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
I agree with all of you who said that last week’s photo (at right and in larger size below) was a tough one. I would have had no clue if I had not been provided with the location by the Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical Society.
Some of our local history experts, including all who commented directly on the article, actually got this one wrong.
“Your photo is of the property at the intersection of Farmington Ave. and Boulevard … adjacent to the Stop&Shop property … currently still a dry cleaners … Battistons I believe,” wrote Rob Rowlson.
“David” wrote, “Could this be what was the Nelco Laundry that was at the corner of Farmington and Evergreen ? (I recognize the thick timber fence).”
David Traub couldn’t pinpoint the location, but had some other recollections of New England Laundry: “I don’t remember where it was but they always did the sheets and tablecloths and everything came back in blue paper with pink ribbons.”
Pat Mancinelli commented on Facebook that this might be the property later occupied by the Mobil Station at the corner of Raymond Road and Farmington Avenue.
Nancy Law thought New England Laundry was on New Park Avenue in a building that was razed years ago.
Judy McDonald, who commented on Facebook, was the only one who got it right! “This one was on the corner of LaSalle Rd. Worked there after school at Hall, with three other classmates. A fun time …” she wrote.
New England Laundry was at the corner of LaSalle Road and Ellsworth. This photo was taken in June 1966. Does anyone else remember it now?
Courtesy Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical Society
This week’s image (at right and in larger size below) should be a bit easier!
Where and when do you think this photo was taken?
What businesses are in this space now?
Please share your memories below!
Thank you to the Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical Society for providing us with the images. For more information about the organization, visit www.noahwebsterhouse.org.
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Courtesy Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical Society
New England Laundry was at the corner of LaSalle Road and Ellsworth. Courtesy Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical Society
You know, I was thinking this was on Lasalle – should have commented. Of all things, I remember the fence. Maybe I sat on that fence a lot when I was young?
That’s on Farmington Avenue. Black Bamboo and Harvest Wines and Liquors are there now.
I was originally going to say “Who cares. Check those fins.”
However, I believe Ed is correct. “Kingswood Package Store” sign gives it away.
I always wondered whether Kingswood School administrators were happy about their name.
I went into the Package Store only once or twice, but the smell of cigarette smoke grossed me out.
Ronnie,redeem me for m last weeks error…. last weeks was formally Mechanics Bank and now houses Max Burger… I feel stupid… haha…This is the corner of Ardmore and Farmington… formerly a drug store with old fashion soda counter….Kingswood Package Store and the white house housed a flower shop… Black Bamboo Restaurant…
Kingswood Market, Frank the barber was up stairs. And yes, Kingswood Package store (ahh, memories!) Judy Manchester had a real estate office in the white building on the second floor at one time.