A Tour of Downtown Bridgeport -

Lets turn the clock back to the 1950's and do kind of a walk by from CONGRESS ST.and Main ST. to State ST.and Main ST.I remember downtown BRIDGEPORT quite well.IF my memory serves me right at Congress and Main Streets on the corner was CONGRESS CANDY.A well known place to hang out back in the day.I miss that place.Also just about across the road was THE CRYSTAL PALACE where all kinds of games could be played really cheap.Back then to near by for real up to date styles for men was AUSTINS'MEN SHOP and of course MR.JERRYS'where I shopped many times for the latest trend in mens'fashion.Those were the days for sure when you were a teen with a few bucks you could get some good buys on clothes.AS you walked further on MAIN STREET you could shop at KAYS DEPARTMENT STORE.AS you walked further you'd come to H.L.GREENS 5 AND TEN STORE.IT had a food counter in the rear of the store where a good meal could be had at a great price.Across the street was LERNERS'SHOP for women who wanted a update on their wardrobe needs.Farther down the street was LEVITTS DEPARTMENT STORE with loads of good buys for every family member.Leis'not forget MORROWS'NUT HOUSEwith its'aroma of fresh peanuts as you passed by.There was also FLAGG BROTHERS SHOES where I always got my shoes.Also there was HOWLANDS DRY GOODS a department store with real nice merchandise at reasonable prices.OF course I need to mention WOOLWORTHS',SS.KRESSGES,WALGREENS as well as stores in the ARCADE which by the way still there today with a fresh look.

YES those were the days my friends which we no doubt figured would last forever but they are gone.Shopping today is no doubt done at the malls where the temperature is comfortable and there is free ample parking not like downtown where you need to feed the meter or chance a parking ticket.I miss the MONDAYS AND THURSDAY nights downtown.I miss the hustle and bustle shopping from store to store and miss meeting my friends too gathered about.YES those days are history now but so vivid they remain in my memory of the good old days.

AUTHOR RICHARD SATTANNI BRIDGEPORT RESIDENT

YOU can write to RICH at rsauthor00@gmail.com

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