for picnic and fireworks and the yearly summer corn boils and picnics at scott park in brookhaven. my , my i could go on and on too. so glad to have found this site. boy has it brought alot of memories to surface. keep up the good work.
Great website!! CONGRATULATIONS! I just wish I had known about it before. So glad that the Daily Times did the story about it. It's much more than I ever expected. I can see it growing by leaps and bounds because we "natives" have countless stories and pictures to share. In just one night I've learned so much! You're doing a wonderful job. Thanks for the info and the "flashbacks."
I spent most of my summers out of Resurection School, at 9th & Highland St., either at the old Buckman Airport, or at the Congress Movie Theater where my dad was the manager. I took my first ride in a plane at the age of 7. It was a fiber & wood Piper J-3 Cub. My father also managed the old Washington Theater, the Stanley, the Mac, the Congress & Globe in Marcus Hook, and ended his career as a dispatcher for the Chester Police. Mom worked at the old Honeysuckle Farm Ice Cream store on 9th st. I am retired from Westinghouse where I started in 1958, just out of St. James & retired here in Charlotte, NC in 1994..
ANYONE OUT THERE FROM REZ CLASSES OF 62-65 WANT TO HAVE A REUNION? CNTACT ME AND WE'LL SE IF THERE IS A VIABLE INTEREST.
LOVD SEEING THE PICTURE OF SHOOSTER'S. BROUGHT BACK MEMORIES OF GOING WITH MY AUNTS ELEANOR AND ALICE DRAPER TO GET CHOCOLATE MILKSHAKES AND HAMBURGERS ON WARM SUMMER NIGHTS. ( I WAS ONLY 3 OR 4 BUT GRANDMOM WOULD MAKE THEM TAKE ME ALONG.) ELEANOR WAS A CHS CHEERLEADER AND ALICE WAS IN THE BAND. DON'T KNOW WHAT YRS. LIVED IN HIGHLAND GARDENS.
CHK'D OUT THE SITE AGAIN AND SAW TONI DINICOLA HAD VISITED BUT E-MAIL ADDRESS COMES BACK INCORRECT. (TONI, IF YOU ARE LISTENING, I THINK WE WERE IN HOMEROOM (ND68) THAT IS D-2;C-2;B-2;A-2(FINALLY)!!!CHAT BACK IF YOU ARE SHE!
Anybody still around from Sun Village?
Well, I'm a bit young to know about most of the things on this site (I graduate in 2003), but I did come to the site because of the Daily Times article. I was going to CHS Academy (the old Chester High), and enjoyed seeing pictures of the school that I will never attend again because it has been closed.
My name is Joe Fusco. My parents are Mr and Mrs Joseph Fusco Jr. My mothers maiden name is Marthe Richards(Riccardi). They are both long time residents of Chester. All my aunts, uncles, cousins were all long time residents of Chester. We are all proud to be part of the city history. I have many great memories growing up in the city up Chester.
To Bill Tonge Bill I lived inGaredn City but went to Chester High. Married Mary Davis I tried to e-mail you but it didn't work. Send me a e-mail
What a wonderful website! It brings back so many fantastic memories.Friday nights were always special when everyone went shopping. We first stopped at Linton's Restaurant for dinner and then the family drove into town going to Weinbergs, Spears and the memorable 5 & 10 cent stores.On Saturday mornings I loved going to the Farmer's Market with my grandmother. Then it was skating at The Great Leopard. In the evening we either went to the Boyd,The State or the Stanley Theater to see the latest movie. Many Saturday nights we ended up at Shooster's Drive-in for burgers and shakes.We all loved going to the shore as we had to ride on the Chester Ferry to cross the Delaware.Things have certainly changed and I do miss those "good old days".
This is exciting! I have been away from "home" for so many years and I live so far away from my roots, that this site is just what the doctor ordered for me and so many of my classmates (class of '50 - CHS). I hope to be contributing in the future, and since time began - Seniors have never had it so good as the fun this will be. I don't know of any other hometown that has done this. "Ain't the people from Chester, PA just grand?"
I can remember going to the State Theater to see Clint Eastwood The Good The Bad and The Ugly I told my kids thats where I seen It thanks now I can show them,I have lots of good times in Chester as a Youth
I have tried to find the name of the school on Patterson St. for years. Everyone I asked did'nt know,and I lived on that St. for years and could'nt tell you.You have truly made my day.
I think this web site is fantastic! Please keep up the good work. Thank you very much. I would like to mention that St. James Catholic High School for Boys was also part of the rich tradition of Chester, Pa. You can check out the St. James Alumni web page at www.stjbulldogs.org
This is such a cool sight. Brings back soooo many memories!!!
Laura and other Chesterites - I am Pete and Lovana's daughter, the baby. Our store was at 8th and Caldwell. I remember working in the store and stocking the shelves from Montco, cleaning the glass of the pinball machine, sunbathing on our garage roof listening to WIBG with George Michael (he's a sportscaster here in DC), selling the penny candy (remember Hershey bars were one nickel?). Dad always liked making and selling water ice. Do you remember our Fifi who always barked at customers? Going to the Mac movies with the big pics of Mickey and Minnie Mouse...50 cents got me cartoons, a double feature and lots of candy. I remember all the kids hanging on our corner playing the radio, playing kickball, playing hide and seek, and the great hotdogs at the Chester East Little League - 2 for a quarter! I remember Memorial Day with the little league teams marching in a parade for opening day. I remember all the May Fairs in the area too. I used to take the bus to trainer pool with my girlfriend Susanne from Green Street. We got in as sisters and paid less.
I loved the ferry rides to Atlantic City and Brigantine but I was always afraid to be first or last on the ferry since our car might roll over even with the wooden things under your tires. I remember Cooley Lilly's cardshop, Johnny's hot dogs and all the great stores in downtown Chester. We moved from Chester in 1969 to Ridley when I was 14 years old but my memories of our corner store are very fond. I still remember the prices of the things we sold...Cigs were 30 cents and 31 cents. Milk was 57 cents a half gallon. Going to Deshong Park and feeding the squirrels and pigeons on my way to the library was lots of fun. And I remember Painters, the store where I burned my hand on one of their stoves (I was playing house) while my parents were paying on our stereo. I also remember my Halloweens. We'd walk for blocks and blocks and blocks since me and my brother knew everyone. And then there was the Quality Market and Jimmy's steaks. I could go on and on all night. We used to go to Holy Ghost School on the school bus - the stop was right on our corner. Mom would dry the clothes on our rooftop. I used to play in the playground behind the house - Pulaski's. Hockey, Sorry, gimp, Cootie, the merry go round where the kids would get sick from going around too fast...and the State Theater. Wasn't that a classy place with the fancy stairs and carpeting?
I remember George one of our suppliers. I think Kranyuk or something like that. He would give Fifi the slim jims that were loose from the box - she waited for him every Friday.
Thanks, John, for a great site. You wowed me! They were the good old days even though I lived there for 14 years.
Laura - do you remember me?
CHESTER HIGH CLASS OF 1963. DOES ANYONE KNOW HOW TO GET A YEARBOOK FOR 1963? JOHN DID NOT READ TO MUCH ABOUT BETHELCOURT IN CHESTER? SAM CUTLERS STORE AT MARY AND BIVENS ST. OR OPPENHIMERS MARKET OR THE WADE CENTER IF ANY ONE HAS ANY STORIES OR PICTURES PLEASE POST THEM. BORN AND RAISED IN CHESTER AND STILL HERE.
I have been looking for Betty Walker H.S. class of 1946. She had a sister Helen. Do you know where they are, or Betty's married name? Or possibly what High school they attended. Betty attended St.Michaels' grade school, class of "42" in Chester, PA. They lived at 627 Sproul St. Betty was married in 1949, then moved to State College, Pa.
Thanks much Bob in Michigan LauniereR@aol.com
Someone mentioned the 35th reunion of CHS '66. Here's the info for the ones who haven't been contacted. Date: Saturday, November 24, 2001 Place: Embassy Suites, Philadelphia Time: 6:00 p.m. Checks or M.O. payable: CHS Class of 1966, 14 Jennifer Lane, Aston, PA 19014 ($42.50 per person - $80.00 couple in advance)($45.00 per person at the door). Questions? e-mail Irene Fleming Clements IPC@LRMS.UPENN.EDU or call Joyce Payne Wells at (610) 447-3815 or e-mail JAPWELLS@HOTMAIL.COM More memories: Coming back from Wildwood and waiting in line to get on the Chester-Bridgeport ferry with your girl on Sunday night (the wait was almost worth it). CHS's band marching up Concord Road towards the athletic field playing "Swingin' On Parade" (which I considered their theme song) with at least 100 or more kids dancing behind them (damn, the drum section, so cool, best beat in the country). Yum-Yums? Don't remember them being called that. The old man who used to push the two-wheeled snow-cone cart around the center of town yelling "Hokey-Pokey", now that I remember. Playing hold-em-up football at the National Guard Armoury at the end of 24th Street(no pads or cleats, just pure stupidity, trying to kill each other-Flanagen, McIntye, Warburton, Curl, Taylor twins, Stafford, Ryan, Murphy, Art Smith, Mucker, just to name a few of the young-n-dumbs that played with me, miss them all). Meeting my Grandmother and Aunt for lunch at Whalen's Drug Store, outside the train station on Edgemont (across from Lee's Records-{Jim Garvey, I did mention it before}. Lloyd's Men's Store, where my Dad would take me to get a new suit, whether I wanted one or not. Stotter's at Christmas to see the toys (never WOULD get in Santa's lap - he never looked quite right to me). Shorty's Pool Hall, next to the State, off the alley ("Don't go down there, the bad-asses hang there", many became friends later). Playing pee-wee football in Linton's parking lot, dodging the cars and the car-hops. CHS basketball games at the Voc (we were the "rowdy-rooters" from '63 to '66 and could shut down any, and all, rival cheers from our opponents with our "Back-to-the-woods"). Walking the B&O railroad tracks to get where you were going (dumb), but not then. Cherry bomb stems stuck in cigarettes in the ventilation duct,(time bomb), in the pool room at the YMCA (the staff never could figure out why 20 of us were sitting quitely in the snack bar waiting. trying to keep a straight face-I didn't do it, but was one of the lucky ones aware of the setup- Butakus sprawled on the pool table-good for a grin). Sneaking empty coke bottles away from the gas station at 22th & Edgemont (2 cent return), taking them to the market on 23th & Edgemont to get the deposit and going to the cleaners in between for 5 cent cokes. Geez, maybe I was a delinquent and I'm just realizing it now. Have to think...
I am 41 years old and my most fond memories of Chester are in the 1960's when I was a child. I grow up on McIlvain st which is the east end. Friday nights we would walk down town. John's doggie shop was always a treat and still is today.
Sometimes we would walk to my grandmom's all the way to 6th and Butler Sts.
Just a quick stop to your site today. It's brings joy to so many. FYI, the above email address zaklee.dan@verizon.net is not yet active. It should be active by next week.
hi i lived in chester until i was 24 yrs old it was and still is a great town
St. Robert's Roman Catholic Church has a rich history prior to it's becoming St. Katherine Drexel Parish. That history needs to be added under "Churches". (St. Robert's School, Class of 1958) This is a great website! Thank you.
What a rush of memories!!! From the pictures of the city and it's parks to the photo's of the Franklin Fire company fire trucks; each picture brings back things I thought I had long forgotten. We (my parents, brother Harry and sister Charlene) lived in and grew up in Eyre Park. Thank you for this trip back in time.
Thanks for this great web site. Grew up on East 21st Street, and have a multitude of fond memories of Chester and friends. It was truly a great place to have grown up. Thanks again.
We use to live in Mcaferty Village,,,,1222 Ganster Place,,,,,,1966-1976 what a wonderful time we had,,,,,went to William Penn School,,,,,,1970-1976,,,What a great web site this is
Chuck H. ...never knew you lived in Sun Village...I lived there myself until I was 8 years old...many fond memories (as Lou C. can tell you)
I'm back again. Does anyone remember... Pete's store on 8th and McDowell Street? I remember many times going there and talking to one of the owners....Lavana. That was an everyday place for me to go to.Anyone remember Palaski's playground? Haven't seen too many people from that end of town on here.Anyone from Green Street or that area.... around?
"You can take the boy out of Chester... But you can NEVER take Chester out of the boy"
I was born in Chester 1951 Lived at 5th and Fraklin St ..moved to Wallingford in 1963..NPHS '69 Many Many fond memories of the City ...
But I can't beleive no one has mentioned .. "LEE'S RECORD SHOP"
By the way.. it was my Great Aunt who came up with the slogan "WHAT CHESTER MAKES.. MAKES CHESTER".. she won a washing machine for her effort.
My Dad drove for Yellow Cab and my Mom worked at Shooster's ! I have some great newspaper clippings and photos I hope to share !
PS.. I married a wonderful girl from Chester 31 years ago. Winnie Larkin 10th & Potter ( St. Mikes and Notre Dame Class Of '67 )
I grew up in the West End of Chester and went to St. Hedwig's. I think the idea of this website is great and hope that you can keep it up. Hopefully, many great stories about Chester will be added to this site. Thanks for the memories!
