Main Street – July 29, 1948

By Morris Rote-Rosen

The appeal to the Hon. William S. Preston, chairman of the Vermont Fish and Game Commission, in the "Main Street" column of July 15, against the "Fisherman's Curse" - the motor boats on Lake St. Catherine - brought an immediate reply, dated July 16. Part of the letter which accompanied the "Main Street" paragraph, addressed to Mr. Preston, was as follows: "The disregard which motor boat owners show to those who like to go out for a few hours of fishing, will, sooner or later result in a drowning, as well as in the 'killing' of the fishing on Lake St. Catherine. We know the fair-minded legislators in your state are always striving for the betterment of the conditions in one of the finest states God ever placed on the map."

Mr. Preston's reply reads in part as follows: "Thank you for your neighborly letter of July 15 and for the clipping of your column, both referring to the disregard which motor boat owners show for fishermen on Lake St. Catherine. Our Commission will meet July 21, and I will see that your letter will be discussed with a view of doing whatever we can to help correct this situation. It seems too bad that some persons do not have sufficient regard for, and courtesy toward, other people to follow out the Golden Rule. I will let you know what I find out this coming week."

Besides writing to Mr. Preston we contacted Troopers Flether and Hovey of the Vermont State Police who also gave assurance that it is within the jurisdiction of the State Police to warn all motor boat operators on Lake St. Catherine that their conduct, as complained of, is a violation of the Vermont state laws and that an effort will be made to notify all motor boat operators on Lake St. Catherine against the practice of interfering with fishing. Judging from the encouragement from the above two sources and from the fact that statutes are made in Vermont for the purpose of enforcement, sportsmen may now look for relief from  a long established nuisance thanks to the Vermont state authorities.

Our singing the praises of Granville from time to time in "Main Street" is not sponsored by the Granville Chamber of Commerce, nor is it a publicity stunt to "sell" Granville. But, we cannot disregard remarks that visitors, looking for a new place to settle in, make when they come to Granville, look over our village, interview our people to learn more about our community. Hardly a week passes, during the summer months, when some stranger doesn't come into the office to seek information about Granville. And we are happy to furnish it.

Last week a Mrs. Edwin Thomas Judson from New Bedford, Mass., came into the office to seek information about Granville. We offered her a seat and the first remark from Mrs. Judson was: "You have a charming village. I never saw anything like it. I stopped at the bank and the people there were just lovely. I had lunch in the restaurant and the lady waiting on me was most courteous and kind. I stopped in one of your stores and the clerks put themselves out to wait on me. I saw your hospital and the beautiful view surrounding it and your fine churches and well kept residences. You have one of the most charming towns and you may see me again."

Mrs. Judson is retiring as an official of a tool manufacturing company in New Bedford, Mass., and Mrs. Judson is looking for a new home and Granville made a hit with her. She inquired about the assessed valuations and tax rate of Granville and other advantages which the town officers. We didn't have to "sell" Granville to her. Mrs. Judson was sold on it as can be proved from the above quotation which we scribbled down while Mrs. Judson sang the praises of Granville. And if the village appeared charming to Mrs. Judson, she impressed us as a most charming woman. People like Mrs. Judson would be an asset to our community.

Ed Moloney was telling about the Granville man who was found carrying a set of false teeth in his pants pocket. Asked if that is where he usually carries his false teeth the man said that he did not and that the teeth belonged to his wife. "When I have them in my pocket I know she won't eat. I save a lot of money that way." Michael Macura, delivering a parcel post package, happened along in time to hear the story as told by Moloney. "Is that a fact?" asked Michael, as he went away shaking his head and wondering. As if Moloney ever told a story that wasn't a fact.

Parker Davies stopped in for a visit while Mrs. Davies was making the rounds of the local stores. Parker, son of Dr. Davies, is associated with the Pennsylvania Light and Power Company at Hazelton, Pa. and is spending his vacation at his cottage at Lake St. Catherine. Dr. Davies is with them and that 83-year old beloved retired Granville physician, who called a few days later, looks hale and hearty and his many friends are pleased to see him. Granville's heart beats with a warmth of kindness for Dr. Davies as much as ever, and his mark on the community can not be erased even in retirement. His influence is felt in the life, health and welfare of Granville even to this day.

When Parker Davies thought that he was "too old" to take his two children for a hike on the mountain top, on the east side of Lake St. Catherine, Grandfather Davies volunteered for the job and he carried it out like a Boy Scout. He blazed the rail for the youngsters to the mountain top, meeting a large live porcupine on the trail to the delight of the children, and came down out of the woods without any signs of fatigue. It was good to have Dr. Davies pay "Main Street" a social call. We know of no other of our older citizens who commands more respect in Granville than Dr. Davies. A former mayor, health officer, civic leader. We miss Dr. Davies in Granville.

Another caller was George (Hank) McDonough of Albany, a former Granville resident, who was interested in the slate business until the business depression compelled him to give it up and find work elsewhere. George is employed by the United States government with the army engineers at Voorheesville. He is a veteran of World War I, who talked of the early days of the American Legion and when he was a regular member of the minstrel cast. "We had a lot of fun in those days," said George, "and no matter where I go, Granville is home to me."

John DeKalb, appreciating a few kind words about him in "Main Street", reciprocated with a beautiful sprig of Regal Lillies which he ceremoniously presented to us. Carrying the lillies in our hand down the street caused Hazel Forsell to remark: "If you lie down, people will take you for dead." Hazel would make a remark like that ... Then Richard L. (Dick) Pritchard happened along and resented the charge that World War I veterans are old. "What do you mean by saying in your column that all World War I veterans are old and can't take it? I'm the oldest of the Granville Legionnaires and I can still march with the best of them."

The commander of the soldiers of World War I is one and America lost one of her ablest soldiers and greatest patriots. General Pershing and George Washington were the only two to attain the rank of General of the Armies. There may never be another such rank because of the special law passed by Congress when Pershing was elevated to that high position. General Pershing had an outstanding record from the days of the Indian fighting, through the Philippines, Mexico and France. He was one of the old school of "hard boiled" soldiers about whom Clemenceau, the "Tiger of France". once remarked: "He (Pershing) was the stubbornest man I ever met, a stickler for military courtesy and smartness of reserved demeanor and in the eyes of the men in the ranks, cold."

Main Street – July 22, 1948

By Morris Rote-Rosen

Eye-arresters: The meticulously trimmed Vandyke of Truman R. Temple ... The snow-white hair of Rev. Ira M. Stanton ... The shuffling feet of nonagenarian Ben Getty ... The high-pitched voice of Walter Doty ... The yawning, open car of Tom King, on "Sentinel" day, waiting to be loaded ... The curls of "Cathie" Williams, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Oswald Williams ... The plodding team of horses of Hubert Haley who never heard of the motor age ... The contagious laughter of Lester Race ... The long stride of Dr. D. J. Campbell.

Granville's only lady taxi driver - "Joe" Hayes ... The license plate of S. M. Rising: "P 19-09" (Princeton 1909) ... The shiny baldplate of Arthur Austin on a hot July day ... Arthur Cronin's new Granville-Glens Falls bus ... The pleasant greeting of Mrs. J. N. Huyck in any kind of weather ... The long visored cap of Captain "Walt" Brown ... The inseparable pals: Michael Chornyak and his old pipe ... The morning baritone groan of Albert Berkowitz, which is a song to him ... The tired looking feet of "Eddie" Keelan, which can do a tap dance at a moment's notice.

The infectious smile and pearly teeth of Ernest Morris ... The long, loose dangling arms of George Woodard - a la Abraham Lincoln ... Granville's pretty babies ... The jaunty angle of the cap of Chief of Police "Dick" Stanton ... The summer visitors star-gazing at Granville store signs ... Hitch hikers lining East Main street, thumbing traffic for Lake St. Catherine ... David J. McHenry and his two grandsons ... The television aerials atop the Main street buildings ... The colored slate floor and walls in the post office .. The memorial bank clock, a constant reminder of the guardians of American liberty.

