We had it all - downtown
21.05.12
By MICHAEL APICHELLA
For Hazleton-area youngsters, it's hard to imagine the booming mercantile district once positioned between Church and Pine streets, north from Holly, running south to Walnut. Broad Street held it in at the waist like a high-quality leather belt with a gleaming brass buckle.
Over the last few weeks, I've been researching a column on Hazleton's downtown shopping distinct, the halcyon years of 1930-1980. I've had great contributions from readers sharing memories.
The project's evolving into a two-part column similar to my articles on the area bars, restaurants, and playgrounds. Thankfully, I enjoy the support of long-suffering Carl Christopher who deserves to be named Pennsylvania editor of the millennium for his patience with me.
Since I've more material for even a two-part column, here're some outtakes to warm you up for the final product which ought to be ready shortly.
Once upon a time, downtown was a cornucopia of men's stores, women's fashion shops; office suppliers, and dry goods stores. And the variety of goods and services!
Source: Standard Speaker