John, What a wonderful site, well I've known about it for over a year (my smart sister Dolly informed me of it.)I was born and raised in Chester. My sisters and brothers and I all graduated from Chester High. I went to Wetherill and Smedley and am a proud Chester High 1965 Grad. I have been enjoying your siteall this time and boy as one commenter said,and is right the article in the Times has people coming out of the woodwork. I lived in the city all my life until 4 years ago but I still work there and can see the notes in the sidewalk where Bill Haley's house was on Crosby Street between 4th and 5th Street from where I park my car. The City is definitly on the move in the right direction. There have been many improvements made and I hope they will continue. It is interesting to compare the photos that were in the Times to the current buildings; the Chester Post Office interested me at 5th and Welsh that is where I work now. Keep this GREAT site going. I tried to tell all of my friends about it,now some of them are e-mailing me about it. I spent a long time last night and tonight reading all the comments on the "Bulletin Board" just because of the newspaper article. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.
great website! CHESTER always in our hearts.we always talk about how chester was back in the fifties.JERRY IRWIN wrote a great email to this site-i remember all those great names activities and times.i've seen a dozen names of old friends here also.good luck-will be looking in often. earl
My husband and I just discovered this web site and we love it. I grew up in Upland and Tom grew up in Chester and the surrounding area.
My husband and I just discovered this web site and we love it. It is fun looking back at all the pictures and information!
Hey Guys!! This site is fantastic!! Although I actually grew up on 3rd street in Trainer, Chester, started at the corner (same block) at my Grandmothers house, and Grandfather's Barber Shop. Memories yes indeed...Thanks
What a great web site and service to the great history of Pa oldest city. Congratulations a job well done. I am going to purchase the video. Would you be able to tell me how I can find a directory for 1910-1912? Thank you, Ellen Breen
looking for a very old friend hung around sun village frank santucci nickname squab best dancer around town where are you i lived in chester township
Born & grew up in Chester,1030 Parker St.Moved away in 1965,great town to grow up in,I couldn"t go two blocks from our house without someone that would know me,or my family.I think that was my brother Ralph caused that,I think he got in troble alot.What would you say Ralph??Iremenber Lincoln school 1950_1957 Miss Baker the music teacher,Ms Cloud 1 st.grade ms.Harley &ms Markley 2&3 grades,Ms Troffo 4-grade Ms Field 5-grade Ms Babiack 6-grade Ms Gallieger was the principle. Gym teacher was Mr Speceannis not sure of spelling but last part of name was rigth for him. Miss Mousely was kiddygarden.School had a season for flipping baseball cards,jump rope,Yoyos,kick ball,Went to C.H.S.class of 63 .Vo-tech part,at the annex by Eddystone,Mr Tom Phillips building const.class.Old Happys lunch truck came there to.You also had the May Fare @Chester Hospital,I"ll get back on later Good site,Thanks Ralph
its been a long time from chester i went to immaculate heart till 1956 then to notre dame graduated 1959. married to dale odonnell nickname ace
I'm glad that we have this site to see how productive Chester used to be.
be glad to hear from any bissinger. was born on wilson street & went to rez.school.
glad to hear from any bissinger
Hey John, looks like the Times article has people coming out of the wood work!! This is wonderful. I need to post a hello to several people, my email is down right now, and will be down for a while. Monica Ditchburn: any relation to Collette Ditchburn? Went to Rez with her, graduated 72. Robert Worst: are you my old boss?? think you may be, I worked at Southeast National in 76 with Delores and Larry in Commercial Loan, then they transferred us all to Malvern, where I worked for a Mr Bob Worst in Securities Dept? If it's you HELLO!!! hope you are well. Jim Hanavin, are you the Jim of the Judy and Jim Hanavan from Highland Garden's? if so HELLO!! my best to you and Judy and the family. Finally Alice Lauser, I'm Not sure but i think i got and email from you but was unable to open it, we've had a virus attaching to emails so we are not opening or sending. Anyway John, this just keeps getting better and better all the time! The article was great and once again thanks for all you do. Love my mugs and the calender.. terry
This is a fantastic site I lived in chester until I was 19 my family for the most part still does oh..Upland brookhaven but as far as im concerned its the same. The history of Resurrection was done in a manner I could not stop reading. I would like to see that same type of history done with Saint Roberts and about the Rt Rev Mnsr James Mulhern He was a wondufull person
Looking for Garrity family history. Came from Ireland or England in the late 1800's, early 1900's. My great-grandmother was Mary Garrity; married William Hoare; lived in the Abington, PA area; had two sons: William and Edmund (my Grandfather). Mary Hoare died as a young woman - late 20's early 30's (estimate the date around 1930). The only other information I have is that Mary had a brother Thomas Garrity.
does anyone remember the saying, what chester makes makes chester? i went to chester high and i graduated in 1974.i was born and raised in the city of chester, i went to wetherill, then to smedley and then of course to the high.my family has lived in the city since the 1900'S.DOES ANYONE REMEMBER HILO JACKS, MY MOM USED TO WORK THERE IN THE LATE 60'S?
What a great site. Brings back alot of great memories.I will be back to see if anyone new comes on.Youy all know 1966 35th reunion is coming up.
My husband,Joe forgot to include me in inviting any old friends out there to feel free to greet me. Remember the great dances at the Colombus Center?
This is a refreshing change. As a "chesterite" since birth, it is good to be able to click on a link to see something positive about my home. I travel alot with the USN, and every chance I get I check into the Delcotimes via internet. Most times it depresses me to see my "HOME" on such a spiraling demise. I surely remember the earlier days of Chester, what a strong heritage to leave for our young brothers and sisters, please keep this site up!! I look forward to my recently ordered paraphenelia... Peace, Blessings and Prosperity!!Muss
Like many others, I read of the web site in the Daily Times and decided to check it out myself. Although I never actually lived in Chester, my family, starting with my maternal grandparents, owned and operated the Larkin House at 7th and Potter for many years. The last owners were my mother and father, Ray and Nellie Pandza, who sold the business in the late 80's. When I read about the old Chester web site, I thought how much my mom and dad would have enjoyed the contents of the site. I've heard so many stories from them about Chester. They have both passed away in the last three years and I would love to hear from anyone who remembers them, my aunt and uncle, former Larkin House proprietors, John and Helen Monkaitis, or just the Larkin House's delicious seafood on Friday nights! Also, I hope that someone can assist the webmaster with more information and photos on Our Lady of Vilna Church. Since I am of Lithuanian descent, I spent many Sundays and holidays at Our Lady of Vilna. My folks were married there and I was baptized there. I will look through my things at home..I know I must have a photo or two and hope that others will do the same.
One of my earliest and most vivid memories and my only link to the way life in Chester must have been at the turn of the last century was seeing the rag man, all dressed in black, riding his horse and wagon down my street in Sun Village. I was later told by my Father that the old man's name was ABIE KIBBIBLE and had been the rag man as far back as anybody could remember. Louis C.- my memories of COLUMBUS CENTER are: The KID GLOVES BOXING Tournament in 1956 or '57 and my grandfather walking from Johnson St. in Sun Village to Columbus Ctr. every Sunday morning to have a few with his cronies. This site brings back some great memories Best wishes - Chuck - formerly of Sun Village; Highland Gardens; 22nd + Edgmont and 4th + Hinkson.
Just a note from an old "oldtimer". Anyone out there in "Cyberland" that remembers me is CERTAINLY welcome to "get in touch"!
Looking for Carol Johnson of 15th Street. We had a lot of shared experiences together throughout our childhood. Carol if Angelcat@aol.com is you, e-mail me back. Graduate of 1969 class. YeeHA
This is beautiful. I just found it today, after reading the Daily Times. Thanks John. I grew up in Parkside, went to Media High School and didn't miss any Thanksgiving games with Chester Hi. What great times we had. When we had a day off at Media Hi, I went to Chester Hi with a couple of friends. The teachers were always nice and let me sit in classes. After high school, I worked as a bookkeeper at Kinney Shoe Store. I left there in February 1951. We used to go to the skating rink, the bowling alley, and of course we had a great selection of movie theatres. How about the Boyd Drugstore on Friday and Saturday nights after the show. In the '40's we used to have rooftop dances at the Y.W.C.A. What fun. The fellows from PMC (not the cadets) but the ones that were servicemen, used to come to all the dances. I live in the Aston area now. My maiden name was Andersen. Dad was the Justice of the Peach in Parkside for something like 23 years, prior to moving to Florida. I'd love to hear from anyone from that era. I graduated in 1948. I'll get back to you later.
Is anyone from Garden City and Nether Provendce, from the 1940s and 50s still out there? Bill Tonge
I lived on west 24th street for most of my life prior to joining the AirForce in 1970 prior to moving to 24th street we lived in Highland gardens. I saw Sacred Heart Hospital built went to Ressurection then Saint Roberts and graduated from Saint James in 1969. Ive been back to Chester numerious times but now live in Phoenix arizona.
TO CHRISTINE DALTON
Hi! I read your posting at the "newstand" obviously. I just wanted to tell you that I remember your Grandfather. I don't remember him too much, as I was only about 8 yrs. old at the time. My Dad began his working life with the American Stores. He started working after school & Saturdays as a clerk in various stores in Chester[He worked on Morton Ave between 8th.& 9th. I think. He also worked at the store in Sun Hill. He became a manager & had his own store at 10th. & Parker for several years. I can remember a Mr. Michels coming in to the store a couple of times when I was there. He, unfortunately,had the distasteful job of coming into the store totally unexpectedly one Friday and announcing to my Dad that they were closing the store and that his services were no longer required. This was an earth shattering blow to my Dad. I don't think he ever fully recovered from it. Times were changing[as they are today] There was a brand new Acme Market[I believe it was Chester's first supermarket that opened at 9th. & Lincoln.] There was mention made here about stores selling things 'on the book' My Dad did that also,even though it was against Company policy. When the store was closed there were several hundreds of dollars owed to him An inventory was taken and he had to pay this amount out of his own pocket![He had to cash in his stock in the company] He never could collect anything from his former customers. Oh well,life goes on! Glad I was able to get this off my chest! My Dad was William S. Crowther & he is listed under grocery stores on the site! My Mother was very upset at all of this ,but I remember my Dad saying"It's not Mr. Michel's fault. He's only doing what he was told by head office!" It was good to hear from you Christine! Are you ,by any chance related to the Dalton's of bakery fame? Paul
Hi my name is Alice Maureen Kennard-Miller. I am also known as Reenie. I grew up in the Lamokin Village Projects, went to Booker T. Washington School, graduated from Frederick Douglass Jr. High School in '61 and Chester High School in '64. I still live in the City of Chester and attend St. Daniel's United Methodist Church. If anyone would like to contact us thru e-Mail concerning "Chester", etc. please do so. Our address is: alibob@verizon.net.
Excellent web site, full of memories!
I graduated from Eddystone High in 1954
!966 Graduate of Chester High. Chester was great then.
I went to Notre Dame in Moylan Pa and graduated in 1965
Very informative, hopefully others will sign on and provide you with more information about Chester. We are members of St Daniel'United Methodist Church at 315 Edwards Street, and we will be celebrating our 130 year anniversary in November of this year.
Hi, My name is Tanya Johnson and I am a native of Chester, but now reside in New York City. My mother, Evelyn Mitchell, and father, Greggory Tucker (the Tucker family of West 7th Street), still reside in Chester. As a child I went to St. Michael's catholic school, Smedley Middle School and then moved on to delaware at the age of 13. I have many fond memories of Chester. From age 7 through 12 I lived on 7th street where I befriended two lovely girls, Desiree Wolmack and Shakeeda Green. They will always be in my heart. I'm glad I grew up then (1980's), because back then was the a good to be young, to go swimming at the YMCA for just $2.00, to eat sunflower seeds and freez pops, to have known penny candy when it really cost just a penny, to play tag in the streets without fear having the neighborhood mother's on their steps chatting away with each other and watching over us. Life was grand then. I'd give up all of my success now to relive it just for one day. To those of you who are responsible for this website, thanks for the wonderful trip down memory lane. Desiree and Keeda - love always girls!!
Lived in Chester for most of my childhood from the late 40's to the mid 60's with fond memories. My father was Captain of the Chester Police force for many years, Marshall in the Pulaski Day Parades, and very involved in the West End. To whomever is responsible for this website, my sincere thanks. I just heard about it, and have really enjoyed browsing. Still have a lot to read and digest, but being that we cannot get the Local Papers, it is good to read great things about Chester. People have forgotten about the architecture that existed. We have lost sight of the historical values in Chester. We now see it as a city in ruin. There should be a way to salvage some of the old buildings and stained glass windows. Keep up the good work.
I was born and raised in Chester.Graduated Dewey Mann School in 1955, and Chester High School in 1960.I noticed that in the listing of Movie Theaters,the Roxy was missing. I think that it was located on 4th & Central Avenue. I have fond memories of the old Chester.
i am a 1951 grad of st michaels and 1955 st james. retired from the national weather service/ weather bureau after 39 years as a meteorologist. i was so happy find this site and appreciate all of the work put into it. i have a large picture of the original lloyd ac football team of 1924 given to me by paul mc kinney. if someone has a place to display the picture i will donate it. my father mickey cummings was one of the founders of lloyd ac, my mother mary call was the owner and operator of MORANS BAr at 11th and upland sts after the death of my step father john moran the long time owner until his death in 1967.
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Retired in 1994 after 49 years in banking. Live with my wife, Rose, in Sarasota, Florida. CHS class of 1948, previous Smedley JHS and Martin elementary.
GREAT site. looking for info about lloyd ac and the lloyd hayride accident in the the 1930s.
" LITTLE ERNIE " Toni, You are right. Little Ernie was " The Man " CUZ !
Hi! My name is Antoinette L. Derrickson. Does anyone remember anything about my family (Kinders). I went to Larkin and Franklin elementary schools in the 50's. Do you remember me?