The river watchers on the West Main street bridge ... The characters going to and coming from Water street ... The cigarette butt picker ... The advertising on the Railway Express truck ... The Diesel railroad engines ... Pauline Pauquette (period) ... The inconspicuous J. W. Gillespie - a gentleman of the old school ... The Sam Browne belts on the Granville police ... Carl Hall when wearing a Legion cap ... The colored neon signs at night ... The rumble of falling bowling pins on the Caruso and Grottoli alleys ... The tiny grocery delivery truck of Harold Edwards.

And while on the subject of eye-arresters, how would you like to walk up to an automobile, peek in and find the glazed eyes and open mouth of a dead man staring you in the face? It happened to us the other day when we passed the office of Dr. Irvine. A car was parked on the sidewalk and we had to take to the road. Curiously we looked into the car and there was "Ownie" Jones, who had just expired, sitting in the back seat, in a natural pose, except for his death mask. Frank Yauger and "Hepper" Williams were the only two in sight. They found him ill on Water street and brought him to Dr. Irvine.

While more than five hundred deaths have been reported the July 4 holiday, Granville reported none except a runaway horse. The occupants fell out and no one was injured ... When we met "Jim" Hitt, an old classmate, he seemed to be worried about Americans losing their liberties if we have another war ... "Him" has cause for worry, like the rest of us. American people are being regimented more and more each day by losing their governmental powers and by being taken over by centralized government, both in the state and in that nation.

Local governments are being deprived of the power and authority of local administration. The village Board of Trustees, under the New York State Laws, has had certain powers conferred upon them for the management of the affairs a village. Today they are no longer permitted to appoint officers for the village. They are not even allowed to exercise their judgment in the financial affairs of the village. Additional laws, every time the Legislature meets, are gradually placing a noose on representative government and if the people of our country continue to doze, they will find themselves on the end of a dictatorial rope.

Overheard in a local store: "Hello, Bill, what are you doing here you old son of a gun?" It was a greeting of two summer visitors to Granville and the lake. "I have been coming up here for the past 15 years," was the answer. "What are you doing here?" he asked and the other replied: "I heard what a nice place Granville is and I thought that I would try it this summer." Still shaking hands the other said: "You're right. This is the sweetest little town I have run into in a long, long time. Great little place, people are so friendly and neighborly."

Visitors to "Main Street" this week were Clifton Neal, Poultney; Bert Hills of Waltham, Mass., and Tom McDonough from Elmira Heights. Neal is associated with the Bomoseen Raceway at Hydeville, summer harness racing program ... Bert Hills is trying to learn the art of woodchopping from 90 year old Levi Pratt in Wells. Bert dropped into the office in time to renew acquaintance with Bert Nichols and the two pow-wowed about Granville at the turn of the century and both had an enjoyable time.

"Tom" McDonough who was born and raised in the American House talked of the Pember opera house, when, as a little fellow, he made the theater his hang-out. He talked about "Tom" Boyle, manager of the Pember theater and the old show days. "Tom" brought regards from his step-mother Kate McDonough, an old friend of long standing. "Tom" was also a member of the Granville fire department. "I must try to come up carnival week," said "Tom", "my vacation is never complete without paying the old home town a visit."

Those of us who have had dealings with "Pat" Tierney regret his going out of business. "Pat" who has been with the Munson and Tierney firm for 25 years will be remembered by his many customers for his square dealing and for his courtesy. Particularly, during the war, his worries added a few gray hairs to "Pat's" head. He was most considerate to his customers to see that there was an equal and fair distribution to all. Sorry to see you quit your business "Pat". You couldn't have picked a better successor than John Scott. Good luck to both of you.

From Miss Mary-Lewis Finch, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Roy Finch. "This is just a little note to tell you what an awfully nice item, I thought you had in 'Main Street' last week, about mother and dad. It isn't too often that I get 'starry eyed' about things like that, but your little paragraph has touched me very much. I am sure, is because all that you said is so very true. They are two pretty grand people and no one can know that better than I. My richest blessing is having had their loving care, guidance and companionship, and I hope and pray I will continue to have it for many more." ... Which is our sincere prayer also, Mary.

Main Street – July 15, 1948

By Morris Rote-Rosen

Snapshots of the Independence Day parade: The Main street clear of all traffic ... sidewalks crowded with spectators, local and visiting ... Children seated on the sidewalk curbs ... Sergeant Hugh C. Hughes of the U. S. Cavalry, home on furlough, making himself heard over the sound amplifier ... Announcing the program of the day ... At 10 o'clock, not a cloud in the sky ... The hot July sun beating down to make some folks uncomfortable ... World War I veterans, some roly-poly, others, gray-haired and a few bald headed ones, a contrast to the World War II veteran who is light of step and full of youthful vigor.

Mildred (Mrs. Lester E.) Roberts, walking alone, greeted by friends who are happy to see her improvement after a long illness ... Edward H. Porter, just returned from his winter's vacation and rest, looking physically fit, in his summer sport outfit ... And he was too feeble to be moved last fall ... C. F. McMaster admiring a group of babies in their carriages, one of whom is sharing her carriage wit her pet dog ... At 10:30 the voice over the amplifier announces: "The parade is on the way" ... Necks crane, children step out on to the pavement, every one looking to the west ... A distant drum beat is heard, the parade is approaching.

Joe Labate, smilingly hugging that little grandson of his ... Marguerite Scott, framed in the open window of her new insurance office, over the bank building, waves to friends below. (No charge for this plug Marguerite) ... Behind her, in the shadows of her office, is none other than her father Charles W. Barker ... The tall young woman, in blue shorts, a lollypop sticking out of her mouth, leaning against a lamp post, indifferent to all the anticipation of the crowd ... Kiddie cars, go-carts, tricycles, miniature bicycles, in evidence everywhere among the younger generation.

The drum beat is now louder and a bass note coming from a band horn is heard with it ... Necks are craned, children are lifted to their daddies' shoulder, every one edging over for a better view ... The courteous police detail of Chief Richard Stanton motions the people to stay on the sidewalk ... A lady driver, thinking that all the vacant parking space, restricted to others, was meant for her, looks indignant as she drives away talking to herself: "A fine town when you can't park your car on the street", she was heard to say, and she wondered why there are such holidays as Independence Day, celebrated on the 5th of July ... The police officer shrugs his shoulders and smiles at her.

Here they come! ... From the village square looking west, the tops of the flag masts appear over the Main street incline, near the railroad tracks ... Flags come into view, carried by army khaki clad and sailor whites ... A white speck, looming from the low level on the crossing, slowly comes in full view ... It's the white shako of Howard Licence the drum major ... The band, thirty strong, led by "Bill" Corey, is applauded along the line of march ... Behind the band is the official car driven by Evan R. Evans ... Besides him is Mayor M. L. (Ted) Brown in a VFW cap ... In the rear is Village Trustee Raymond Roberts wearing a Legion cap ... While Trustee "Bill" Thomas is content with his familiar slouch hat.

Everybody loves a parade because it is fun to watch one pass, but a strange silence grips the spectators as the first float passes ... "My Buddy" is inscribed on the side of the float representing the Veterans of Foreign Wars ... A grave with freshly covered gravel ... A helmet dangling from a white cross at the head of the grave ... Corporal Charles Winchell of the U.S. Marines, kneels, holding a rifle ... His head is bowed ... As veterans turn their heads, or lower them, the lump in the throat and the pull at the heart-strings is more than they can stand ... A veteran brings his hand to his eye and presses his tears to keep them from rolling down his cheek ... He bites his lips.

The parade passes in review, one float after another, all arranged in good taste, most of them representing historical and civic groups. It takes time and labor to originate ideas. And while cash prizes are an incentive, it is the spirit behind it that counts most, the spirit to observe a patriotic occasion and to do something that will be a credit to the community. It is America in action. To commemorate Independence Day, or some other patriotic holiday, is a tradition with us and anything for the best interests of our country is greatly appreciated by the rank and file of our citizens.

