Memory Lane ... #2

Down Memory Lane to ... Jewelers' Row

(Note: This blog is not intended to be an advertisement or endorsement of any kind for businesses mentioned here. Nor will it be a fact filled history lesson. It is just a nostalgic look back with a personal touch.)     

Sometimes there are places and things in plain sight that we fail to see because we have no need for what they offer. This was true for me during the late 1950's and early 1960's. During that era, the stores on Main Street in Royersford offered everything that the local folks needed. I was only aware of the ones that provided some sort of fun, food or entertainment.

It wasn't until my early teen years that I had a need for something special for that special someone. It was then, right there on good old Main Street that I noticed Zenker's and Christman's Jewelery stores. Zenker's had been there the whole time and Christman's just recently opened. Even at my young age I wondered how this small town could support two Jewelery stores located just steps away from each other. Now as I look back it is obvious, at least in my opinion. These two stores, although competitors, were different enough to attract and hold a very loyal customer base. 

I recently took a stroll and snapped these pictures of Christman's store and the former location of Zenker's. (I think) I sort of remember Zenker's original location being down the street a bit further and a little investigating tells me it was 305 Main but that building has been torn down. Their newer location is up on Fifth Avenue and Main Street with the name changed to Calhoun's. 

Anyway, Zenker's was the typical showplace that caught your eye. Carefully decorated display windows with sparkling glass and silver faced the sidewalk for all to see. Walking inside through the center placed door were polished wood cabinets that held more treasures. The lighting was set to capture all the glory. Zenker's was, without a doubt, the place to go for the good things in life.  As a matter of fact, way to good for me! Zenker's has since changed their name and location but continue in the same tradition. 

Christman's also had very attractive window displays and counters with just the right amount of lighting to give the  silver, gold and diamond jewelry the proper shine and glisten. Other items like Timex watches were also displayed with care in glass cabinets. Christman's attracted me because of the more home-like feel and at that time, perceived affordability.  

So at the early age of thirteen, or was it fourteen, I stepped into Christman's store with a few dollars in my pocket in hopes of finding a "Friendship Ring".  For those that remember, a "Friendship Ring" was what a boy gave a girl to show his affection and at that point, if accepted,  were considered to be "going steady".  Somehow, between the butterflies and cold sweats, I asked to see the Friendship rings. This initial feeling can be compared to that first time a young man goes into a drug store for his first pack of, well you know, gum. Anyway, Mr. Christmans' soft approach and smile welcomed initial eye contact and business was underway. Still at the same location today very little has changed. When I visit it is easy and enjoyable to remember that first time.  

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoy following my footsteps of yesterday. Next will be a visit to one of Royersford's businesses that knew how to make the town take notice!