It's Dave Burman here. Anyone remember me from Toby Farms Elementary (1964-68) and Franklin Elementary (1968-69)?? I am a radio news/sportscaster in Harrisonburg, Va. All my family still lives and works in Chester/Wallingford!! Love to hear from all of you!!! Great articles in Delco Times Monday!!
great site! born in chester, 1948, graduated from st.michaels, lived on west 11th street. moved to aston in 1962, graduated from notre dame in 1966. looking for joe narcavage-norris,graduated from P.M.C. saw him 14 years ago. if you have or find info. please contact me. thank you very much
I was very pleased to see you had an interest in Chester's history. I hold many fond memories as well, for I use to live across the street from Chester Park, where I had played when I was a child. I remember playing *tag* in the rose garden, & the sweet lady that had lived in a big white house which sat in the middle of the park. Her name was Mrs. Smedley, & she had always given my friends & I something cold to drink during those hot days of summer. Thanks for bringing back so many fond memories I had while I was growing up in Chester. Keep up the good work John ! Sincerely Sharyn M. Campbell
I AM THE PROUD DAUGHTER OF ONE OF CHESTER'S MOST POPULAR PERSONALTIES, "LITTLE ERNIE". FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO REMEMBER HIM YOU WILL REMEMBER THAT HE COULD BELT OUT A SONG LIKE NOBODY'S BUSINESS, NOT TO MENTION THAT PIANO AND ACCORDIAN HE COULD GIVE LIFE TO. BILL HALEY WAS KNOWN ALL OVER THE WORLD, BUT MY DAD WAS KNOWN BY EVERYBODY WHO WAS ANYBODY IN DELAWARE COUNTY. HE PLAYED FOR OUR SUPPER AND HE PLAYED AND SANG FOR FREE, BUT NO MATTER WHAT THE REASON, HE MADE A LOT OF PEOPLE HAPPY, AND MADE ALL THREE OF HIS DAUGHTERS AND HIS BELOVED WIFE PROUDER THAN PROUD.
This site is great JOhn, and I am not just saying that cause we're family! :)
To other visitors, although I was born and raised in Wallingford, I am the granddaughter of William G. Keesey Sr. (April 8, 1938-December22, 1993). He grew up on Morton Avenue in Chester and went to Chester High sometime in the 50's before marrying my grandmother, Barbara J. Comfort Keesey. I recently lived on Morton Avenue myself for a while. It sure has changed from the stories PopPop told me when I was little!
Hello All Great site !! It seems the newspapre article really increased the contributions. Any pictures or info on The Columbus Center on Pusey St. Was the hub of the Italian Community as well as the largest hall before Sun Center. Banquets, Minstrel Shows, even Hy Litt dances. Big bands etc. Any memories of the place?
Great site! FYI: I was employed by the William Rumford Co. in the 80's and early 90's At one time their office was located on ninth street behind the times building. The last time I was down there the sign was still visible on the rear wall in the alley. When I worked there the office was at the intersection of Providence Rd and Chestnut St the building is still there, and there is a plaque in the wall with the date when it was founded.
John, this is an excellent idea! I grew up in Chester. I am from the Chester High Class of 1960.We just had a our 40th Class Reunion in Nov. 2000. We always have a large turnout. My friends and family get together and create parties with discussions about the good old times and days in the city of Chester. I now reside in Atlanta, GA. but I never pass up a trip back to the city. I want my grandchildren to know all about this city.
JOHN, THANK YOU FOR THIS GREAT WEBSITE. IT'S A GREAT FORUM FOR GETTIN IN TOUCH WITH OLD FRIENDS AND CLASSMATES. WONDERFUL FOR TRACING FAMILY. THIS IS ONE OF THOSE IDEAS THAT MAKES ONE SLAP THEIR FOREHEAD AND SAY "WHY DIDN'T I THINK OF THIS?"
HEY ALL YOU WEST ENDERS! GRADUATED REZ 1964. REMEMBER HONEYSUCKLE AFAFTER THE FOOTBALL GAMES; THE DANCES AT ST. JAMES;THOSE ENDLESS MAY PROCESSIONS; THE 50-50 CLUB SCANDAL;DETENTION FOR SR. VIRGINIA WWAS WEEDING THE CONVENT GARDEN ( WE EVEN MADE THAT CHORE FUN);FR. DDUFFY; THE SAFETY PICNIC AT LENAPE PARK? OH, THOSE WERE THE DAYS. LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU. LOVE, MONICA (MICKEY)
Great to see this! I am always on EBAY searching for Chester, Pa. collectibles. I may be only 46 yrs. old but my fondest memories are of growing up in Edgmont Park, with Chester Rural Cemetary as my back yard!
St. Michaels, class of 1968.
Enjoyed the site very much, so did my mother and sisters. Keep up the good work!
Great web site....Thanks John. Chester was a wonderful place to grow in. Anyone remember the "rag man"? He drove a horse drawn wagon through Chester. "Any old rags today"? Dalton's bakery Sunday morning after church. Delicious smells, and hot snowflake rolls for Sunday dinner. Those were the days!
I was born on Feb. 14, 1940 at Chester Hospital. Parents were Frank A. Conner Sr. and Margaret Conner. We lived at 518 Parker St. My father was a long standing member of the Franklin Fire Co(known as CAPT. Conner, once was the captain of the Franklin rescue squad).He also was the Fire marshall at the Ford Motor Co. My brother Paul is a long standing member of the Hanley Fire Co(1960 and on. As a young boy in the 50's I remember delivering prescription's as well as other items on my bike from Bullock's drugstore. All pictures and reminders of days of old were lost in the flood at Eyre park in 1972/73.
Had to come back again ! Does anyone remember Mrs Goodsy ? She ran a little store out of her garage that separated McCafferty Village from Buckman Village ? McGlone's store, in the rear of 12th & Highland Ave.? McCloskey's Tavern on 9th St. My dad was on the pool league there, they called him " Tex ". Gino's ? Can't forget the " Gino Giant " ! The Honeysuckle, the best milkshakes around. The old Penn Fruit ! I can go on and on. The friday night dances they held at the McCafferty Village community center ! Oh , Jerry's Diner, on 9th street, across from the Vesuvio ! Bernie's Gulf station, on 9th and Price streets in Trainer ! Go cart racing down Buckman hill ! So many memories, and all great ones that come back to you, . Anyone have any stories of the old neighborhood ( McCafferty Village ) they'd like to share, I'd really like to hear from you. Thanks again for the webpage, and bringing back some fond memories.
DO YOU HAVE ANY PICTURES OF "WHAT CHESTER MAKES, MAKES CHESTER", THE SIGHN ON 6TH STREET. ALSO " ELECTRICITY IS CHEAP IN CHESTER".
DO YOU HAVE ANY PICTURES OF THE SOUTHERN PENN BUS BARN THAT WAS 14TH AND EDGMONT STREETS?
I was so facinated when I opened the Daily Times today and saw that Chester has it's very own website. I was born in Chester, in the now razed McCafferty Village. I was born on Desmond Place. (not sure of the exact address) And I also think it's great that the city is considering bringing in new jobs and oppurtunities to the people of Chester and surrounding areas. Just when they said Chester was dead, NO, not at all, thanks to people who believe that anything is possible, they are making it Possible, by putting Chester back on the map, where it belongs. I should have some old pictures around somewhere, maybe I can share them with everyone. Well, I think I said enough, again, just please keep up the good work on this site, the people of Chester,and former residents, deserve to see their heritage seen and heard. Thabk you.
chester high class 1949 Thanks
This is my first visit to the website.
I'm a lifelong resident of Chester, born in 1938 in the West End. Attended St Hedwig's Grammer School and St. James High School. I currently reside on 20th St.in the 1st Ward.
I have very fond memories of what Chester was like in the '40's & '50's, especially downtown. It was great!
Thank you for your efforts in creating this web site. I look forward to exploring it further. I hope I will be able to contribute to it.
I have an older brother, Tony, who now resides in Beaver Dam, Virginia (northeast of Richmond)
I enjoyed reading the Daily Times and all about the good old days of Chester in today's paper. Both my husband (John (Bud) Martin) and I were born and raised in Chester and have a lot of happy memories. Graduated from Chester High in '52. Friday night dances at St. Mike's. The newstand. Walking from Chester High to Chester to have a soda at the Boyd Drug. Going to the football games at PMC and the night before Thanksgiving going to the snake dance through all of the theatres in Chester and then the bon fire and then teasing the Media people. What times we had. Also, John Bullock: I didn't know your father growing up in Chester but later met him at Christ United Methodist Church when Madison Street merged with our church. He was a nice man. This is great.
John,
Great website! I was born and raised in the City of Chester in the late 1940's. Chester was a great place to grow up in. Went to St. Robert's and then to St. James H.S. Worked in the Scott Paper Chester plant back in the late 1960's Your website brought back many pleasant memories. I still have family in Chester. Keep up the good work!
Iwent to Smedley Junior High School and Chester High School.I taught third grade in Martin School and third and sixth grade in Stetser School. We closed Martin School and opened the new Stetser School.
I was so facinated when I opened the Daily Times today and saw that Chester has it's very own website. I was born in Chester, in the now razed McCafferty Village. I was born on Desmond Place. (not sure of the exact address) And I also think it's great that the city is considering bringing in new jobs and oppurtunities to the people of Chester and surrounding areas. Just when they said Chester was dead, NO, not at all, thanks to people who believe that anything is possible, they are making it Possible, by putting Chester back on the map, where it belongs. I should have some old pictures around somewhere, maybe I can share them with everyone. Well, I think I said enough, again, just please keep up the good work on this site, the people of Chester,and former residents, deserve to see their heritage seen and heard. Thabk you.
What a wonderfull site. I read the Times every day via. E Mail. I was the first full time photographer on the old Chester Times when it was next door to the synagogue on 8thst. Have been living in Florida for the past 13 years. Would be nice to hear from some of the "old" Chester gang.
WOW! This is great. I think about Chester all the time and ALL the fun I had growing up there. I was borned and raised in Chester along with the rest of my sister and one brother. My mother was also raised in chester. Her family lived on 6th and Butler. The last name was Ragni and I believe the last Ragni living in Chester just passed away this week. Orlando Ragni and I think he was 89, but I'm not sure. Orlando still has some family left that just may be able help with some of the history of Chester. Let me say what a great job you did putting this website together. Now I can show my children what it was like growing up in Chester. I plan to visit it a lot. THANKS!
John Bullock I want to thank you for this site you provide us with. I find it extremely interesting because I was born in Chester, Pa, along with my seven brothers and six sisters who also were born in Chester in the same house at 2nd and Parker St. We were the Mc Carthy family and I am sure are known by a lot of viewers of this site. Chester was a great place to grow up in. I have so many fond memories of the city of Chester and of the good people who lived there. I remember going to your Dad's Pharmacy and having a soda. Chester was a safe city then and we had many good movie theaters, restauraunts, dept. stores and corner grocery stores. We had parks, play areas and were able to walk to where-ever we were going or else take a bus for 10 cents. Not too many people had cars when we were growing up! I am looking forward to getting the video about Chester, Pa. I now live in Linwood, Pa. but will always remember growing up in Chester with my Mom and Dad and my beautiful loving family. They were such happy days! Chester, Pa was such a good City and wish it could be that way again. It could be, if everyone would just get together and make it that way. Thanks again John Bullock for this site.
What a great website. My dad was born and raised in Chester. He's 84 years old now and I can't wait to show it to him. I'll try to find some pictures he has of old chester and send them out.
This is wonderful! Now I can show my husband (who is from Texas)that Chester was a great city to grow up in. Thanks to all involved with this web site!
Judy
Born and raised in Eddystone which is real close to Chester. I remember taking the trolly to the Washington Theater to catch a all day movie. Nickle for the trolly and eleven cents for the movie. Fireworks and the concerts at Chester Park. Buying new clothes for Easter on Market Street. Many good menories growing up in the area. Great web site.
I was born in the old Chester hospital back in 1949.My parents lived on Wilson st. before moving to Boothwyn.As a kid,I remember taking a bus with my mother to go shopping in Chester and to the movies.Remember going to the HoneySuckle on 9th st for ice cream.Had a aunt that lived on Meadow Lane for years and remember walking from Boothwyn to her house,all the factories,bussiness,etc.Does any one remember the Genos at 9th and Booth?
Website brings back a lot of memories from my "growing up" years. Halloween parades, movies on Saturdays, date night at Shooster's, prom gowns from Weinbergs. Cruisin' on Friday nights. Everyone's memories help bring back more of my own - Chester Park Band Concerts. Sledding and skating in Chester Park. Learning how to swim at "the Rock". Thank you John for the wonderful website. I certainly will keep coming back. '53 Grad of Nether Providence HS.
My parents ran the grocery store on 3rd st between LLOYD and Pusey Sts. next door was Molla's Flower Shop. Went to St Anthonys, St. James and PMC. anyone who reads this and knows me feel free to E-Mail me. -like an old girl friend. Ha Ha
just found the site. can't wait to share it with the other St James class mates I still hang with.
I was born in chester and raised in upper chi but remember fondly the market trips to hilo jacks with my parents every fri night, then shopping in town on saturday when all of the merchants would have their goods out on the sidewalks...also alot of good times with my dad and grandfather at the west end boat club.
Looking for information on the Abbott family from Chester. In particular I am looking for information on Henry Abbott, Harry Abbott, or Howard Abbott.
My grandfather, Joseph Michels, was a manager of the American Stores in the late 1940's through his retirement. Joseph Michels and his wife, Anna Erdmann Michels lived on 19th street, the end house. Joseph Michels raised chickens on the property and my grandmother sold the eggs. I used to deliver the eggs to various people on 18th and 19th street. I lived in Chester, on 8th Street, as a child, from 1947-1954. After I married, I lived at 23rd and Upland street from 1971-1976.
MY SISTER AND I WERE JUST TALKING ABOUT THIS LOOKING UP THINGS ABOUT CHESTER,WE STILL LIVE HERE...THIS IS SO GREAT!!!
Sun Ship published a magazine titled "Our Yard." I am seeking issues that contain information about Raymond J. Flanigan, who resided at 208 E. 21st Street. Your help is appreciated.