A. C. (Del) Cline found himself lost on the morning of the parade. And in Granville too. "Del" didn't know where to find the American Legion with which he was to march in the parade. Finding him in a daze we picked him up and offered to take him anywhere he wished to go. "Let's go down to the high school. Maybe the Legion is there", says "Del". We drove our car behind the Granville band when they made their first trip down Main street with "Del" in the back seat. People looked into the car to see the "dignitary" escorted by the band. "Del" never claimed to be a conquering hero but for once he rode like one - with the Granville band leading him.

When we stated two weeks ago that the fishing of Roy Finch might lower Lake St. Catherine we weren't too far off in our prediction. That week Charles Potter, assisted by Roy, landed a black bass which at that time weighed 6 and one half pounds, and no doubt, has gained weight and stature since then ... David Beecher came away with the 4th of July prize from Hartford. He won a heifer on a fifty cent ticked. "Dave" opened the door of his two-door sedan, tipped one of the seats and the heifer walked into it to be brought to Granville. "Dave" is quite proud of that.

That letter from Mr. Barlow, about the $3,000,000 rock-crushing plant erected in Riverside, California, might have been a local project, if the representatives of the Johns-Manville company had been successful, several years ago, in obtaining some of the slate rights in the Granville area. But, the company representatives received no encouragement, except from Hugh G. Williams, and the matter was dropped. It may have meant the different between a first-class business corporation, employing hundreds of men, and the few now employed in the slate industry. We missed the boat that time.

Is there anything that can so embitter one against his fellowman like racial and religious prejudice? That Granville man who refused to sign the nominating petition of Senator Benjamin Feinberg, "because he is a Jew" would no doubt receive a 100 percent Granville Jewish vote if he, as a Christian, chose to run for public office. Senator Feinberg, majority leader in the Republican party in New York State, needs no apologists for his fine public record and his service to the State. And yet, "because he is a Jew" there was one signer less on the petition. That one signature did not matter, but it is a violation of the principles of our constitution of which every qualified voter should be conscious.

The "Fishermen's Curse" - the motor boat - is operating with a vengeance on Lake St. Catherine this summer and unless fishermen get some protection from the Vermont Fish and Game Commission, fishing on Lake St. Catherine, within a few years, will be a rarity. Motor boat operators show no consideration for fishermen, or for fishing boats, and they not only kill the fishing by driving the fish from one end of the lake to another but are also threatening to capsize the fishing boats. This is an SOS call to the Hon. W. S. Preston, chairman of the Vermont Fish and Game Commission, from those who love Vermont and its fishing waters to give us some relief. What about it Mr. Preston?

Main Street – July 8, 1948

By Morris Rote-Rosen

Granville places with television sets attracted record crowds to witness the Louis-Walcott heavyweight championship bout held at the Yankee Stadium in New York. Perhaps never in the history of sports was such an interest aroused as in this fight, if one can tell it, that, after seeing Walcott's terpsichorean ballet combined with a display of jittery shadow boxing. Not only men, but women and children, were eager to witness the fight and every business place in Granville with television was crowded to capacity. Even "Jack" McHenry's "private" party in the store made the store walls budge with interested boxing fans.

We saw the first fight at Dwyer's and we wondered if Walcott would repeat his imitation of the fawn dance at the last fight. We predicted in "Main Street" two weeks ago that Louis would win by a knockout in the sixth round providing he could catch Walcott. We were close except that it took Louis eleven rounds to catch the runaway Walcott. We witnessed the "fight" at Idylwild where Alton and Clifford Ellis installed a television set. And there were more than one hundred spectators there. The best part of the program was when a young lady from the seat in front of us turned around and said: "Will you have a kiss?" Startled in the darkness at such a strange request from a pretty little blond girl we finally noticed a bag of candy "kisses". It was the sweetest part of a sour program.

The fight was a disappointment until Joe Louis unleased his famous hay-maker in the eleventh round. Neither of the fighters gave one the impression that a championship was at stake. Louis was cautious, remembering what happened to him in the previous Walcott fight, when he it the ring with his seat twice. Walcott, scared to death, hoped to repeat his fifteen round "victory" by jabbing and running. From the result of the fight, it is apparent that the champion and challenger are both fit for retirement and the sooner the better for the boxing sport. Louis can retire with his crown and Walcott with his pipe dreams.

We didn't see Hiram D. Evans when he was in Granville, but over the telephone we felt the enthusiasm of Hiram for his lovely little daughter. That of course is as it should be. We hope some day to listen to a fatherly debate between Hiram Evans and Mac Manchester about the merits of their respective daughters. The flow of oratory would make a side show barker look like an amateur. But it would be fun nevertheless to hear the two to whom the late Major Paul Manchester, used to refer, when they were small boys, as "those two little devils". And wouldn't the major get a kick out of it all.

Hiram, in his few moments' conversation over the phone, harked back to the day when as a little boy we took him to the lake for an afternoon's outing. Offered some chocolate cake, Hiram, like any other boy, asked: "Can I have all the chocolate cake I can eat?" And he did. Then we gave him a fish pole and as he pulled the rock bass in, one after another, off the dock, he became so excited he shouted: "Pull for the shore boys, pull for the shore." And when the day was done Hiram Evans was returned to his home a tired but happy youngster. And he still talks about it today.

The passing of Will Forman of Pawlet, which saddened a host of his friends, brings to a close a triumvirate of old Master Masons of Morning Flower Lodge, F. and A. M., of Pawlet. These three had as much to do with the popularity of the Pawlet lodge as any of the members. They were Henry Warner, Charles Leach and Will Forman. Visiting Master Masons, to old Morning Flower, will have many pleasant recollections of Will Forman. We will remember him as he sat behind the desk of the lodge room, on a cold winter night, warming the lodge with his personality and kindness of heart. His wrinkled face, wreathed in smiles, his eyes blinking, his snow white hair showing under the brim of that famous high silk hat he wore on ceremonial occasions at the conferring of the side degree "The Sword of Bunker Hill".

His ready wit, his quick thinking, his ability to draw a laugh from any situation, which seemed bewildering to the candidate, but which had the members on the side lines rolling in their seats with convulsive laughter, made Will Forman a prince of good fellows. He would make any one happy in his company and strangers who visited the lodge for the first time felt that they had known him all their life. Will Forman was a part of the living spirit of Morning Flower lode and those who frequent the lodge will find a vacancy in the room which will be hard to fill. We mourn the passing of a good friend, a good man and a good Mason.

The song "Let's Stop Pretending", with the words and music written by "Dave" Lewis, a Granville man, now residing in Saranac, will, no doubt, have wide circulation ... Hats off to John Dekalb for the fine job he is doing on the Quaker street cemetery. John never worked any harder on a job than he did on this one and all for the satisfaction of having the resting place of the early pioneers - the members of the Society of Friends - not be a disgrace to the fine community they founded ... Few children possess the radiant personality of six-year old Karen Fragnoli, a remarkable little girl for her age.

Samuel G. Ayres, sizes up the rain barometer as follows: "It is natural for a rooster to crow, but let him crow continually during the day and you'll have rain within a few hours." ... Is the circulation of money tightening up in Granville? Two days before the dead-line of the village tax collection less than one-half of the village budget had been collected. ... Elwyn Holcomb of Fort Ann had the New York Conservation department remove four beavers from his property for damming and flooding four acres of land. Whenever Elwyn opened the dam, the beavers had it closed the next day.

