Test your knowledge of West Hartford history with this ‘Thursday Throwback,’ courtesy of the Noah Webster House and West Hartford Historical Society.
By Ronni Newton
It’s Throwback Thursday (#tbt), and time to take a look back into West Hartford’s past to either stir up some memories, reflect on how much things have changed, or both. And if you have no idea, we love the photo captions, too!
Courtesy Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical Society
Last week’s photo (at right and in larger size below) was of a place that many longtime West Hartford residents recalled, and the building was identifiable even to newcomers.
There is one very funny comment, too …
Liz Gillette was the first to comment, and correct about the location as well as the date (1966): “It’s the pet store in Bishop’s Corner next to the post office. We used to call it ‘Anderson-Litell,’ like we say ‘Tarjay’ for Target now. A big point was that it was open until 9 and didn’t close at 5 like everywhere else. I think they were a national chain, pretty big stuff for little West Hartford! Looks like the later ’60s to me.”
David Perkins wins the prize for the most humorous memory: “I don’t remember the building but I DO remember the endless radio ads on WTIC and WDRC! Also the source of a classic radio blooper: ‘Shop now at Anderson-Little, where prices are high and quality is low!'”
“Anderson Little is now Pet Supplies Plus in Bishop’s Corner,” added Giovanni Seccareccia.
“I still have my Anderson Little raincoat that my father bought me when I was in high school. Great coat. Still looks good with any suit,” recalled “Bruce.”
Pet Supplies Plus now occupies the former Anderson Little space at 2480 Albany Ave. in West Hartford’s Bishops Corner. Photo courtesy of Charlie Eisenberg
“Corner of Albany Avenue and North Main Street. I think it was in the 60’s. Anderson Little was a regional chain. It originally sold only men’s clothing.There is a Pet Store there now,” added “Barbara.”
Those who commented on Facebook also correctly identified the location as the space now occupied by Pet Supplies Plus. Charlie Eisenberg even provided an up-to-date photo!
Jeff Murray added the following details on Facebook: “Opened in Oct. 1963 as the fifth Anderson-Little in Connecticut! Suffered a fire eleven years later, but made it without anything serious.”
This week’s photo (at right and in larger size below) is of an easily-recognizable roadway but many elements in the scene have changed.
Where was this photo taken?
When was this photo taken?
What businesses are in this location now?
Please share your memories below.
Thank you to the Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical Society for providing us with the images. They are always looking for new images to add to the collection. Visit their website atwww.noahwebsterhouse.org for more information about membership and programs.
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Courtesy Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical Society
Anderson-Little was located at 2480 Albany Ave., currently home to Pet Supplies Plus. Courtesy Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical Society
Farmington Avenue looking toward Hartford. The Mobil gas station in the background is the much discussed vacant lot that has turned into an eyesore.
Farmington Ave looking East…French Dye Works still there as French Dry Cleaners….
I see the Hampshire House, which we referred to as “Hartford Hospital Annex” because of the white brick .
As others said – Farmington ave near Raymond Road. French’s is still in the same building – called French’s Cleaners now. The Chevy in the adjacent lot is a 1965 model and most others are older, so this picture is from the mid-late 60’s most likely.
I have read that Hampshire House was also called ‘the white elephant’ when it was being built. I believe it is actually the tallest building in West Hartford at seven stories and perhaps second only to Corporate West in foot print and mass. The pine trees that now grow up the western side and other landscaping do an amazing job of softening its impact. Taming electrical lines also matters. The picture shown is stark and unattractive, (mid-late sixties?). The businesses and functions are largely unchanged but the contrast to present day is significant.Trees! I think the billboard on to of French’s may be the only allowed, grandfathered billboard in West Hartford.
I do think Hampshire House is the biggest building in West Hartford, built in the mid 60s.
Is the sign on the side of Quaker Diner also grandfathered? I guess that is not actually a billboard.
I do