Sincerely, Pat
GREAT TO SEE ALL THESE POSTS!!!! UNREAL!! WISH I COULD TALK TO EVERYONE. I LIVE IN VA. DAD (1955 Chester HS Grad)) STILL HAS BURMAN' PHARMACY IN CHESTER. BROTHER'S STEVE AND MARTY VERY BUSY UP THERE. MY MOM, SANDRA ELMAN BURMAN (1956 Chester HS Grad), SAYS HELLO TO ALL. My mom and dad can be reached at 610-874-0488!!
Thanks
Dave Burman
Born & Raised in Chester & the immediate area. How I long for those days of going to the Y at 7th Street and the Mac movie on Saturdays.
enjoyed looking through the chester websight, I lived my first 24 years in chester and would not change a thing. Graduated from Chester high in 1952- a great class with wonderful people. Thanks for the look back at what chester was.
Great Web Site!!!!
I'm posting some current news about someone from chester. My daugther her name is Ericka D. Tillery and she was a 1997 graduate of C.H.S. Well this year she became Edinboro University of Pa. first every African American Homecoming Queen. She was featured in the Daily Times and also the April edition of the the Ebony Magazine. This may not be the kind of information that you were looking for but I thought it was important. Know for some old news I was reading the Daily Times today and when you talked about the movie theater's in Chester it brought back a lot of memories. My father was the manager of the Apollo,Strand and the Mac. His name is William D. Caulk and some people called him Caulkie, or Mr. Mac even though Mr. Mac was the owner. But everyone still says to him when they see him " Hey I remember when you use to put me out of the movie".
do you remember cheap johns? great web site
Born 17 DEC, 1944 to David and Rebecca Borcky, I lived in Chester, Pa. until 1964. I entered the U.S.N. and served 7 yrs. I spent two tours in Viet Namn and now live in McFarland Ca. I enjoy all forms of music and have played in two small bands in Ca. I would love to hear from anyone from the old home town
Born, in Chester,Pa in the 40's raised in Media, Pa on lieper st,the early part of my life. it was really a pleasure to come back to my old landmarks, just like comming home. keep up the good work boobe
THANKS FOR ALL YOUR HARD WORK, THIS IS GREAT.
Did anyone go to St. Anthony's School on Third Street in Chester?The year 1956.
I was born at Chester Hospital in 1956, my dad was born in the same hospital in 1930. He had many fond memories of growing up in Chester. We spent many shopping days downtown. My dad's parents moved to Chester from Scotland in the twenties. Thank you for all the information.
John MacIntyre, one of my four brothers, is the only one still living in Chester, 2219 Madison St. Jim lives in Essex Junction, VT, Rich in Lititz, PA, Gordon in Williamsburg, VA. I remember the great times growing up in Chester: the Wilson Liner, Chester Park, Scouts at 1st Presbyterian Church, and the good basketball teams we used to have at Chester High School.
I'am trying to find any info on my grandfather and his family, who lived and worked in and around Chester all his life. He and my grandmother lived on Parker St. between 3rd and 5th,they had 10 children,and he was a Chester city mounted policeman, around 1938-39. His name was Vincent June, better known as Jimmy June, my grandmothers name was Martha June, they belonged to St Anthony's Church he was a member of Knights of Columbus on 3rd St. Trying to get some info for genealogy am trying to put together. loved reading all the comments, remember many things I spent many Sat. afternoons at the Great Leopard,while my mother and father went shopping, also remember one year a tree from my grandfather's home in Twin Oaks (by that time)was used for the city tree which used to stand at Stoddards on the circle, we went to tree lighting, and it was really something. Does anyone remember the way Stoddards used to process each sale, when they would put your money and sales slip into a little container and it would be send over a wire trolley (sort of) up to the office on the top floor, and they would make change and return the container to the salesperson. Great site thanks, to webmaster
Read about the site in today's newspaper
As a past black student of Douglass Junior High School, I was saddened to hear about the death of a dedicated and committed English schoolteacher at that school: Mrs. Roberta Gibbs Lewis. She should be noted in oldchesterpa.com just as Horace Walker because perhaps he was taught by her if he attended Douglass. She saw potential in every student especially those who enjoyed learning the structures of the English language.
I attended Douglass 1952-1955 and Mr. Beverly Blow was the principal at that time. Douglass was an academic school for grades 7 thru 9, and if academically inclined, you were passed to Chester High Schoool: grades 10 - 12.
Hopefully, someone will provide more info re Douglass which was located at 7th and Central Avenues. Perhaps if requested on the oldchesterpa website page, other data would be submitted. I have been telling every classmate I see and etc. about the website for Chester. Thanks for John Bullock and Terry and I hope it will continue to grow so that those unaware will know "what chester makes, makes chester" is all about.
great site. Grew up in Upland - St. Robert's 1947 - Notre Dame 1951 - live in Brookhaven, in 1958 married William F. Birkofer, St James 1952, Ressurection Parish - 1948. Have 2 daughters, Julie & Jane. Bill retired from Chester High School (guidance counselor) 1993 - Would like to have a runion of St Robert's 1947, 8th grade, if any one knows of one, I'm interested. We also have a condo in Naples FL. Read the Del Co Daily Times on line every day. MJB
I was born in 1924. I was the Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Fusco. We lived on 2nd Street. Went to all the Sites and Remembered everything all the sites described. If anyone wishing to get in touch with me I am still living in Chester you may email me and I will tell you all about what Chester is like now. It will make you cry!
Great site very enjoyable...thanks for the memories
Just read about this site in today's newspaper. Born, raised, and still live here. Graduated CHS class of 69. Alot of these things bring back memories. Great Site!! Will pass along to friends who have moved away!! Thanks!!
I worked in Chester from 1956 to 1976. First with Chester Lincoln Mercury at 6th & Madison Sts, then with the Delaware County National Bank at 4th & Market Sts.
T FRANK MCCALLS IS CELEBRATING ITS 125TH ANNIVERSARY THIS YEAR. BEING AT THE SAME LOCATION OF 6HT AND MADISON STS. IN CHESTER. THEY HAVE LONG ENJOYED A PROSPEROUS RELATIONSHIP IN THE COMMUNITY.
I was born in Chester Hospital in 1951, grew up in Parkside which wasn't very far from Chester Park. I used to remember the summers at the park in early 60's where I used to play "box hockey", do arts and crafts, there was so much to do in those days in the summer. Played baseball for Chester Park where we used to play against the other parks, the baseball equipment room was underneath that old barn which was the coolest place on a hot day, tennis lessons wow those were fun, after lessons we would quench our thirst with Lemon-Coke from Halls. The fireworks on the 4th can be seen from my parents backyard on Roland Rd. The wintertime in Chester Park couldn't wait for it to snow. Sledding down Elkington Blvd steep street which at the time were laid with bricks and going down "deadman's curve" by the waterfalls to avoid that big boulder. Ice skating in Chester Park was fun, going toward Waterville Rd was the best place to skate and play hockey with limbs from the tree and a can or a stone, because the ice was untouched. Anyone still remember that old water fountain where spring water would come out this was near Waterville Rd also? There is so much more to remember. That was Chester to me.
My Dad drove busses for the old Southern Pennsylvania Bus Co. My memories are of the 40s.My sister and I would ride his bus into Chester from Marcus Hook. Have an icecream soda at the old Silver's 5&10, and buy some paperdolls. We would get back on the bus in front of Silver's, after his turn around in Parkside. Wonderful memories: Thank You.
Chester High Class of 1966. This site is great. Born in Crozier in 1947 and grew up in Chester. Wetherill Elementry, Smedley Jr. High, Chester High. Apollo Theater on a Saturday all-dayer (2 B-Movies, Coming Attractions, New Reels, 5 to 7 cartoons and a Serial - 10 cent cokes and 10 bags of popcorn). The Mac, The Boyd, The State. Going to the Boyd and State expecially and watching the movie 2 or 3 times in a row to get out of the August heat. My mom worked at Rogers and then at the old Chester Times. Dad worked at Sinclar. I worked a couple of summers at the old Diamond Ice House at 2nd and Tilghman. Good old days. Lintons on 9th and Butler. Lee's Record Shop under the bridge next to the train station. Chester Central YMCA. Woolworths and McCorys. Bowling at the Penn Rec and getting 5 games for a dollar during the hot summers (they had air). Simmons Hobbie Shop, Spears and Sears. Jumping the fence surrounding Chester High Athletic Field to play ball inside. Endless baseball games a Crozier Park and Chester Park. Sleding in the winter at Chester Park (the ski-jump). The best basketball in the County at Chester Park and the Cage (1966-1972). All people see now is how Chester is at present. What a shame. It was a beautiful place to grow up. Glad I was forturate enough to do so. Wouldn't have it any other way.
Just found the oldchester web site. It sure brought back a lot of memories. My wife and I were born in chester. I graduated in 1948 from CHS, worked at Scott Paper, retiring in'89 to Lewes De. My wife lived in Garden City, graduating in '50 from Nether Providence H.S.
Dave Komarnicki's guest article in the Times this past week was nostalgic and very moving. He identified many of the places familiar to people who grew up in that part of Chester--near both Larkin School and Smedley JHS. His tribute to a lost friend reminds us of the classmates no longer with us
This is a wonderful website. Full of information and I love the old pictures. I will ask my church to fill in their information. I have been looking for something like this for a long time. Thank You.
No matter where I live Chester will always be in my heart. It was a wonderful place in grow up in. What wonderful memories
I'm looking for info on police officer Leander Tassoni. I believe his name has been omitted from police chief or detective list.
Enjoyed the site. We're both born and raised in the city. Thanks for your efforts!
I am 40 yrs old and my stepfather grew up in Chester.Over the years he has told us stories about the "old Chester" and how beautiful it was in its heyday,how there was always something to fun to do and how all the neighborhoods were broken up by ethnicity and how everyone got along together.Since I lock my door while driving through Chester now and avoid it as much as I can for fear of being carjacked, I thought it would be nice to see it as my father did...Thanks..now I can show my children that yes POPPOP is telling the truth and that Chester was once a grand old town......I enjoyed the sight very much !!!
Read article in this mornings Daily Times "Great Job". I lived and worked in Chester all of my life.Both myself and my father worked at the former Scott Paper Co.he for 47 years and I for 38 many happy and fond memories .Hope to spend more time looking on this great site. JIM
Does anyone remember back in the 50's when a train hit an A&P tractor trailer at 12th & Edgemont? It sure was a mess and there was produce,fresh fish,dairy products and canned goods all over the intersection.What a site!People were walking down the street with a case of butter under one arm and a big fresh fish under the other.The A&P was next to the Edgemont Diner and across the street from Brennans Barber Shop.
Thank you to John Bullock for all the great memory"s I have relived while checking out your web site.
This is a great website. Thanks to John Bullock for maintaining it and to the Delaware County Daily Times for making it known to me. Though I have naver lived in the city,worked here for four years as director of adult program at the Chester YWCA, and I have worked on behalf of a number of in a number of city concerns for almost 50 years.
I grew up at 272l w.third st. nex-door to the Lyric theater. wonderful happy memories were made there- I love this site !
I think this web site is the most interesting sit that I have seen in quite a while. I am glad for the interest again in my home town.
great website, brings back a-lot of memories. Born and raised in chester lived there for 65 years!
Fantastic site John, My grandparents lived right accross from St. Hedwick's rectoy in the 30's and my dad worked at the Chester Ford assembly plant till the day it closed. Thanks also for the link to my Philly Food business on your links page. Continued good luck, Joe Kubicky Media, PA.
I just want to thank you for putting Chester back on the MAP!
Found this wonderful site and had to respond from Maryland. I livedinEssington and took the trolley to Chester over the swaying bridge to shop at Chester as a kid.My dad was the drummer/percussionist/soloist with Chester City Bank in 40's and 50's.Loved concerts in deShong Park.
My relatives are buried in Chester Rural Cemetary and I am looking for more of my family. My grandfather's name is John Morton Mansley and my mother said if I ever researched the family I might find we are related to John Morton, signer of the Decloration of Independence. My father's name is John Bullock Mansley and I have no idea where the Bullock came from so I am hoping to find out all about my family. My great-grandmother remarried an Agnew after my great-grandfather's death. My grand mother's maiden name is Cartledge. If any one can give me any information I would be most grateful.
My husband and I back in the early 50's used to take the trip from Philadelphia to the Stanley Theater, when they were showing a feature we hadn't seen as yet.
John,
This is a great site. Chester was a great place to grow up and live in. I have memories of visiting your dad's pharmacy for a soda. Also had many good times visiting your grandmother and my great aunt Lizzie when I was her paperboy in the mid fifties.
Hope your family is well
Bill
GROWIN UP IN CHESTER, PLAYING STEET GAMES LIKE HIDE AND SEEK, CRACK THE WHIP ALWAYS BRINGS BACK FOUND CHILDHOOD MEMORIES. ATTENDING THE PUBLIC SHOOL SYSTEM AND PLAYING INTERLEAGUE SPORTS FOR CHESTER HIGHT SCHOOL ARE STILL FRESH IN MY MIND.
I AM CURRENTLY A MARYLAND RESIDENT, WORKING IN WASHINGTON, D.C.
AFTER EIGHT YEARS IN THE NAVY AND TRAVELING ALL OVER THE WORLD I HAVE ALWAYS KEPT THE MEMORY'S OF CHESTER IN MY HEART.
BY LIVING IN MARYLAND AND ONLY 100 MILES AWAY, WITH FAMILY STILL IN CHESTER I AM ABLE TO VISIT AT LEAST ONCE A MONTH.