Rev. William Barlow, former pastor of the Granville Baptist church, now of Riverside, California, writes in part as follows: "Just a few lines to convey my greetings for you and tell you how much I enjoy reading your column in the Granville Sentinel". Mr. Barlow, in his letter refers to the pictures of the high school honor students, and of Mary Betty Stevens which were published in a recent issue of the Sentinel and he sends greetings and best wishes to all. He writes that a huge $3,000,000 stone granule plant was opened in his vicinity, to furnish material for the Johns-Manville company. Mr. Barlow wonders if Granville hasn't over-looked an opportunity since Granville is able to furnish all the natural color slate stones from the local slate belt. "What a pity", writes Mr. Barlow, "that this plant was not built in Granville."

Recalling our pleasant association with him while he was in Granville, Rev. Mr. Barlow states: "There are a great many things that I would enjoy discussing with you. I am wondering if the solution of all the world's problems is not God. This is a moral universe. We are creatures, God is the Creator. God's will, word or law is beneficent when we turn to it and do it. We can not break that Will. It breaks us if we try it. Read Isaiah, first chapter, opening verses, and note if we have made as much advance over the people of those days."

Rev. and Mrs. Barlow are in the best of health and their friends in Granville will be pleased to learn that they enjoy their new home in Riverside, California. Mr. Barlow mentions Frank B. Jones who also is in California and who is employed as an electrician with a large manufacturing company. Frank was recently assigned to an electrical job in a Kaiser-Frazer iron mine. He lives with his wife and daughter and aunt Carrie (Jones) Smith near the Barlows. Mr. Barlow concludes: "Greetings to all my old friends in Granville. Of the many people I have known in Granville, however, I shall remember, as one of my high spots, the pleasure of knowing you as one of my sincere friends." ... Thanks Mr. Barlow. Best of luck and let's hear from you again.

Main Street – July 1, 1948

By Morris Rote-Rosen

Three communications, in the "Main Street" mail bag, from readers who asked that their names be not published. The first one writes: "Main Street stated that Dr. Tenney was the last of a professional and business men's group of nearly three quarters of a century, can you give us some of them who were active on the Main street of our village in 1878. It would be interesting to read the names of those who helped develop our village to its present condition. The readers of the Sentinel, I am sure, would like to know more about them and who they were." ... Anything to oblige. We may leave some out because of the lack of space but in general the following will be found interesting.

Granville was still known as Bishop's Corners, or as Granville Four Corners, in 1878 ... The population of our village was only 700 ... There were but a few merchants doing business on Main street ... Joseph Schiff clothier, was located in a wooden building which stood on the site of the present American House ... Jonas and Fuhs, conducted a general merchandising business next door to the Slocum B. Norton store which was located in the present Tatko brothers building on the corner of Main and Church street ... Judge Royal C. Betts had his law office over the Norton store where John W. Mayo also had a barber shop.

The Granville Sentinel was being published in a room over the Jonas and Fuhs store in the Norton block ... And in the same building Charles E. McFadden ran his watch and clock repair shop and jewelry store ... George W. Henry was doing a hardware business in the present Whitcomb location ... And "Dick" Durham's grocery store was in a wooden building on the site of the Sam Lichtig store.

John Watkins' cabinet shop and furniture store occupied a place of the present Stevens-Price store, it being the last business place on that side of the street ... From then on, traveling west on Main street was the residential section commencing with the H. N. Graves residence on the site of the present post office ... George W. Barker lived next to Graves and next to Barker was the home of a Mrs. Pulaski ... On the present site of the Louis D. Goldberg store, Oscar F. Thompson carried on a private banking and insurance business ... Where the Granville Inn stands was a house in which George R. Barker had his photograph studio.

Crossing the street, east of the present railroad track, on Main street, "Mike" Welch's store was in the present Barnard brothers location ... And where the Wilson Clothing company is doing business at the present time was the M. W. Clark drug store and above him H. H. Stoddard did clock and watch repairing ... J. H. Reynolds lived in the building which was razed to make room for the Farmers National Bank building and Dr. Nelson's residence was located on the site of the present Lasher store ... On the site of the present Henry D. Allen business was located the Washington hotel ... The post office was in the Charles W. Potter building now occupied by Rudd and O'Brien.

The present Lester E. Roberts building, which housed the Washington County National Bank at one time, was the site of a lot which was a roadway leading to a livery stable in the rear ... The "Jock" Warren store was an old landmark where the World War II Honor Roll is erected and next to it going east was a wooden building in which housed the millinery shop of Miss Phoebe Mulford, on the ground floor and Andrew Green had a harness shop over it, about where the present Hugh G. Williams office is located ... J. W. Percy's restaurant was about where the Beecher and Guthrie building is located on Church street ... Lawyers practicing in  this village when Dr. Tenney came here were Royal C. Betts, Oscar F. and Isaac W. Thompson ... And the physicians were Drs. Goodspeed, Monroe, Cook and Nelson, Tenney being the fifth ... The first bank in this village, the First National Bank of Granville (later the Granville National Bank) was three years old when Dr. Tenney came here.

Another one who prefers to sign "A Constant Reader of Your Column", a high school student, wrote a paragraph at the time when the students were raising funds with which to purchase and dedicate the High School memorial tablet to the graduates, who gave their lives in the service of their country. "I put it in my note book", the student writes, "and the other day I brought it out and read it. Lately you have been writing on this subject in your column and I couldn't help but send it to you. Read it and remember it. Or, read it and forget it, which ever you choose. I shall always remember. And so will many others."

Part of the note read as follows: "He was the youngest of the four who were called to serve his country and he was the one who never came back. Today he lies on foreign soil. If these boys could only see and hear the tribute paid them they would be proud of the many ways in which we honor them. They are gone, but they are not forgotten. In their place stands this (high school) plaque, an everlasting memorial to those listed "killed in action". The boys from our town of Granville. Memories linger forever." ... A four or five page essay on the subject couldn't convey more than the above few lines. It should bring consolation to the skeptics who fear that we can not trust the future of our country to our young people.

The third letter comes from an old, old friend of "Main Street", who also wishes to remain "Anonymous". With the letter was enclosed the following poem:

"Give me a good digestion, Lord,
Also something to digest.
Give me a healthy body, Lord,
And sense to keep it at its best.
Give me a mind that is not bored,
That does not whimper, whine or sigh,
Don't let me worry over-much,
About the fussy thing called 'I'.
Give me a sense of humor, Lord,
Give me the grace to see a joke.
That I may get some happiness in life,
And pass it on to other folk.
Millions make wealth the end and aim,
Others, a spot in the Hall of Fame,
But to me, Kind Sir, may heaven send,
The love of a true-hearted friend."

Catherine (Mrs. P. J. Conway) wants to know how come we have forgotten to mention so many of the Silver Wedding anniversaries being observed during the month of June this year. The answer is that there were so many it would take more than "Main Street" to mention them all. However, congratulations from "Main Street" to all the twenty-five year old brides and three cheers to the baldheaded, stooped-shoulders, dilapidated old husbands, who fought a brave and noble fight for a quarter of a century which added not twenty five, but one hundred years to their life. If we had our way we would send a bouquet of twenty-five roses to the wives and a distinguished service cross to the men.

The North Granville fire department teaches a lesson in unselfish community service. Only a few years old and the department is almost debt free, having paid off $5,559.00 without one cent's cost to the taxpayer. To work as hard as these North Granville firemen did for no reason than to serve their community and to protect their neighbors' property from destruction by fire requires personal sacrifices, and is worthy of commendation. There are many civic groups whose motto is "service", but none can reach the classification of a volunteer fire department. Nice work, fellow smoke-eaters. May your hose never run dry!

Now that Roy and Jessie Finch have reported officially with their summer greetings we can look forward to blue skies and sunny weather. Roy and Jessie are that way when they are around. Year after year we look forward to greet them, remembering them both, as of another generation, when Roy was a school boy and his gracious wife was better known to us as Jessie Weller. They never fail to bring a bushel basket full of pleasant memories which even the hands of time can not tarnish. Roy is whetting his fishing appetite by practicing on perch, but now that it is the first day of July watch the water level go down a few inches when he pulls the big ones out of the lake.

