August 14, 1963 Appleton Post-Crescent
Talk about a complete makeover. It's hard to believe that this:
Came from this:
Until I read this newspaper article, I had thought that the old bank was razed and a new one put in its place. If the bankers were looking for a more modern look, they certainly succeeded as the new facility surely had the look of the 1960's while the old bank looked dated in that dignified, yet stuffy bank sort of way.
Likely car in left corner is Doc Lawrence Corry's. His office was above the bank. The spot was no parking but the cops ignored it for him. The business in the center was Walker's barber shop. On the right was Leopold's Bar.
ReplyDeleteThe first comment is excellent. Really adds to the feel of the old photo. Doctor's office, bank, barber shop, tavern, all in the same building. What more could a guy want!
ReplyDeleteMany readers are too young to remember that Mihms used to be located behind those three buildings on Chute street. Rumor has it that the bank bought Rudy Mihm's out and built him his new place across the street just so they could put in a drive-in window.
ReplyDeleteMenasha was a thriving City back then.. impressive buildings and an assorted variety of businesses. Wonder when it all started to go downhill.
ReplyDeleteWhen did Menasha cease to thrive? I saw it happen as a kid in the 50s but the decline was destined long before that. In the 50s our parents flocked to downtown Appleton on Friday nights to spend their paychecks. College Ave was wide, parking was adequate and, most importantly, there were large department stores; Gloudeman's, Sears, "Monkey Wards," and, of course Prange's. Dozens of other stores benefited from the attraction of these biggies. Valley Fair Shopping Center didn't help the situation.
ReplyDeleteMenasha had dozens of bars, many downtown where even the mill workers on the 11 - 7 shift could get a beer. There were few shops and no department stores. Neenah did a little better; not so many bars and a small department store with squeaky wooden floors, Jandries.