I lived in Chester for 12 years..I started out in Lincoln School and went 1 year at Franklin Junior High School. I lived at 7th and Lloyd streets in Chester..I remember going to Chester at Christmas time with all the lights and my parents letting my brother and i go in and out the stores looking for gifts..WE were about 7yr and 10 yr old..The church bus in the summer picking us up to go to Bible school at Bible Pres. on 13th and Potter..Also bing able to sled in the middle of the street when we had those really big snows..Very few cars to worry about..Also running after the ice man in the summer on Pennell Street...Going to the circus at LLoyd Field in the summer..Kelly's Cafe on the corner of 8th street..And walking to the State movies with my parents..(to see the Long Long Trailer with Lucille Ball and Desie Arnez)..Going to Stotters and waiting in that long line to see Santa Claus..Being on the radio in Chester With Once Upon a Time..A program put on by students from Franklin School under the supervision of George Sharp..Well these are just a few of my memories of Chester..I'm sure if i had time i could think of lots more..Glad to read this article in the Daily times today..Looking forward to reading other memories.. Alice Pruitt Lauser
I'm very impressed. It brings back memories of getting dressed up on Friday evening and going for a walk downtown. The smells of the tobacco in the newspaper shop behind Larkin Elementary School, the fairs at Chester Hospital (the lemon stuck with a candy stick we all loved to hate), the Christmas music played by the firehouse on 9th street , the smell of I don't know what walking up the steps of the library I believe on 9th street. The special treat of getting a penny candy at "Old Lady Logans" candy store on Potter Street. Summer Bible School at the Third Presbyterian Church at 9th and Madison. Thanks for the memories! Bonnie Faith Brendley
Thank you for such a wonderful website! I am a grand-daughter of Carl A. Doubet. Grandfather opened his jewelry store in Chester in 1901 and at one time or another, his children worked there with him. My father, Joe and mother Joyce, currently own their own jewelry store in Media, Pa. I loved going shopping in Chester or just going to the store to see my Dad, grandfather or uncles. There was a small walkway in the middle of the front windows. While putting the inventory in each a.m my father would often entertain the children walking to St. Michael's for school. They would stop and watch him do his famous "taking his thumb off" trick or to simply say "hi". Many people over the years have said how my grandfather was a walking fashion statement in his pearl-studded spats, top-hat and cane. The store was known for it's fine diamonds. Brides-to-be would rush into their Bridal Registry. The cases were filled with beautiful merchandise.
My parent's often say" It's hard to explain to people what Chester once was--it's hard to believe it's the way it is now." I have always loved hearing their stories of Chester in the "50's. So many people have come into the Media store store talking about this website and they all love it. Congratulations, John Bullock!
I moved to chester in 1969 went to chester high, played football, and graduated in 1971. I still live here and love the city. looking forward to a class reunion this year. Any "71" grads please holler back.
What a nifty idea. Was this original(not that that is important),or do other communities or towns have such a site? At any rate, I am glad this one exists.
MYBEARLIEST MEMORIES OF CHESTER.PA. OCCUR DURING WORLD WAR 2 WHEN THE CITY REACHED IT'S LARGESTPOPULATION.MY FAMILY LIVED AT 3RD & KERLIN ST. WOULD APPRECIATE ANY HELP FROM WEB SITE REFERING TO FENNELL FAMILY.
hi! 50 yrs old---grew up in ridley twp worked 30yrs @ MEDFORDS 18 W 2ND ST served 2 terms as president YMRC (young mens republican club)located 621 welsh st currently a carrier for delco times--serving brookhaven,parkside, upland,feltonville and aston "JOHN'S DOGGIE SHOP"-----been going there for over 40 years we made the hot dogs at medfords used by the sauce boss--- they used hot dogs that were 14 to a pound
good morning, i came across this web site in today`s paper,and remembering what a great town chester was in my youth......i don`t have the time right now to go through the whole thing but rest assured i will soon...thanks for all your work in setting this up
hello im a daughter of chester natives, can anyone help me with stories of my mom and her family and my dad does any one know them her name was catherine massey her sister is emma massey, my da is francis fuller his mother was alice fuller they lived on jeffrey st any thing would be wonderful. alice coale
my father was a pharmacist in chester about 1950--store was next to ywca -can't recall name--
"FROM ONE EXTREME TO ANOTHER" ! CHESTER WAS A BEAUTIFUL CITY AND MY RESEARCH REVEALED THAT IT WAS ONCE RANKED THE 10TH CITY OF ITS SIZE IN RETAIL SALES MANY YEARS AGO. HOWEVER, NOW THE CITY IS PLAGUES WITH POVERTY, UNFIT HOUSING, DRUGS, CRIME, THE STATE TOOK OVER THE SCHOOL DISTRICT BECAUSE OF ITS POOR PERFORMACE, NO FORM OF STRUCTURED ENTERTAINMENT-EXCEPT FOR CORNER BARS INDUCING GUNFIGHTS, WELFARE PLAGUED, CONTAINED THE LARGEST TOXIC CONCENTRATION OF CHEMICAL PLANTS IN THE U.S.
JOHN,
SAW THE ARTICLES BY TERRY PETERS IN MONDAY'S (13 AUG 01) EDITION OF THE DELCO TIMES!!! FANTASTIC!!!!
SINCERELY
DAVE BURMAN
Was checking out the site at the request of a friend. It's really neat to read so many interesting things that people remember about the Chester area. Spent lots of time at the Great Leopard skating rink, as well as 7th and Crosby.
This Chester Home Page is the best. I visit is offen. I am looking for a lady who name is Doris Ann Covey, she used to live 25th street off of Providence Ave. She had a Sister Georgianna, and a brother. She graduated from Chester High School and Work as a Sect. at the old Sun Ship Building Co. from 1963 to 1968. She later Married, A man from Wilm. Del. Named William Deputy. Any one knows where she is I would be greatly appreciated. Would like to chat with her for about the old days.
I just saw a item in the Delco Times which mentioned Charlie's Original Hamburgers. They used to be in Springfield across from the Springfield Public Pool. We used to take the 69th St bus to swim and get a burger at at Charlie's before taking the bus back to Chester.I'd like to know their new location.
"Happy", the water ice man, was Stanley Merkle (or Merkel). He lived in Eddystone on 9th Street, was married and had one son. He started his business pulling a wagon. This was replaced in time with a "woody" station wagon converted for his unique store on wheels. He kept - and used - a stick in quick reach to whack pilferers knuckles. In the 1950's he upgraded to a step van. Happy died some years ago.
I love this site.
I'm still looking for Sam Savini. Sam would be about 63 now. He lived on Highland Ave near 11th St in the early 50's. Sam had an older sister that suffer with polio. Sam may have attended St. James. He may be in the high school class of 1956. If anyone knows him please email me.
I'm also looking for my younger brother John Wood. Johnny will turn 49 this month (August). The last time I heard from him he was living in the Georgia vicinity. Johnny lived in Highland Gardens when he was very young. His teenage years were spent on Shaw Terrace and 15th Street. We have a sister Rachel as well. She hasn't heard from him either. I'm hoping he has a few Chester friends he keeps in touch with.
My first home was 1218 Crosby Street where I lived with my grandmother, Augusta News, my aunts, Augusta and Nellie and my mother, Katherine. My father was overseas (1943). I moved away when my father returned, but I still remember walking to the market with my grandmother. I remember her good neighbors, Mr. and Mrs. Fox and Mrs. Reddin. It was a wonderful place. My aunts and mother are quite well and living in Florida now.
This is a great site and I really enjoy it and everyone's memories even though I am not from nor have I ever been in Chester. Would someone mind telling me what the Chester Clippers are? I am still looking for a girlfriend named Joan Watson that lived in Phoenix in about 1958. She lived in Chester prior to that and moved back to Chester graduating from Chester High School in 1964. Does anyone remember her or know where she might be? I thought she might find this site and post a message one day. I would appreciate any help. Thanks, Betty from Phoenix
Hi,
Does anyone remember AIRY HILL FARM? I believe if was near Chadd's Ford (maybe a little south of there) off Concord Pike.
Spread the word on Nether Providence HS 25th year reunion website. The address is:
www.geocities.com/nphs76/reunion.html
The reunion is Friday December 28th at Springhaven Country Club!! Spread the word!!
Thanks
Dave Burman
Nancy Klotz Long, Alfie Lutz sold his home in Clayton, DE a few months ago. I don't know where he moved to. I remember his house in Village Green, it was a brick rancher on the north side of Penell Rd. near the five points. Carole
Olive Smith's daughter Theodore and Eunice Smith's grandaughter
Does anyone remember the Brandywine Ice Cream guy? He had some of the best ice cream you could buy, the trouble was for six cents it was the smallest ice cream cone you could get. His favorite saying was, " Get Your Ice Cream before Brandywine leaves" He rode around in an open sided panel truck, and rang a school bell.
Looking for Joey Piela. Graduated from Eddystone High School in 1960 or 1961. I went to his Sophomore Dance and he went to my Junior Dance at Notre Dame. Are you still in Delaware County?
ART HYNET (NOT SPELLED CORRECTLY) PLAYED THE ORGAN IN THE AREA, MAYBE HE PLAYED AT THE GREAT LEOPARD SKATING RINK...
HERE I BE AGAIN LIKE A BAD PENNY JUST KEEP COMING BACK. HAVE MADE SEVERAL COMENTS IN THE NEWS STAND BUT NEVER SAID WHERE I LOVEDI LIVE IN ALIEN CITY AKA.ROSWELL NEW MEXICO AND TO ANSWEREVERYONES QUESTION THE ANSWER IS YESYOU CAN SPOT THEM DOWNTOWN IF THEY DO NOT HAVE LEEVIES BOOTS OR COWBOY HATS ON. WE COME THEM TOURISTS.YO'AL HAVE A GREAT PA DAY.TO PAULIF YOU LIVE ABOVE THE 59 PARALELL. YOU LIVE CLOSER TO THE NORTH POLE THAN THE EQUATOR. ZAC ANY BELIVERS. OUT THERE??
Hi Mary! Yes,I remember the "mosquito brigade " coming around our neighborhood.[ Highland Gardens] Can't say I remember it being a jeep though. I think it was DDT. We were always glad to see it come even though we couldn't breathe too well for a while. We also had a spring across the road from us where we got our drinking water. This was when we were getting water from the Delaware River. At some time in the 1940's the City switched to some really good water from the Octoraro [sp?] Dam. Not too long after the City closed the spring saying it was contaminated. I guess between the DDT and the water I'm lucky to still be alive! You haven't lived until you drank water from the Delaware!
Thank you, John, this is a great site! Brings back so many memories. Anyone remember the "mosquito man?" We used to wait for him as if he were the ice cream man. He came around to our neighorhood (Irvington area--25th & Providence) in the summer. Guess he worked for the City. He had a jeep with tanks of insecticide that he would emit off the back of the jeep. All the kids would run in the thick, white clouds of chemicals where you couldn't see your hand in front of your face. It was probably DDT. It was great, free entertainment! Don't know if our parents knew that we did this! Anyway, haven't noticed any ill effects, yet!
John thanks for the info.
YO PAUL YOU DON'T NEED ANY HELPING IN CONFUSING ME NOW A DAYS ZAC
Hi Chester. I remember going to St.James High and dating some girls from Chester.I cannot believe it was 35 years ago. Drew Baron Benton, Arkansas
Just wanted to add my name to list... I am on the committee making plans for CHS 1947 Class reunion. Tenative date June 7,2002.
TO PATTIDI HEY!
HEY, DO NOT REMEMBER MRS. CURRAN, GIRL SCOUT LEADER FROM ST. MICHAEL'S BUT DO REMEMBER MICKEY DESMOND AND ANN SPANIER....
HEY,
Hi...yes...I remember Happy the water ice man. 5 cents!! Anyone remember the name of the fellow who played the organ at the Great Leopard? Anyone know where he is? Graduated Notre Dame 1968.
Well, Folks, this is my very first entry ever at "The Newsstand"! Hope I get it right! <G> Since Craig posed the question here, I thought I should post the answer here in case others are curious about it too.
Craig,
Thanks for asking about Dad's drugstore, "Bullock's Pharmacy". Dad (John A. Bullock, Jr.) operated the store for 32 years from 12/17/1932 until 12/31/1964 at 720 Parker Street, just behind Chester High. He and my Mother (Evelyn Keesey Bullock) originally purchased what was a row house, lowered the floor in the front two rooms for the store and during the early years they lived upstairs and the back of the first floor was their dining room and kitchen. Later when they moved to 517 W 7th St., the rest of the store was opened up, booths were installed upstairs (along with a "dumb waiter") and the soda fountain (gone by my time in the mid 1950's) became a regular spot for CHS students to hang out. I'd be interested to hear from any CHS students who could tell me when the soda fountain was removed! The store was sold to a fellow Delaware County pharmacist, Anthony Nino. Mr. Nino continued to operate the store for only a few years (perhaps 5?). Following that the building was sold to a Mr. Gandy. I don't recall what kind of business (if any) he operated there. As of October 1998 I noticed that the store had once again become a private residence.
During his so-called "semi-retirement", Dad continued to fill in as a relief Pharmacist at friends' stores including Lou Pescatore's Lima Pharmacy, and Al Cathermin/Cathermine's (sp?) in Swarthmore. Although he kept his PA Pharmacy license for many years, he finally admitted to full retirement and enjoyed his involvement with the Chester Optimist Club, High 12, Chester Lodge, the Gideons, and Madison Street (later Christ United) Methodist Churches. He and Mother also continued to travel and spent several winters camping in Haines City, FL. Mother's health declined by the early 90's and she passed away on March 11, 1992. She is interred with her parents, brothers and sisters at Chester Rural Cemetery. About a year later Dad made the decision to sell their home and move closer to me in Greensboro, NC. He remained healthy and active here to the end which came suddenly on Memorial Day 1995. I spoke with him that morning by phone and made plans to spend some time at his apartment later in the day. Before 10 a.m. I had a call that he had passed away. Like his parents, he is interred at Lawn Croft Cemetery, not far from where he spent many of his early and teenage years in Trainer, PA.