Granville Then & Now – November 24, 2022

Wilson speaks on ‘Sully’s Squad’ at Pember

By Erik Pekar

A few years ago, Granville native Kevin Wilson wrote and published a book, titled “Sully’s Squad.” On Nov. 4, he gave a presentation about this book to an audience at the Pember Library in Granville.

The book is named for Wilson’s uncle, Sullivan “Sully” Fringi, who was born in Granville in 1918 as Salvatore Fringi. He was the oldest of five children of John and Elenora Fringi, Italian immigrants who came to America separately and met in Granville. There was a trend at the time to Americanize foreign names, and Salvatore was later changed to Sullivan. He enjoyed sports and school. In 1935, Fringi’s father died, and he became the “man of the house.” He stayed in school, however, graduating from Granville High School in 1937.

The following year, Fringi enlisted in the Army. He served for what was to be a three-year commitment ending Dec. 8, 1941. It was not to be, due to the attack on Pearl Harbor the day before and the declaration of war by Congress against Japan on Dec. 8, following President Roosevelt’s “infamy” speech. With America now at war, Fringi stayed in the Army. He continued as a combat engineer within Company A of the First Infantry Division (called the “Big Red One”). Fringi served in North Africa, and then in Sicily, where he was killed in action on July 21, 1943.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars post in Granville was partly named in Fringi’s honor upon its founding in 1943, as Falvey-Fringi Post No. 1653. After the war was over, he was returned to Granville. His funeral occurred Aug. 21, 1948, and he was buried at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cemetery on the Middle Granville Road.

“Sully’s Squad” was published in late 2019; it is available locally at Hicks Orchard and the Slate Valley Museum, along with a copy at the Pember Library. The book is historical fiction, narrated through the experiences of Arty, a 15-year-old boy from Saratoga Springs. He enlisted as a young man and is assigned to a squad of fictional infantry soldiers who landed and battled through the island of Sicily (Operation Husky). The book includes a fictionalized version of a Sergeant “Sully” with a different surname. Granville also gets name-checked at some point in the book.

During the presentation held at the Pember, Wilson spoke of his background, how he learned of his family history, and how he decided to write a book. Wilson had several goals by writing the “Sully’s Squad” novel. He wanted to make a tribute to his late uncle Salvatore Fringi, and all who gave the ultimate sacrifice in war. Concerned about the disrespect for the American flag in recent years, he wanted to remind all of us to remember those who fought to uphold our freedoms, symbolized by the flag. Wilson wanted to contribute to the book genre of young adult historical fiction, in a way that is especially suited for use in schools, considering the importance of history in education.

Wilson also had some ideas he worked to convey through the book. One is that the harsh reality of war serves as a grim reminder that despite the many video games loosely about wars that have been released in recent years, war is not a video game. Another is to not forget the sacrifices of the families behind every soldier. Furthermore, he encourages those to learn from their relatives who have served. There are other ideas in the book; Wilson leaves it to the reader to discern them through reading.

The event was attended by some interested area residents. Refreshments were provided and copies of the book were available for purchase. There was also an opportunity to have the book autographed by Wilson. All who attended enjoyed the presentation. Wilson made a return appearance to Granville on Nov. 18 to speak to the ninth graders at Granville High School, who are reading “Sully’s Squad” in their English classes.

By writing “Sully’s Squad,” Wilson has bridged the gap that tends to exist between the young generation and historical events. Through the presentations, Wilson has driven home his aims for the book, as well as his deep-rooted connection to Granville, a heritage of which he is very proud. Many thanks to Kevin Wilson for being available to visit Granville and enlighten community members and students alike on the background and origin of his book “Sully’s Squad”.

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Today, Nov. 24, is the annual celebration of Thanksgiving. Many in the area will travel near or far as family members convene to spend the holiday together, and feast on meals headed by dishes of turkey or ham with many side dishes to delight appetites.

Thanksgiving has another purpose, of giving thanks and being thankful for the good things going on and good people in people’s lives. And while one should be thankful for family get-togethers and the food at said events, there is also more to be thankful for.

Here in the Granville area, we’re thankful for those who have chosen the area for their home, whether as a place to raise a family, relocate an already established family, to retire to, or as a summer home; and for those who continue to stay in the area.

We’re thankful for those who have opened or purchased businesses in the Granville area, who diligently work hard to serve their clientele and keep up their standards, whether it’s food, products, or services; and those who support these local businesses whenever possible.

We’re thankful for those who support efforts at the Granville schools, such as parents in the PTO or athletic booster groups, students in sports or organizations, and support from community members; for those who support our athletes at their games regardless of whether they win or lose the game, with messages of encouragement for the losses and messages of congratulations and excitement for the wins.

We’re thankful for the calendar events that happen in the Granville area through the year, from the town wide yard sale in May to the Lighted Tractor Parade in December, and all in between and beyond; and for the organizers who put in the hard work and effort in arranging these events and making them happen.

Most importantly, we’re thankful for the community spirit of the people of the Granville area, the hard work of local clubs and organizations and the people who are members of those groups, those who volunteer in local efforts, the pitching in of community members to help others, and the support of positive efforts done to better the Granville area.

Granville Then & Now – November 17, 2022

Granville commemorates Veterans Day

By Erik Pekar

Granville’s Veterans Day parade and ceremony were held on Friday, Nov. 11. The parade participants started to assemble at Gemini Fitness around 9:30 a.m. and the parade started at 10:03 a.m. A Granville police car cleared the way ahead and another led the parade.

They were followed by the Legion Riders, members of the Legion, the Legion Auxiliary, the VFW army truck, another army truck, John “Hector” Norton riding in a truck driven by Stephen Norton, the Granville High School Band, Cub Scouts Pack 44, a group of Girl Scouts, an ambulance from the Granville Rescue Squad, and a firetruck from the Granville Engine and Hose Company.

The Main Street intersection was cleared for regular traffic by 10:07. Meanwhile, the parade stopped at the Main Street bridge for the traditional brief ceremony there and then proceeded down West Main Street to Veterans Memorial Park, concluding the parade at about 10:20 a.m.

The ceremony at the park began as emcee Frank Riegert introduced the event. The traditional memorials followed, including the 21-gun salute and the playing of “Taps” and the National Anthem. The speakers were then introduced. Mayor Paul Labas was first, asking people to read the monuments. He noted that the veterans defended our freedom, and some gave the ultimate sacrifice. He also noted the local connection and that the veterans named on the monuments were Granville community members, just like those attending the ceremony.

Supervisor Matt Hicks gave his reflections on Veterans Day, bookending his speech with quotes. He noted the sacrifices that veterans have made to preserve American freedom and liberty and asked those present to think of the ideas and beliefs that the veterans stood for in defending our country. Hicks suggested to think of veterans’ sacrifices as an inspiration to be better: a better person, a better community member.

The last speaker was Sam Hall, who began by saying that he enjoyed speaking in Granville because Granville is a community that supports its veterans and loves America. Hall said that Veterans Day is a day to honor the millions of veterans, men and women, who have served, as well as those who have passed before. Hall also emphasized the sacrifices veterans have made.

After the speeches, Riegert thanked everyone for coming. The Granville High School Band played one more selection. By that time it was about 10:40; Granville’s Veterans Day ceremonies were over, and the attending crowd dispersed.

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There have been quite a few good deeds going on around Granville recently. The folks from Mandy Springs Nursery went around Granville one day in October, giving two bouquets of flowers each to quite a few people, one for them and one to give; all were thankful for the surprise gift. The Granville Center had unforeseen problems arise in their kitchen one day in October; the residents would have gone hungry had it not been for the Granville Family Diner cooking more than 100 breakfasts and taking them over. The United Church has been making hot dinners for local senior citizens.

Locals are getting ready to gather together hats and gloves, whether by purchase or by making the articles themselves, for the two annual collections of winter wear, by the Slate Valley Museum and the village tree lighting committee. Thanks to all in Granville who are doing what they can, with what resources and time they have, to help make Granville a better place.

