Wetherhold & Metzger was one of the giants of Hamilton Street. The extended family operated two stores on Hamilton Street. When exactly was the height of the golden era I suppose is a frame of reference. I can tell you that as a early baby boomer, Hamilton Street was booming in the 1950's. With three large department stores, three large 5&10's, half a dozen shoe stores, half a dozen jewelers, women and men's stores, there was something for everybody. In addition to Hamilton, stores were also located on the number streets.
MOLOVINSKY UNIVERSITY
At 2:00pm this afternoon, I will present a 1930 map showing the business district of downtown Allentown. We will be meeting at The Coffee House Without Limits. The shop is located on 4th, just north of Tilghman Street, in the Alternative Gallery. You are cordially invited to join us.
above reprinted from September of 2016
ADDENDUM JUNE 13, 2022: For many of Allentown's new residents, without the above frame of reference, today is the golden era for Hamilton Street. There are certainly many new buildings, but not much yet in the way of people or retail. The term urban office park is now being used. The developer is also building numerous new apartment houses. Although both the coffee house and university mentioned above have since closed their doors, this fall I hope to conduct an alumni meeting, at one of the new coffee houses at 7th and Hamilton Sts..
The city was still vibrant in the 1960's, but like much in the country the decline began in the late 60's and early 70's. Much had to do with those with incomes and assets deciding to exodus this city and many others in America.
ReplyDeleteDowntown ghost town look continues. Buildings seem to be in mothballs and with Pat Browne leaving will the decline spiral?
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