Craig, I know this is lots more than you asked about but just thought I'd give the full story in case others are interested too.
Ye Olde (and Very Humble) Webmaster,
John A. Bullock III.
John you should be able to help out on a few questions that my Mom had. She wanted to know who bought the drug store after your grandfather sold it. She also wanted to know a few other things some of the other readers might be able to help with. What did Harry Liebeck have to do with Scott Paper. She thinks that he was the desiginer of the paper machines, hopefully would know something of this. The last thing is the Sign WHAT CHESTER MAKES MAKES CHESTER. Still standing and if not when was it torn down? Hopefully someone can help with these questions. If you would not like to answer on the forum page you can also get ahold of me at geneseis55@yahoo.com
Love this website,hav'nt seen too many names that I recall yet.Anyone remember Mrs Curran, the girl scout leader from St Mikes.I also remember Johns hot Dogs.And what about the bakery shop across the street from St Mikes school,where the 8th graders were allowed to go after Mass ,during Lent.Remember Fr. O'Hara's Christmas programs,and the gifts of a new Rosary or a new Missle?? I attended St Mikes for 8 years , Graduating in '58.We were the first graduating class to have our class photo done in front of the new 'Grotto.
I have some great memories of Chester, from 1962 when I was 8 years or until I left in 1976. I will get back with you this weekend to share my times in Chester.
Have a great day.
I grew up in Upland and went to Eddystone High class of 56.Worked in Chester at John Bridge Sons, 9th and Pennell. Worked with a girl named Jeanette Desanctis from around 3rd St in Chester. Her parents owned a small store. Would love to hear from her. Anyone knowing of her where abouts, I sure would appreciate it. We spent many evening at the Welsh Restaurant, and just walking the streets of Chester. Very nice website.
I remember walking from Upland to Chester years ago to go to movies. Nice website.
HEY ZAC! Do we have you thoroughly confused now? John Robinson is right! Parts of the West end were called the South!
WHO REMEMBERS JOHN KANE'S MILK SHAKES ON 3RD STREET BETWEEN PENN STREET AND EDGMONT AVENUE.....
REGARDING HAPPY, TO DIANA.......CAUGHT HAPPY IN EDDYSTONE, LIVED THERE UNTIL 5TH GRADE, THEN CAUGHT HIM AT IRVING MILL, ON NINTH STREET JUST ACROSS THE BRIDGE FROM EDDYSTONE.....MANY YEARS AGO, MY HUSBAND REMEMBERS THOSE LITTLE CHOCOLATE BARS FOR 3 CENTS.....
for zac sun village used to known as north chester in the row of stores on morton ave was the north chester reality. the west end was also called south chester
john
I grew up in Sun Hill, went to Martin School for kindergarten, St. Roberts and St. James. Great web site.
TO DON HUBICKY
I graduated from Dewey-Mann in 1952. Some of the teachers I remember are: Mrs.Carpenter[Math] She was quite old at the time If I remember correctly Miss Ferry married and became Mrs. Platukis Mr. Earl Blazynski [Coach] Mr Mignogna[Art] Jesse Phillips[Shop] After these my memory went.Perhaps others could add to it!
Paul
I used to go to St. Charles school in 1953 and I am looking for someone that is in charge of the 50th Reunion of our school.
HI ZAC!
Here is what I think was generally accepted to most Chesterites as far as geograhics of the City. [open to correction] North was anything above 12th. St. South was 3rd.St. or below East was from Welsh St. to the City line West was from Kerlin St. to the Western limit of City[Keystone Rd.?] Hope this is not too confusing! Paul
SANDILANDS SANDILINS looking for information on ancestors around 1638-92 that did lived in that time period in the Chester area James Sandeland born 1636 died 1692 arrived here 1664 with Capt Carr and some say had a brother named Jonas and would have arrive soon after James. James Sandeland had 3 sons Christian..James...Jonas..I'm looking for there Uncle Jonas! or proof he existed.. also looking for Jacob Avertssen Sandlin born Scotland 1600 arrived as 2nd mate on the Kalmar Nyckel 1638 later owned his ship the Scotch/Dutchman in 1646.what happened to him and where did he go and who is Edward Sandland who was master of the ship Tangereen that did sail in 1666 into Virginia ports. was he connected to the above.will pay for info on Jonas of older James if he did exsist.or documentation of proof of Edwards Family. or Edwards relative information.
deweyman was in southchester. the area around flower st, an down as far as highland ave. was called southchester.
Remembering Chester the way it was 25 years ago makes me sad because now it is the worst place to go. I loved downtown and shopping at Weinberg's and working for the bank.
In response to Zac about the North/South, East/West question. My husband informs me that the Delaware River bends and runs East and West in this general area. That would be the answer as to why we have East/West streets.
Here are some teacher names that I had while attending Horace Mann (1942-43) 1st Grade Miss/Mrs.(?) Crystle (1943-44) 2nd Grage Mrs. Mary Courtney (1944-45) 3rd Grade Mrs. Nellie D Sproat (1945-46) 4th Grade Mrs. Mable W Hutchison (1946-47) 5th Grade Miss Anna Steciw (1947-48) 6th Grade Mrs. Sara J Morton Also during this period I remember having a Mrs. Johnson for Gym Then I attended Dewey School for 7th and 8th Grades.For homeroom I had Miss Ferry for both years. Her brother was a pro-football player.As I rember other names I will write. Don Hubickey (Dewey-Mann '50)
What a rush, every time I read through these postings! I came to Chester at the age of 3, and lived in Highland Gardens (1943-48). Thanks for reminding me of Honeysuckle Farms (tutti-fruity) and all the hucksters. I especially remember the "clothes Praaaaaps" (props) seller every Monday, and the Freihoffers (bread) and Millers-Flounders (milk) in horse-drawn trucks (war-time).
We played in the street, and skated on the sidewalk in front of Resurrection Church: the ridges in the pavement made your teeth chatter.
I went to the Lyric, too (we called it "the rathouse") for the matinee: remember the old serials? They gave you a little bag of candy in the price of admission. The Great Leopard skating rink gave you a gumball as you left. Loved the Great Leopard market as well. Big tubs of fresh-churned sweet butter and other farm produce.
Thanks for this site!
Hi, I'm trying to find out if a church replaced an old one I used to attend back in 1982. It was called Resurrection and it also had a school. It was located near the hospital that is now called Community Hospital on West 9th Street(used to be Sacred Heart).
If anyone can help pls do!! I need to find records from Resurrection or from the church that exists now.
Thank you!
My cousin Greg told me about this weeb site and i was honerd to see my grandparents buisness listed. I lived in chester untill I was nine years old and Istill have famly there,and still do work in the area
So wonderful to find such an interesting and helpful site for genealogy. Only suggestion is for all these note to give more specific dates. I was born in Chester in 1948 however moved at a young age. My grandfather George Shober (Schober) provided me with more written notes, newspaper articles and obituaries than I was able to sort through. In response to one note I noticed about the CHESTER HOTEL, George Shober built the THE CHESTER ARMS HOTEL,in 1918 on Edgmont Avenue near 5th. I don't know if this is the same hotel, I believe he sold it about 1930. My family names include CADWALADER (also spelled Cadwallader), PRICE, SHOBER (Schober), DENNER, O'NEIL AND WARPOLE. All were very old and long residents. Any questions or help would be appreciated.
Hello again, Couldn't resist getting back to the site. Thanks John for your sicnerity in creating and maintaining this great site. I like the one liners, the candy store on 8th St. below Moyamensing Fire House, the monkey in the yard on the clothesline @ 9th St, same location, playing for the Biddy Leaque for Briggs's Sporting Goods at Trinity Church, my brother Jack who passed away 6/6/01, almost losing his leg on the falls @ Chester Park. Deshong's park, the peanut shop across the street from the park, Officer Gorman from the Safety Patrol, Boy Scout meeting's at the church next to Moyamensing, singing in St. Mike's Choir from 54-61, outside the courthouse singing Carol's in the snow (seems like it always snowed on Xmas Eve when we sang Midnight Mass (what crowds, just wonder how many partied before going! Really reminds of the show they run every Xmas season on TV, the Christmas story with Darren McGavin), being hit by a car @ age 13 on 9th & Edgmont, fracturing a leg jumping out of Murphy Fords building @ age 6(under construction @ 6th & Madison) into back yards and my sister (Helen Gallo, nee Doyle) pushing me around in a baby carriage, the old Chester Mission, hanging out at Pat's Hoagie Shop, Eddie May the "White Glove" policeman, White Mountains, Sonny at Goodyear Tires, Hilt @ Del. Co. Auto Parts, my Aunt Libby Greenleaf (crossing guard @ 7th & Crosby), Oh, by the way, the original sign from 7th & Crosby is alive & well and will make a presence at the Crosby Reunion on the 3rd Saturday in September of 2001 @ the VFW Post in Folsom (for information, contact me), family names (that hung out at Pat's) like, Sacco, Henderson, Wood, Kerrigan, Voloski, Fitchek, McGlaughin, Gatta, Vona, Anzalone (Bedsel), Emhe, Green, Chorney, Roux, Hyland, Clark, Bailey, Kinsler, DeFonzo, McCabe, Anderson, Burnell, Vivian Thomas (really a guy, his Mom was the first lady I seen with Tatto's), Kublers, Yeck, Gamble, Beebe, Bentley, Swanson, DeLeone, Kanaris, Wilhauer, Wayne "Heavy" Guthrie and sisters (if you know what I mean) & Greenleaf. Shining shoes in every bar from Morton Avenue to Downtown Chester and to end this session, attending PMC from 71-78 (thank God for the GI Bill). Will visit again when I can spend more time. Currently working (as a contractor) @ Three Mile Island, Middletown, Pa.
Enjoy,
Larry Doyle Sr.
ANYONE REMEMBER "HAPPY" THE WATER ICE GUY WHO SOLD WATER ICE AND CANDY OUT OF HIS OLD STATIONWAGON HE WOULD SCRAP THE ICE AND POUR COLORED FLAVOR WATER OVER IT......
What ever happend to Chester TEX ....One week he was the pope , the next week he was Daniel Boone , and Let's not forget Chester Rose , Mississippi , Hot Dog , and Bennie
What Chester Makes, Makes Chester!, Hello, I was born at Taylor Hospital in "47". Attended St. Mike's (wonderful Sister St. Martha), from 53-61, ST. James, 61-65 (largest class to graduate, 444 boys, also the 25th graduating class). From 65-68 I attended as we affectionately called it, Ho Chi Minh U. or Saignon U. I flew as a gunner in a Navy patrol plan, approx. 70 combat missions. Glad to be back. I see my sister (Helen Gallo,nee Doyle)has entered info. Great sister! Many memories about growing up, hanging out, playing ball, hopping cars/trains. Some of the best stores around. Ping pong balls dropped from a helicopter. Pat's Hoagie shop at 7th & Crosby, Poor Bill from Smedley's Junk Yard, airplane wheels falling through the infamous bar on 5th St., Chester H, Smedley, Larkin schools, Chester Park Falls, YMCA, Eddie Teabos store on 7th, Ted Riser's store on 8th (the magic man), Eagle Grille, Joe Millers, Larkin House, Eagels Club (FOE)at Deshong St & 7th, LLoyd AC, Schuster's, Big Moe's & Litton's,Stanley, Mack, Boyd & State Theaters. I could go on with the things I remember but I'll save it for later. Great Site!!! Hope to hear from some old friends.
Larry Doyle Sr.
What Chester Makes, Makes Chester!, Hello, I was born at Taylor Hospital in "47". Attended St. Mike's from 53-61, ST. James, 61-65 (largest class to graduate, 444 boys, also the 25th graduating class). From 65-68 I attended as we affectionately called it, Ho Chi Minh U. or Saignon U. I flew as a gunner in a Navy patrol plan, approx. 70 combat missions. Glad to be back. I see my sister (Helen Gallo,nee Doyle)has entered info. Great sister! Many memories about growing up, hanging out, playing ball, hopping cars/trains. Some of the best stores around. Ping pong balls dropped from a helicopter. Pat's Hoagie shop at 7th & Crosby, Poor Bill from Smedley's Junk Yard, airplane wheels falling through the infamous bar on 5th St., Chester H, Smedley, Larkin schools, Chester Park Falls, YMCA, Eddie Teabos store on 7th, Eagle Grille, Joe Millers, Larkin House, Eagels Club (FOE)at Deshong St & 7th, LLoyd AC. I could go on with the things I remember but I'll save it for later. Great Site!!! Hope to hear from some old friends.
Larry Doyle Sr.
Greetings to all in the class of 61-62, (CHS) remember many people and lots of good times, would like to hear from any and all.
JUST THINKING ABOUT DIRECTIONS IN CHESTER WOULD LIKE TO POSE A QUESTION THE DELAWARE RIVER AND THE PENNSEY RAIL ROAD RUN NORTH AND SOUTH RIGHT?? THE QUESTION IS HOW COME WE HAVE EAST AND WEST SIDE OF CHESTER AND NOT A NORTH AND SOUTH SIDE OF CHESTER?? ANYONE?? ZAC S
Hi my name is Donald. I was born in Chester PA in 1943 and went to Morton School from the 1st to the 4th grade. I moved to Delaware when I was nine years old. I had a good friend named Raymond Bordley. Would like to get in touch with him. If anyone know Raymond, please write me.. Thanks Donald.