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Granville’s varsity field hockey team had a good season this year, making it to sectionals for the second year in a row, winning the first game, followed by a loss concluding the sectional campaign. They ended the season with an 11-7 record. It may not have been the way they wanted to finish but they played hard and put in their best effort. Congratulations to the team on their teamwork and making it to sectionals.

Granville’s modified field hockey team had two interesting distinctions this year. One was that they finished the season undefeated. The other was that this was the first season with new coach Payton Barlow. The players have received her well and evidently are playing well. There may be great things ahead in Granville field hockey for Coach Barlow and her team players. Congratulations to all on the successful season.

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A public space in Poultney, Vermont opened for its first season this year. The Slate Quarry Park, located on the north side of Main Street in downtown Poultney, was completed and opened to the public this summer.

The development of the park, from idea to opening, took several years. The Slate Quarry Park Group was formed in 2016 to fund, design, and construct the park. The fundraiser was successful, with donations coming from more than 150 individuals, including many Poultney organizations. A major grant was received with the Town of Poultney from the Land Water and Conservation Fund.

The land was acquired next; the initial deposit of $10,000 was paid by Shawn Camara of Camara Slate, Richard Rupe of Rupe Slate, and Steve and Joe Taran of Taran Brothers Slate. These companies provided most of the slate used in the park, as well as other contributions.

The design and artistic efforts were led by Kerry Furlani, Poultney stone sculptor. Furlani made the original design with the assistance of Alan Benoit of Sustainable Designs. She later refined the design with Brian Post of Standing Stone Landscape Architecture. The design was later slightly adjusted to fit the budget.

Groundbreaking was held in May 2021. Construction took place over 14 months, ending in July. Matthew Schinski of Schinski Landscaping was the prime contractor. Dave Fielder constructed the standing stacked slate walls.

The park was dedicated and opened July 29. Speakers included Larry Sullivan, co-executive director of the Slate Quarry Park Group; Paul Donaldson, Poultney town and village manager; and Patricia McCoy, representative of Rutland County District 1, Vermont House of Representatives.

The Slate Quarry Park honors the slate industry, which provided growth for the region in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The entrance has a stone with the park’s name, carved by Kerry Furlani. Thirteen different colors of slate are used in the flooring, all produced in the Slate Valley. The park’s amphitheater has a spiral nautilus floor design. Three slate monoliths stand in the back. Each has a plaque with information; slate geology, history of the slate industry in Vermont, and a poem by Wendell Berry. The plaques were provided by Beverly Tatko and were made by Sheldon Slate of Granville.

Challenges were presented in the cutting of the 4 by 8 by 2 inch slate bricks, the bricks forming the nautilus, and the curved slate for the seating walls in the amphitheater and middle circle, especially the curved slate which had rarely been produced. These issues were solved and are now unique forms of cut slate.

Poultney has gained a new community space in the Slate Quarry Park, which will be utilized for community events. The park is now closed for the winter; it will be open every year from April 1 to Oct. 31. Many people were involved with the project; all who helped are to be commended for their efforts. 

Granville Then & Now – November 10, 2022

Trucks were new in 1958, too

By Erik Pekar

The introduction of the new 1958 vehicles in the autumn of 1957, detailed last week in “Granville Then and Now,” was not limited to passenger cars, such as sedans and station wagons. The public was also introduced to the new 1958 trucks at that time; all four dealerships operating in Granville in 1957 also sold trucks.

Ford introduced its 1958 trucks with the line, “Step in... New Ford Trucks for ’58.” The ad, which appeared in the Nov. 7 Sentinel, referred to its trucks as having “all that’s new,” with “advantages that help you do your job better and at lower cost.” These new items included capacity, an “easy ride” said to be “mighty close to that of a car,” comfort, power, and safety, with the Ranchero offering “fine car” convenience. It was overall termed “America’s most modern truck, built modern to cost you less.” Trumble Ford sold these trucks, as they did the cars.

“Just Arrived! All-new ’58 Dodge Power Giants” was the greeting for the 1958 Dodge trucks. The ad, which was in the Nov. 7 issue, touted the trucks as being the “4-way leaders of the low-priced 3.” The points of this leadership were: first in styling, first in power, first in payload and first in economy. The new styling included the new chrome and trim, and the double headlights. The new power included the engine, the “Super-Torque ‘58 Power Giant V-8.” The payload was the extra strong construction, allowing for more to be hauled per load. The economy was in the new combustion system, which was said to “[put] extra miles into every gallon, [ending] power-stealing carbon deposits, [and slashing] maintenance costs.” Mettowee Garage sold the Dodge trucks.

Chevrolet, for 1958, called its trucks “Task-Force.” The trucks were described in the ad, which appeared in the Oct. 24 issue of the Sentinel, as having “new broad-shouldered styling, a revolutionary new V8 engine, new Step-Van delivery models complete with bodies and a wider choice of medium-duty haulers.” That year their trucks were divided into three groups, light duty, medium duty, and heavy duty. The intention of the trucks was made clear: “They’re here to speed up schedules and whittle down operating costs with new fast-working efficiency.” Beecher and Guthrie sold the Chevrolet trucks.

GMC, the other General Motors division making trucks, called their 1958 lines the “GMC Money-Makers.” Their ad, in the Nov. 21 issue, noted several of its new features. Power and ability were emphasized, such as the 200-horsepower engine, or the “fast ratio cruising axle.” Comfort was mentioned as well; it noted that its “foam rubber seats cradle you in a roomy cab” and that “boulevard styling carries out the feeling of luxury.” The spring hangers were claimed to have the “highest deflection rate of all light duties.” An element of consistency was mentioned as well, such as using the same instrument panel in all their trucks. Ross Pontiac, while usually referred to as such in advertisements, was also the local GMC dealer.

The 1958 trucks sold well around the Granville area, but not like the cars in that time. The trucks were put to use by businesses, farmers, and others who needed the power, capacity and durability of a pickup truck. Today, the situation with pickup trucks is quite different. They are now rather common to see around, whether in driveways, parking lots, or on the highway. The typical modern-day pickup is larger than the typical sized pickup of 1958. Trucks are also now the most popular vehicle platform, being both the basis for pickups and SUVs.

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Halloween and all its events occurred Oct. 31, and was busiest in Granville within the hours of 5 to 8 p.m. There were quite a few trick-or-treaters going around the village of Granville, mostly in the neighborhood of Quaker Street and the connecting streets. There were only a few groups that passed up through Main Street. Several businesses offered up candy, including the Granville Family Diner, Scarlotta’s Car Hop, and McDonald’s. Scarlotta’s also offered some Halloween games and decorations, as well as a DJ playing Halloween songs with a mini light show. None of the Main Street businesses gave out candy, as none were open Monday night. Some local fire companies also had candy for trick or treaters, including the Granville Engine and Hose Company in the village, and the Penrhyn Hose Company of Middle Granville. Members of the Granville Baptist Church also handed out candy to more than 160 children. By 8 p.m. the number of groups had dwindled significantly, and by 8:30 p.m., the streets were back to their usual Monday night appearance. Halloween night in Granville this year was a clean and quiet affair, with no troublemaking; hopefully the night continues to be this way in the years ahead.

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The renovations at the Pember House are moving along well. The renovation efforts were started in February of 2021, when the house was bought by George Ignatiadis, owner of the Station House Bed and Breakfast. Renovation work progressed quickly through 2021 and well into the spring of 2022. The pace changed this summer as a new group took over the work, but they are still progressing. The porch now has balustrade railing. A new sidewalk was poured in October, with a row of small squares of slate running along each edge. This is to match the similar style in the sidewalk along West Main Street. The house will likely be completed next year; at that point it will be a private residence. The people of Granville are thankful for the great renovation work that Ignatiadis has done so far with the Pember House, and all look forward to seeing the project finished, and having this house lived in and loved once more.

