Picture Enfield - Then And Now

ENFIELD, CT — If this week's look back into Enfield history seems familiar, it's because we ran this photo last year during this time. However, it is appropriate to the season, and is one of the truest reflections of the many changes Enfield has undergone over the years.

This image from 1955 depicts Pearl Street, looking southbound. At that time, downtown Thompsonville merchants used to string holiday lights across the roadway. Committee members included Al LaRussa of LaRussa Appliance Store, Vincent Sferrazza of Vincent's Apparel, Myron Marek of Marek Jewelers and Robert Gray of Faber's World of Carpets.

This view has changed considerably in the last 6-plus decades. Here is a more contemporary look, taken Wednesday morning by yours truly.

Last week's trivia answer:
Last week's trivia question was: "The children's reading room at the Enfield Central Library is named after what longtime town leader?" The answer: Francis "Roxy" Burke Jr., who served 14 years on the Enfield Board of Education, including 10 as chairman, then had two terms on the town council as Enfield's mayor. He later was named executive director of the North Central Connecticut Chamber of Commerce, but lost his battle with cancer on Independence Day 2002. The children's reading room was dedicated in his honor in March 2005.

This week's trivia question:
Who is the freak in the above photo? Post the answer in the comments section below under your real name (we'll see who follows directions).