Surely someone knew the WALKER family that lived at 627 Sproul St.(Above a store) That was in the late 40's. Does anyone know where Betty or Helen WALKER went to H.S.? Or what about married names? I believe Betty was in the class of "46" and Helen was older. Someone must remember going to the Red Cross, sponsered, dances at Valley Forge Hospital, with Betty. Betty worked at the big department store in Phil.They all went to St. Michaels' Catholic Church. Please, any info appreciated.
Bob Launiere
How about the eight grade class of HOLY GHOST School '72? Or anybody in that era? Curious... life has been fun since.
TO PAUL CROWTHER, thank you!!!!!!! i knew i remembered something up there. i was also remembering today the fireworks displays that we used to be able to see sitting on our front lawn on west 7th st.i guess they were set off behind the fields up there. remember the beer cellar on booth st. it was a real cellar!! thanks again.nice to know someone else remembers.
ENJOY THE SITE AND READING THE MEMORIES OF SO MANNY CHESTERIT'S HAPPY THAT NO OR FEW NEGATIVE COMENTS. APPEAR. JOHN HAS PUT HIS WHOLE HEART AND SOUL INTO A MAJOR PROJECT FOR OUR ENJOY MENT.PERSONALLY I THINK JOHN DESERVES A HATS OFF FOR CREATING WHAT IS A VERY INFORMATIVE AND SUCESSFULL WEB SITE ENDEAVOR.THANKS JOHN. ZAC
TO TERRY McHugh
I don't think your mind is playing tricks on you! There was some sort of Bar or Nightclub in the area you're describing. My Aunt worked there for a short period in the 1950's.
Paul
TO NANCY KLOTZ LONG
Just in case you weren't aware: There was a Paul Klotz living in Chester who is listed in the 1888-89 City Directory. He lived at 202 w. 4th. St. He was a Patternmaker.
Hello!! I was just checking out the site and it is so nice to read all of the wonderful memories people have of Chester.My grandparents were the owners of Zangari's candy store,home of their well known water ice.It is so neat to hear that people remember them coming through their neighborhoods with the water ice trucks.People may even remember my dad,Jerry,cruising the streets of Chester in one of those trucks.Unfortunately they had closed up the store by the time I came around,but I have great memories of them making water ice at home for everyone when we had family gatherings.People may have had their favorite flavor..but lemon always the best!!
hi! just reading some of the more recent entries and something popped into my head, i seem to remember my older sister going to the "Hullabaloo"? in the shopping center on 9th and Booth, seems to me it was in the back of the center behind what used to be a laudromat and Prospect Park Bakery? anyone else remember or is my mind playing tricks on me? Maybe it was just a one time thing with Jerry Blavett? help.................
I grew up at 1030 Parker St, Chester under the name Ralph George until the age of 16 when I changed it to Ralph Leiby. I have 2 brothers and 2 sisters who were graduates of CHS -- Delbert George, Carol George, Betty George and Carlton George. I attended Lincoln, Franklin and the CHS but was unable to graduate because of a tour of duty for Uncle Sam. I have read this web site with much interest and relived many happy memories. My first job t age 15 was as an usher at the Boyd Theatre. After I rturned from the arms in 1948, I spent most of my time at the Great Leopard Skating rink (working as floor man 5 nights a week and skating for pleasure 2 nights. During the day I enjoyed horse back riding at Phipps -- I usually rode "Candy" Mrs. Phipps dapple gray. Rode through Upland, Brookhaven, Aston Twp -- all the way to the Baltimore Pike and back again. I can recall every place mentioned in all the e-mails prior to mine.
In 1957 I married Phyllis Snideman who grew up in Brookhaven. She attended the Washington Grammar School and then went to Nether Providence. She can also relate to the good times spent in Chester.She recalls walking across Middletown Road to the WPWA Radio Station to watch performances of Bill Haley and His Four Western Aces.
THOSE WERE THE "GOOD OLE DAYS".
Hi, I'm Nina Hodder (Bornos). It's been great reading all the comments about Chester. They certainly were the good old times. I lived in Chester (Sun Hill - 16th Street). We came from Australia in '62 when I was 14. I went to Smedley Junion High and then to Chester High and graduated in '66. I made many friends but have lost contact and would love to hear from them (Jill Booth, Gail Crowell, Suzanne Downie) or anyone else. My family and I went back to Australia in '69, but I still think of my time in Chester quite often. I never did get a copy of CHS Year Book Class of '66 and was wondering if anyone can help me obtain a copy. I would dearly love to have a copy of the year book and would be most greatful. Thanks, John, for telling me about the website. I will be a regular visitor. Nina (ninahodder@hotmail.com)
Old Chester,s web page looks good enjoyed reading threw it. Life is good here in Maryland lived in Chester for55 years Retired from CFD in 1997
Hello to all the great people who lived in CHESTER PA. !!!!!!!!!!!I sure do miss back in the day ( What CHESTER makes , Makes CHESTER ) The Red Arrow Bus Co., The Pulaski day Parade , P.M.C. , Chester-Bridgeport ferry , Arckis's Candy store , Going to St. Roberts , sneaking into the St. James Football games , ( and getting bit by the Chester police dog ) Walking from AM to the PM from Downtown Chester to 23rd.St. with my grandmother Who at that time was 80 years old ...going thur winburg's , Spear's Brothers , Stotter's , The yellow bowl , and living as a Kid at the Y M C A and troop 184 BSA , What ever happend to Mr. Henry Kruss our Boy Scout Master and Dr. Anderson And good old Mr. Archer ..........This where some of the thing i know about Good OLD CHESTER Pa.
If Anyone lived on Jeffery Street between 2nd & 3rd please e-mail me ...I am doing Genealogy work and i am trying to find out some things to fill a gap ,
Thanks , Hank Ternove
I am requesting anyone that has lived in Sun Hill from 1939 to present time, if you have any information about War Memorial located 16th and Washington Ave. On the Memorial Stone are four names, John J. Buckley III John E. Marron Charles E. Topham Robert E. Wood If you know the families of the above contact me, any relative,this Memorial was made possible by neighbors going through neighborhood collecting money in coffee cans like they did in the old days. Then the City Of Chester was so gracious to allow stone to be placed at 16th and Washington Ave. Thank you, Otto Greenleaf ot60@hotmail.com
Great site, great memories of what was once a very nice town with very nice neighborhoods. Oh well, maybe someday it may return. However, with all the drugs and problems the city is faced with I'm not expecting any changes real soon. I worked at McCray's candy store on Madison Ave between 23rd and 24 th Sts. Old man McCray was crippled and a mean old coot. If you came in to the store and asked for a "water ice", he would promptly say "we don't sell water ice, we sell yum yums".It was the same as water ice but, he insisted on calling it something else. This was in the 1962/63 time frame. I also delivered the Chester Times all over that neighborhood. I remember collecting the paper money on Saturday mornings and then taking it to Leo's house on 8th St near Sproul. If you were short any money he would deduct it from your pay. If you were over, he would keep it. I also remember delivering an evening paper to Angie's market one afternoon and walked in during the middle of an armed robbery. Yea, even in the early sixties, in a good neighborhood, crime was present. I startled the gunman who took off out the door running towards 23rd and Madison dropping money all the way. I picked up the money and returned it to Angie. I waited for the cops to show up so I could point out which direction he ran and gave a description of what he looked like. I was interviewed by someone from the paper for and article and I was asked if Angie gave me a reward for returning the money. I told the paper that she never even said thank you. They mentioned my comment in the paper and all the neighbors were in an uproar. Folding under pressure from the neighbors, she thanked me a few days later. After my paper delivery days ended I started work at Bill Glatt's Amoco station in Parkside. Of course, this was back in the day when you washed windows, checked tire pressure, and checked under the hood as a routine service. I played baseball for Huey Cokely in Chester Park, played stick ball in the alleys between 20th and 21st Sts.,hung out at Big Moes at 9th and Flower Sts. and, if I could peel off all the rubber from my tires I left on the Conchester highway, I would never have to buy another tire for the rest of my life! I went to Wetherill school and remember Miss Cornog, Smedley Jr High, remember Miss Eachus, and somehow graduated from Chester High in 67. Good times and great memories. I then worked for Mueller's flower shop on 3rd St. I deliver flowers all over the place. Anytime someone cut me off or slammed on their brakes I had to rearrange the flowers prior to delivery. I became pretty good at arranging flowers in their holders after a few months. Also, worked for Minutella's on 5th St and also in Brookhaven. They were impressed with how well I could arrange flowers. I didn't tell them it was from almost wrecking Mueller's van that caused me to learn how to do it. Anyway, great site, keep up the good work. Norm
Hello jJack!
We must be neighbors. I live on Garden lane in Aston. Was born in 1960 and spent the first 18 years in Highland Gardens. I attended Rez School. Class of 1974.Great memories!
Hello Nancy!
We moved to Bethel Township in 1978. The house my parents bought is directly behind Bill Haleys house on Foulk rd. and Bethel rd. My mother grew up on Parker street one block up from Immaculate Heart and attended that school She was born in 1934 or 36. Her maiden name is Rogalski.
I was married in 83 and we bought a house in Aston and this is where we have been since then. If there is any other info I can help with just post it here or e-mail me!
Paul.
Hello:
I have a saying I like: "You nooze, you lose!" Boy, if you don't check out this website every day or so, you miss sooooooo much good stuff!
MY ADVICE: Bookmark this sit for immediate access! Better yet, make a shortcut on the desktop for FASTER ACCESS! you really don't want to take a chance on not being among the first to know, you know!
Greg Zangari, are you related to the Zagari's who had a candy store at 4th and Franklin St, next to the Franklin School Playground in the days of penny candy? The store is listed under the retail business listings page on this site. Perhaps you could furnish additional infor- mation on when it opened, owners, when closed, etc.I am sure John would be glad to add any information you may have.
Nancy K. Long, if you will be kind enough to send me your complete email address, I may be able to furnish you information as I live in Aston Township, and have since 1959. My memory is getting rusty, but I will try.
Now, let me get back to doing what I do best. (Surfing the Oldchesterpa.com web site)s/Jack
It's me again, Nancy Klotz Long. I have been reading the e-mails to this website for 45 min. now! Wonderful! I can relate to the heartbreak of some upon seeing Chester after many,many years. I am also happy that it sounds as though it's on the mend. Sure hope so. My mother grew up in Parkside, and we lived on Roland Rd. after I was born. A great area. Loved Chester Park, etc. My grandfather, Peter Rockenbeck was a volunteer firman with Parkside, and his name is engraved on the stone memorial to those who volunteered. I'm also interested in hearing from anyone who resides (resided) in Village Green where my aunt and uncle lived for awhile. I loved the place and remember manyhappy times there. I especially loved the four (5,6,) corners area. Ate at the restuarant many times. When a teenager, I was told that Bill Haley (of the Comets) also lived there. Was that true? An early, short-lived boyfriend ( I was visiting from Ca.) and a neighbor of my aunt and uncle's was Alfie Lutz. Anyone know where he is? He joined the Navy at an early age and visited me once in Ca. Keep up the good work, e-mailers, and those who run this site. I will visit it everyday from now on.
I was born at Chester Hospital in 1938. My father was Paul John Klotz,IV. He, too, was born in Chester in 1913. His grandfather, Paul Klotz, had been a leading businessman in the City, owning the Chester Hotel, and was Commordore of the . I attended Immaculate Heart of Mary School at 2nd and Norris Sts. through first and second grades. One classmate I remember (mostly for her long golden curls ) was Patsy Kelly. My grandparents, Paul Klotz and Araminta (Minnie) Elliot Klotz lived at the corner of 9th and Parker Sts. across the street from Chester High School. He was a professional musician and composer and provided the music for the Dance Studio across the street. He and my grandmother had met in Vaudeville, he as a musician, she as part of a tumbling act. They married and honeymooned in Atlantic City while also performing there. Both of my grandparents died in 1948. My sister(born in Ridley Park) are researching both the Klotz family and the family of our great grandmother, Margaret Klotz, nee, McMichael who was born in Ireland. She was married to the Paul Klotz who owned the Chester Hotel. Any help in our search would be truly appreciated. Also, any other information on the Klotz family (such as pictures of the Chester Hotel, etc.) would also be truly appreciated. I still consider Chester to be my "home" although I moved to California when I was l0, to Oregon in 1970, to Boston in 1982, back to Oregon in 1988, and now reside with my sister in Escondido, California. My last trip to Chester was in 1984 when I visited former Chesterites and also my second cousin, Ruth Leary, who is also a former Chesterite. She now lives in Deleware. My great Aunt, Sara Gray was a candy store owner in Chester also. A cousin, Leo "The Phantom" Klotz, retired as football coach at Ridley Township High School and died in 1983 at the age of 73. All of the scholarships are now in his name. Another cousin, Jack Klotz, played professional football, I believe with the N.Y. Jets. At 7th and Sproul, the three story building, now called the City Team Ministries, is now employing this cousin. Hope this information solicits responses from current and former Chesterites, relatives or not.
I remember the newstand under the railroad on Edgmont ave. It was run by the Reynolds family and I was friendly with clare Reynolds. Clare if you are into computers and this web site, send a message. Irene.
Interesting site. I grew up in the West End and lived on 3rd St. between Townsend and Palmer streets, right down from "Andy's" musical bar and grille. I went to St.Hedwig's and St.James ('67). I remember Honeysuckle on 9th street, Sherwood's Seafood house (Iwould love to have one of their great crabcakes again), Bomberger's drug store (where we went to get a cherrycoke at the soda fountain), The Lyric theater (especially the Saturday matinee cartoons), the bowling alley at 3rd & Thurlow? (which later became the Esquire Billiard Academy), Cal's Hoagie Shop and the bakery next door at 3rd & Hayes and, of course, Zangari's water ice. Does anyone remember a store at 3rd & Wilson (Gack's?) where the owner was shot and killed by my next door neighbor in the very early fifties?
