Needless to say that when I was a kid downtown Allentown was bustling. There was nothing that you couldn't find or buy on Hamilton Street. The mercantile district was so vigorous that it could support stores and businesses two blocks out in either direction. Across the street from the Earl Theater on 8th Street, the Look Steak Shop did a hardy business. Also in that block was Stangl's Jewelry, Goodin's Optical and a hearing aid business.
It is a little difficult to recognize those businesses in the photograph above. While the city and newspaper was lauding the progress of the upcoming arena, I was documenting the demolition of the city's history. The buildings were not the only victims. The last group of owner operators were also roughed up by the city...I also documented that.
I apologize to those of you who are happy season ticket holders at the new arena. While you can read about the progress at numerous other sites, including the city web page, City Center Realty, and The Morning Call, this blog commemorates the past.
reprinted from previous years
Reading the history books it seems every generation has witnessed the razing of mansions, theaters, hotels, houses, and other important buildings for someones visions of the new. While other towns preserve their history, Allentown demolishes it. Now we have buildings that will not be standing for too long and will either go through constant change or become empty lots.
ReplyDeleteWhen I lived in DC, my boss was an architect, and I asked him why are the buildings near our office always under construction. He said these new buildings really only have about a 20 year shelf life, the concrete cracks, and a new facade needs to be installed. If that is the case with these glass and concrete buildings, not even they will last long enough to be historic.
Allentown will be completely transient.