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Thanksgiving is only a couple weeks away, and Christmas is a month after that. The volunteers affiliated with the village Christmas decorating and tree-lighting committee are hard at work putting up seasonal decorations and maintaining the permanent light installations. They started back in mid-October, and their work will continue right up to the tree-lighting ceremony in December. The volunteers start early because if they had waited to start until now, the lights wouldn’t be ready until around Christmas or New Year’s, delaying the traditional tree-lighting ceremony past Christmas. Their work takes them around the village, including Veterans Memorial Park, Main Street, and the four bridges over the Mettowee River.

The decorations will be switched on, depending on the location, starting in late November. At the tree-lighting ceremony in early December, all remaining Christmas decorations will be switched on. The results of the hard work of the volunteers do not go unnoticed. Granville is revered in the vicinity for its Christmas light displays, and many look forward to seeing the decorations all lit up for the Christmas holiday season. The people of the Granville area are thankful for the untiring efforts of all those who help put together Granville’s Christmas decorations.

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This Friday is Veterans Day, the annual time when Americans from towns small and cities large honor those who have served our country during war, conflict or peacetime. Granville has honored its own veterans every year, with solemn commemorations and parades. Last year, Granville started honoring those who have or are serving in the military in a new way, the Slate Valley Military Honor Banners, joining a growing list of many American locales with such banners hanging from poles along the streets in their population centers. Over the years, Granville area residents have volunteered or answered the call to serve the American military. Granville does not forget. This Veterans Day, remember to thank a veteran.

Granville Then & Now – November 3, 2022

Introducing the new cars of '58

By Erik Pekar

Last year in “Granville Then and Now” we wrote of the introductions of the 1957 model year automobiles during the autumn of 1956. A year has passed since then, and now we step forward to the autumn of 1957 and chronicle the local introductions of the new automobiles of the 1958 model year.

Dodge was among the first makes to be introduced locally for 1958. Its first ad appeared in the Oct. 31, 1957 issue of the Sentinel, and may have been the date of unveiling here in Granville. The ad noted: “Introducing new Swept-Wing 58: So advanced it leaves the rest behind. On display for the first time today is a car that stands apart in any company. It is very low, very daring, beautifully proportioned, its unusual sureness of handling and control reflects the latest engineering advances. To own it is a new adventure.”

The Mettowee Garage was the local Dodge dealer in Granville. Its building was located at 3 North Street, at the site of the former bank building, which will become the Land Craft Wellness dispensary. The dealership sold both Dodge and Plymouth in the 1957 model year and extensively advertised in late 1956 of Dodge, as well as Plymouth, the car that made it feel like “suddenly, it’s 1960.”

In 1957 the Mettowee Garage took no ads for the 1958 Plymouth, which was touted that year as “the star of the Forward Look.” It is evident that the Mettowee Garage became exclusively a Dodge dealership for 1958; it is unknown whether the decision was made by dealer owner Howard Munton, or by the Chrysler Corporation.

The new Chevrolet also was introduced around that time. In the same issue, two ads appeared. The first said, “Today, see it, drive it, buy it! ‘58 Chevrolet, so long, so low, so supremely smart!” The ads touted its redesign into the “lowest, longest, widest, biggest Chevrolet ever built,” including new colors, “Sculpturamic styling,” new interiors, power, chassis, and body. The other ad noted its power: “Meet the ‘58 Chevrolet, panther-quick, silk smooth, with a V8 unlike any other,” and mentioned the “Turbo-Thrust” engine and the “Turboglide” transmission. It noted its new features, including “4-headlight system, new 6 and V8 power, foot operated parking brake”, as well as the new models, the Bel Air Impala sport coupe and convertible.

Beecher and Guthrie was the Chevrolet dealer for Granville. The building was located on Church Street. It was later the location of Washington County Department of Social Services and was most recently occupied by Whitney’s Hunting Supply; the store space is presently vacant.

The 1958 Pontiac was unveiled by its dealers on Nov. 9, with the promotion appearing in the Nov. 7 issue of the Sentinel. The redesign of the Pontiac was implied to be such a change that “a new kind of car is born” and hailed the changes as the “boldest advance in 50 years.” It was referred to as the “Golden Jubilee Pontiac,” the 50-year anniversary being that of the General Motors Corporation. The new Pontiac was said to be “a car unlike any you have ever known” with “engineering advances so daringly different yet so basically sound that they will trigger the next big change in automobile design.”

The advertised improvements included: stability, from “Aero-Frame,” “roadability” or smoothness of the ride, by “Quadra-Poise;” the “Ever-Level Air Ride;” safety, through new body construction giving “circles of steel;” performance, from the new engines, including the Tempest 395.

Ross Pontiac was Granville’s Pontiac dealer. In 1957 it was at 19 Church Street, across and down the street from Beecher and Guthrie. Its site roughly occupied what is now the southernmost portion of the Main Street free parking lot, the relocated Burtis Alley, the garage for the 21 Church Street residence, and back partially to the present site of Winn Manufacturing. The dealership later relocated to 3 East Main Street; that building is now Gemini Fitness.

The new 1958 Ford was also advertised in the Nov. 7 issue. The car’s apparent tested appeal was touted: “Proved and approved around the world and now it’s here for you…” (Other ads in other publications went further, claiming it and other Ford company makes had “more new ideas, more you ideas”.) The “newest car in the world” had several changes and improvements, including “deep-sculptured styling;” “Interceptor V-8 power” which also came with the option of “precision fuel induction;” “Cruise-O-Matic drive,” a three-speed automatic transmission with a new “D1” position; “Ford-Aire Suspension” that made driving feel like “(riding) on a cloud instead of a spring” and “Magic-Circle Steering,” which made it possible to “steer with a feather touch” (likely an early power steering system). The ad concluded with the appeal, “Come in today, action test America’s only world-proved car!”

Trumble Ford was the Ford dealer for the Granville area. Their building was located at 14 East Main Street. This was their final new model year introduction, as the property was sold in early 1958 to the Grand Union company, which opened a supermarket on the site in 1959. The building had some vacant years after Grand Union left, and it was later occupied by Ross Pontiac, Manchester Newspapers, and is now the municipal offices of the Town of Granville.

Granville in 1957 had four car dealerships, all in the village. The local dealerships were well frequented in their time. “Auto groups” were nonexistent in 1957, as were the “corporate look” buildings, both so prevalent today. City dealerships presented some competition, but most were satisfied with the local sellers. If they weren’t, at that time one could just go to another village’s dealerships instead of traveling to Glens Falls, Rutland, Saratoga Springs or further. Today, there are no car dealerships within the village of Granville, the last having closed more than 30 years ago.

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In the past several weeks, the Granville village DPW replaced a few sections of dilapidated sidewalks with all new concrete sidewalks. The village board approved the sidewalk replacement work at the monthly board meeting of Sept. 12. The work started the week of Sept. 23. For the first time in the village of Granville, the newly installed sidewalks are now continuous at driveways, with the sidewalk lowering to be level with the driveways; prior sidewalk work had gaps at driveways.

Several sections on Quaker Street were replaced; these were from Morrison Avenue to Potter Avenue, from West View Drive up to the south parking lot entrance for the Village Plaza strip mall (formerly anchored by Grand Union), and along the street front of the strip mall parking lot itself. As part of the project, the sidewalk on Irvine Place was also replaced, from Williams Street to the bus driveway at the Granville Elementary School. Of note is that there had not been a sidewalk on Quaker Street along the strip mall property since before the mall was built.

The sidewalk replacement work is a step in the right direction for the village; it has been needed for a very long time. Other communities kept up with sidewalk replacement; until this year, Granville had done little, as far back as 20 years. While there is some commendation deserved for the village board’s approval of the initiation of sidewalk work this year, there is still a long road ahead. It is hoped by many in Granville that sidewalk improvements in the village will continue in the years ahead.