This is one of the greatest web sites out there , I am so pleased to see the history of Chester live on , I was born and rased in the city of Chester , and there are so many storys that i can tell but would not have the time . i do have some old postcards of 9th St. ( The golden mile ) and i will scan them and send them off , Please let me know ,too who would want them . also growing up in the 1st ward ..dose anyone remember McCrays waterice next to Angie's market and will there be a reunion for St. Roberts catholic School for around 61 to 68 thanks hank_ternove@yahoo.com
To Greg Zangari,
I remember well the Zangari Water Ice tuck coming around my neighborhood! You're right about it being the best! Haven't had one as good since! If I remember correctly they had at times Licorice and Vanilla flavors. They were my favorites! We not only had Zangaris come every day{Highland Gardens}we had Brandywine with their open truck [like Zangaris,Homestead Homerand Good Humor! We also had [almost every day] Farmers coming selling Watermelons,Tomato's and many assorted Fruits and Vegetables! There were Knive sharpeners,Photographers[along with their ponies] Pots and Pan salesmen,Fuller Brush,Clothing salesman and so many others I can't remember them all! To this day I don't think it helped my Mother's sanity any with all the Bells,Whistles,Tunes playing,knocks on the door and all the yelling on the street. Wish I could do it all over again! Not sure I have Tomato spelled right.[p;ural] Wouldn't want to be another Dan Quail! How many trucks did Zangari have and did you cover the whole City? Darn! Now I want a WATER ICE!
Thanks for all your good work. Chester lives on in many ways. This Website is a great contributorto that memory.
Graduated in 1970, grew up in McCaferty Village.
What an excellent site! Thanks so much for all the time you've obviously put into it! Some of my fondest memories of Chester included days in the summertime when my Grandfater, Agazio "Gus" Zangari, would take us out in one of his Zangari's Italian Water Ice trucks! To this day, I still get people asking me, "Are you related to Zangari's Water Ice?" Nothing beat my Grandparent's Water Ice, and to tell you the truth, I haven't tasted anything like it to date. So tell me, who remembers Zangari's Water Ice...and more importantly, what was your favorite flavor? Me? I'm hard pressed to choose between the Cherry and the Lemon!
And who can forget JOE NIAGRA on the chester radion station?........."So Nice, Let's Play It Twice."
Born in Chester Hospital (1943) graduated from St. Michael's in 1957 and Notre Dame in 1961. Worked at Wissler's Print Shop and Mac Theater from 1957-1961. Grandmother taught at Franklin and Lincoln Schools (Eugenie Doyle). Uncle (Charles Doyle) was the Comptroller at Sun Ship - believe it was in the 50's. My father also worked there. Maternal grandfather (Otto Traub) was a ball player, sports announcer at the turn of the century. Paternal grandfather (John Doyle) was a butcher/grocer - his shop was located at the corner of Second and Flower Sts. Grandparents lived on West 8th St. (Holy City). If anyone has info on the Traub, Doyle, Hardouin, McFate families, woud appreciate the info. This is a great website!
THIS IS WHY THIS SITE IS SO GREAT, A BLAST FROM THE PAST...JERRY IRWIN....YOU FORGOT THE NON JITTERBUGS, JIMMY D, TURK W., RONNIE A., TRACY G., JOE K. AND PEPSI FOR THE GARDENS AND ONT'S FORGET CHESTER'S (sam ruebens)...........
HELLO OLD CHESTER PEOPLE,
ANYONE REMEMBER THE ELRANCHO IN WOODLYN AND THE T BAR ON MCDADE BLVD....FATS DOMINO, SCREAMING J HAWKINS, LYN HOPE.....TO LONG AGO...!
moved to chester in 1939 lived at 12th&kerlin during the war years then bought a new townhouse on nolan street in highland gardens.hung out downtown chester during the 50s,I remember whitey, flea, ace, jasper, fendez, spider, fergie, bulldog, deadman, chester vic,jughead, and ahost of other colorfull character.buying cars at joes junkyard.strolling into the palmgardens and imperial at 17yrs old,crashing wedding receptions and attending a dance every night of the week,Chester was the home of the greatet concentration of jitterbugs that ever lived.i remember jasper ace odonnal whitey jones and the like.sixbutton bennys boxtoed shoes mr B collar shaw collars TM's,shackels louvers and spinners.Bill haley and the saddleman at the old alpha boat club when it was on the river.weekends at Booths corner sale and be sure to walk your girl past the man in theaiel saying "How many? meeting at the A&W root beer stand at ninth and morton on sunday morning for a ride out to sunset park to see the likes on Roy acuff,Hank Williams or some other grand ole opery star.many fine wonderfull memories of a great place to grow up.
I agree with Mary. Where are all of the Chester High grads of '65? Let's hear from you. I went to Lincoln Elementary School but moved in the sixth grade. Had I continued with my education in Chester, I would have graduated in 1965 from Chester High. There must be some of you out there from that class. I too was born in the old Chester Hospital as was my mother and father. Does anyone out there know the Winfree family?
Being from Eddytstone(Class of 56)Chester was always to me, going "Down Town". I worked at the Yellow Bowl on Sproul St. as a buss boy, but spent all my spare time hanging at the Royal Billiards or on "Adams Corner". On friday night, St. Mike's dance was the happening place. And then "Jimmy Lynn's Night Club" off old Concord Rd., a great place for teens. The Chester Park free concerts were for "Date Night". Chester was a great place to grow up.
Hello-I am looking for information regarding a John Hamilton, who was a firefighter in the Moyamensing (I believe) company from probably the early '30's until his death in 1956. This was my husband's grandfather, who he never got to meet. He was married to Ann and had only one child-a daughter, Mary Jane b.1928. They lived on Potter Street. My husband is both a local volunteer firefighter and a member of the FDNY. I decided to search for his grandfather's lost fire helmet after we visited his grave in Chester this Spring. I know the helmet would mean the world to him were we to have it. Upon the death of John "Red" Hamilton, the helmet was given, apparently by his wife Anne to a John Taylor. A childhood friend of my mother-in-law contacted Mr. Taylor to ask about it. He told her he returned it to the Chester FD when he moved to Maryland. This is as far as my search has gone so far. Does anyone happen to know what might have become of this helmet? How might I get further information? Is there anyone out there with perhaps photos or memories of John Hamilton that cares to share? I'd love to hear from anyone with information. We're in the process of putting together a very personal shadow box for a gift for my husband. So far, it includes a photo of his young grandfather in uniform, his FD dress gloves and a medal of honor. If you happen to have any information for me, I'd love to hear from you. Please contact me at davidtwoboneg@aol.com or at 4 Conservation Circus, Ridge, NY 11961. Thanks for reading my story-we'd love to hear from you, whether it's just a story about John or more info on his helmet.
The more I visit this site, the more I remember. My grandfather William (Jake) Baxter worked at Baldwin Lima Hamilton Locomotive Works in the early 20s. He was actually one of the men sent to Panama back then to build the railroad and he was there for two years.I don't know what his job was but my mother told me that he some sort of forman or supervisor.
Hi, Heard about this web page from Dorothy Marler, who now lives in Calif. Liked the picture of Bullocks Drug store.
Looking for a friend named Joan Watson that graduated from Chester High in 1964. I think she has a younger brother named Jerome that graduated in 1968 and an older brother named Neil that graduated about 1956 or so. Does anyone know any of the family? I would love to touch base with Joan. She would have know me as Betty Hospodka when we were about 12 when she lived in Phoenix with her family. I would appreciate any help! THANKS.
Looking for information on grandparents.
Maternal Grandparents: Otto W. Traub - born 12-12-78 Sarah Gertrude McFate - born 2-15-1878 Married on 2-8-1900 at St. Michael's Rectory. Sarah died 12-15-1947 and Otto 1-23-1960, both buried in St. Michael's Cemetery.
Paternal Grandparents: John Joseph Doyle - born 3-8-1870 Eugenie Hardouin Doyle born 1-14-1879. Marrried 6-24-1903 at Immaculate Heart Church. John died 4-17-1943 and Eugenie died 10-26-1959, Both buried in Immaculate Heart Cemetery.
Eugenie J. Hardouin - born 1-4-1879. Married 6-24-1903 at St. Michael's Church. John Joseph died 4-17-1943 and Eugenie died 10-26-1960
Looking for information on grandparents.
Maternal Grandparents: Otto W. Traub - born 12-12-78 Sarah Gertrude McFate - born 2-15-1878 Married on 2-8-1900 at St. Michael's Rectory. Sarah died 12-15-1947 and Otto 1-23-1960, both buried in St. Michael's Cemetery.
Paternal Grandparents: John Joseph Doyle - born 3-8-1870 Eugenie J. Hardouin - born 1-4-1879. Married 6-24-1903 at St. Michael's Church. John Joseph died 4-17-1943 and Eugenie died 10-26-1960
I was born in Chester in 1950 and my parents moved all around the area during my early years. My Dad (Don McClure Sr. )went to Media but my Mom Ruth ( O'Donnell )went to Chester High. My first memories of living in the area was living on Middletown Rd. accross from the Circle Tavern. Then we moved to Wilmington and lived on Trenton Pl. and I started first grade at Washington Grade School. Half way through second grade my family moved to Chester and I started going to Jefferies. We lived at 1030 Potter St. till my family moved to Seattle in 1962 one month short of completing 6th grade. I read the e-mails people send in and a flood of memories come back to me also. Hi Balls was the corner grocery where you could get your small items and they would always throw a penny candy in the bag or give you a slice of meat or cheese when ordering from the Deli part and the big pickels that would burn your mouth but tasted soooo good. Watching Sally Star and remembering her comming to an Easter Parade in Downtown Chester. Moran's bar on the corner and the fact that just about every corner had a Deli. Playing stick ball in the alley and hearing the ice cream or Zangarri Italian Ice truck. Going to the Mac theater on Saturday . Grabing the back of a car in the snow for a free ride down Potter st. Some one mentioned the Safety day at Lenape Park where the crossing guards got to go for their work, what a roller coster and fun house! I can remember the field trips the school would take like the Philadelphia Zoo, Brandywine Park and the historical trip to downtown to see the Liberty Bell, Independance Hall and Besty Ross House. I still have alot of relitives that live in and about Chester ( Upland and Parkside )but its the old neighborhood friend that I remember the most. Names like Bruno Biten, Donnie Elxison, Gerry Hill, Anita Burns, Joe Todd, Bruce Bently, Joyce Ann Houser, Patty Shopshire, etc. people that I went to school with and lived around the area. I have had the chance to get back Chester once in 1969 and just recently twice in 2000 and once in 2001. I walked the streets in Downtown Chester and can't figure out why they haven't tryed to fix it up. I amazed that people live in my old neighborhood as its total ruin. I lived in Seattle for over 35 years and now live in the Phoenix area after being transfered by my work. Anybody recognized me or some of the names listed above please feel free to e-mail me.
Thanks for the opportunity to tell my story great web site. Don McClure
My mother worked at the Yellow Bowl and I also remember spending hours at the DeShong Art museum, going to movies at the Stanley, the State and even the Mac theater. Strolling through Sun village past Moon's Smoke shop where all the boys wouls whistle and make semi lewd comments. the brothers Nick and Barney Massey, Buddy Mills, Floyd Furniss, The Duffy brothers.I worked for a short time at the phone company in 54 and on fridays we all ate lunch at Sam Rubens.
What a wonderful website! It certainly brings back memories. I was actually born in Eddystone and went to school there, ( class of 1953) but Chester was our major cultural experience in those days. I remember the rootbeet stand at 9th and Morton. My mother would walk my two brothers and I over the 9th st. bridge on a balmy summer evening for an ice cold rootbeer,on tap no less. My oldest brother, Vic Marler, played sports for Eddystone high in the 40s. My most important love interest as a teenager, Jody Ambrosino, took me to see "Streetcar Named Desire" at the old Stanley theater when i was about 15. I think of Jody every time I see Marlon Brando. I have lived in LA since 1973 and have been back to Chester only rarely. When my mother died in 1991, i went to her funeral in Cape May NJ where she had lived for the last 20 years of her life. my brother Gene picked me up at the airport and I wanted to see Chester so we drove through on our way to the shore. It was heartbreaking to see it so devestated. Eddystone, on the other hand, looked pretty much the same. There had been a few new buildings and houses, but not much had changed there. Does anyone out ther know or remember Diane Chalfont? she may be about 62-66 years old and I think she went to Chichester or Chester High. Any one know Pat Crawford who lived in Sun Hill? Her dad was a president of the Bank that was across from Silvers 5 and dime. Would love to hear from anyone.
I love the website. I really enjoyed recalling events and places from my youth that so many folks described.
i was raised in chester from 1933 to 1950 when i enlisted in the navy. i lived on east 3rd. st. i have a lot of good memoies of chester, to many to type out. now living in sydney australia. would like to find out about some old friends.....phyllis loyd & mary distllio[never could spell] they use to live in ridley twp. also lee shapiro[his father owned the paint&paper store on welsh st.] and paul & nancy landaouch[not sure of the spelling]....thanks...great site.
HI CHS '36 ARE THERE ANY MORE OLD TIMERS AROUND?ALL TE NAMES I SEE ARE JUST KIDS.CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN OF MY OLD CLASSMATES.FORTY YEARS AGO I WAS A NEIGHBOR OF LOU WARFUL'S.WE HAVE BOTH MOVED TO ARIZONA,ME TO MESA AND LOU TONEAR BELL ROAD,ABOUT FIFTY MILES FROM ME. HARRY PARK CHS 37 TOLD ME ABOJUT THIS WEB SITE.
My father Wm"Bill" Brennan was a butcher at Acme Market,until we moved to Miami in 1956.
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