What is now the major parcel Part 8

From Jackson St we turn west and enter Valley St. There was a three faily on the south side and St Joseph's Parochial School to the North. A two fanily on the north side of which the Shey family lived, John J, Shey was the first young man to die, from Willimantic, in the First World War His house was a very small cottafe on the corner of Broad and Valley.. A member of his family was a god parent to my father when he was baptized. There were fourteen families living on Broad St, (that ran from Valley to Union St.) At one time The Strand Theatre was there and we spent may happy Saturdays watching serials of cowboy movies and sometimes taking home a free plate that was given away. Valley  St from Broad St. going west has St Mary;s Parochial School on the north side and Willimantic Plumbing Supply on the south. There were four families living there. Valley St from Broad St. to Center:  St Mary's French Roman Catholic Church and two families across the street.Electronic Radio and Television was located next to the dwellings.

St Mary's as seen from redevelopment neighborhood

Returning  back toward Main, turning left on Valley St. Extension there there was eleven families on both the left and right sides of the street.The street ended on Milk St. At one time there was a fruit and vegetable warehouse at the end of the street because in those days produce was carried into Willimantic by train so many businesses had there back doors facing the track.

Twenty four families lived on Center St., from Union to Valley St  The Franco American Club (French Club) was located half way between Union and Valley Steets.   It was in an old factory building  and was used for many parties.  My cousin, Helen McShay and John Smith  had their wedding reception their and I was called on to help serve the dinners, I also gave my mother, her seventy fifth birthday party there. Ray's Electric Co was on the street as was The Center St Garage.  My cousin, Twiddle Lucy like to tell what was a joke but was actually true. Some one asked him where the Center St. Garage was. (On Center St. of course) Riquier Vending Machines was also on the street.

Temple Street which ran North from Union to Valley housed The Willimantic Institute of Hairdressing and Cosmetology.  There were twelve families living on the street.  My friends Faye, Benny and David Semel lived on the street and I visited often.

On Valley Street between Temple and Church was The A&P and a liquor store.  Only the liquior store remains.  Today the facade has been remodeled and the A&p space is now occupied by the Food Co-op

So I say again as in the song
Where have all the people gone?


Threadcity.com   Has been kind to share 3 galleries of Willimantic Redevelopment 
Pictures.Thank you Threadcity 
http://www.threadcity.com/gallery/thumbnails.php?album=18&page=1
http://www.threadcity.com/gallery/thumbnails.php?album=18&page=2
http://www.threadcity.com/gallery/thumbnails.php?album=18&page=3

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