The Granville village DPW has done a wonderful job with the newly installed sidewalks, which have a clean look, and include modern features like the bumped surface on ramps. The DPW workers deserve commendation for their work with the new sidewalks; it is greatly appreciated by all.

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The twice annual change occurs this weekend. Daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 6. Remember to “fall back” and set your clocks back an hour, and perhaps enjoy the extra hour of sleep.

Granville Then & Now – October 27, 2022

After 50 years, Campbell retires from real estate

By Erik Pekar

It is the end of an era in the real estate business of the Granville area. Michael Craig Campbell has retired from his career in real estate after nearly 50 years in the business.

Campbell graduated from Granville High School in 1970. He attended Albany Business College for two years before deciding to enter the real estate business.

“I began my career in 1972 as a full time NY state licensed real estate salesperson,” said Campbell. “Once I obtained my salespersons license, I began working with my brother, Daniel Campbell III. He had just opened DC Realty in the basement of his home on Broadview Terrace in the Village of Granville. I felt it was a good fit for me to be involved in a self-employment endeavor, being that my father Dr. Daniel Campbell II operated a successful dental practice on East Main Street for many years.”

Campbell worked to get his New York broker’s license, receiving it in the 1980s. He opened Michael Craig Campbell Realty in 1986. “(This enabled) me to open Michael Craig Campbell Realty in the basement of my home at Fox Road in Granville”, said Campbell.

Before year’s end, he purchased the house at 52 Quaker Street in the village and converted it into the office, along with an apartment. Campbell chose Quaker Street because it is part of Route 149, the same one that reaches Exit 20 on the Northway. With that in mind, he considered it “an obvious choice” to be on Quaker Street. “I would direct customers coming from the Northway (Interstate 87) to take exit 20 and stay on Route 149 (all the way) to my office doorstep,” said Campbell. “This worked great for people coming from Connecticut, New Jersey, downstate New York and New York City.”

His wife Sandy received a New York salesperson license in 1987 and became the office secretary in 1988.

Campbell expanded in the 2000s. “After numerous requests from property owners in nearby Vermont asking me to list their property, I decided to take my Vermont state real estate brokers license exam and obtained my (Vermont) broker’s license in 2003,” said Campbell.

There were many others who worked with Campbell over the years. Campbell’s daughters joined him in the business. Each acquired their salesperson license. Julie Appler did so in 2004, later getting an associate broker license in 2012. Crystal Bassett joined in 2006.

In the 2010s, the office at 52 Quaker Street was becoming outmoded. Campbell bought 104 Quaker Street and renovated it and moved the office over to the new location.

In the years of owning his own real estate business, Campbell expanded into other parts of real estate. He became a general contractor, associated with building homes; a land developer, having a part in subdivision and development of hundreds of acres of land; and some property “flips,” purchasing several homes, making major renovations and placing the newly renovated homes for sale; and a landlord, owning rental properties.

The year of retirement was 2021. “After several months of debate between my wife, and children, Sandra and I decided to retire after nearly five decades. The time was right!” said Campbell. The real estate market from the pandemic and low interest rates, resulted in his properties going fast; by the time the decision was made that August, he only had two listings, both in New York.

The office at 104 Quaker Street was then listed for sale. “I placed my office on the Global Multiple Listing Service. Within hours, I received requests from cooperating real estate professionals requesting appointments to show the office. It went under contract within 24 hours awaiting the closing process,” said Campbell.

With the office now in the “under contract” stage, Campbell ceased to take requests for further property listings. “Our main focus now was to close numerous sale-pending properties, and to sell seven rooms of office equipment, and a two-car garage full of personal property,” said Campbell. Over the next several months, the properties slowly passed through the closing process. Campbell also held several yard sales at 104 Quaker Street to sell items and office equipment from the property. The last stage of this process came in November 2021, when the closing process was completed for the 104 Quaker Street building; it is now a residence.

Campbell’s Vermont Brokers license expired in March 2022, followed by his New York Brokers license in May 2022. The license expirations are but a formal reminder that Campbell has indeed retired from his nearly 50-year real estate career. Julie Appler has also retired from the real estate business and is now seeking other employment endeavors, while Crystal Bassett continues her real estate career, now associated with Coldwell Banker Prime Properties. Among the last of the properties in the area, on both sides of the state line, to display the red, white and yellow sign for Michael Craig Campbell Realty was the office at 104 Quaker Street.

Campbell reflected on his lifetime career. “No doubt it was an emotional time for me to realize what I’d done my entire adult life was coming to an end. Over the years I met customers and clients from near and far; several from across the globe. I represented both buyers and sellers. Experience allowed me to comfortably advise them through the process of land development, real estate investments, selling their property, commercial endeavors, and of course buying their dream homes,” recalled Campbell. “Many of my clients and customers returned to my office over the years to sell, as well as purchase additional properties, some as many as five times. I sold properties to grandparents, their children, and their grandchildren.”

Campbell estimated he sold somewhere between 1,500 to 2,000 properties over nearly five decades.

Campbell is thankful for the support given to his business through the years. “I owe a great deal of gratitude and thanks to the Granville community, and my family as well. Without them, none of this would have been possible,” said Campbell. “It’s hard for me to believe a half century has passed. I feel blessed to have been given such a great opportunity. I met countless people who have since become great friends.”

Craig and Sandy Campbell continue to reside in Granville, where they were both born. They have four children and seven grandchildren. Campbell noted, “Since our retirement we have enjoyed watching our grandchildren play sports, family gatherings, boating, taking long walks, and drinking coffee in the morning at home.” Campbell joked, “We didn’t get much time to drink coffee at home.”

Craig is looking forward to spending as much time as possible with his wife, and spending quality time with his children, grandchildren, family and friends.

Congratulations to Craig and Sandy on their retirement. May they both enjoy the years ahead.

Granville Then & Now – October 20, 2022

Work has begun at Amazon site

By Erik Pekar

Just outside the village of Granville, there are signs of activity at the former Manchester Wood factory at 1159 County Route 24. Barriers have been placed in the driveways, and work is happening in and near the building. Soon, the building will be renovated into a package distribution center for Amazon, an online retailer.

The plans for the facility were submitted to the town planning board in late June. Although there was no official mention of the firm that would occupy the building, or announcement from any firm, rumors soon spread that it could be Amazon. The plans were first publicly shown and examined by the planning board at their meeting of July 26. A large crowd was in attendance, partly aided by the Amazon rumors, and by a front-page article on the submission in the July 7 issue of the Sentinel.

The plans were described by a representative of the Kimley-Horn architectural firm, which was contracted by the company seeking to use the building. The existing building will be renovated, and old additions and adjoining structures removed. The present two driveways, with access to loading docks and parking for employees, will be completely overhauled. In their place would be four access points. Starting at the north, the truck driver delivery entrance will be first, followed by the entrance to the new employee parking lot, then an entrance and exit for local delivery vehicles.

The truck drivers’ routes will take them through Middle Granville, instead of North Street and through the village. The delivery vehicles will be scheduled to leave midday and be back by night. There was some concern about an increase in traffic, but the Kimley-Horn rep noted that a traffic study had been done that found there would be no substantial changes to traffic patterns.

Regarding the identity, the representative said that they did not know, but that one party would own the building and would lease it to another party. No approval was made at the July meeting, as more information was needed, and Washington County code approval was also needed for an application of this scale.

At the Aug. 23 planning board meeting, the public hearing was held for the application. Three Granville residents spoke, all in favor of the proposed facility. On advice of the planning board, the plans for the employee parking lot were changed to have more trees. No announcement was made regarding the identity of the leasing firm.

The Sept. 26 planning board meeting was when the firm’s identity was revealed to be Amazon. Glendowlyn Thames, of the Amazon economic development team, described the facility as a “last mile delivery station ... [the] last stop before packages arrive at the house.” The deliveries from the larger Amazon warehouses, called “fulfillment centers,” would occur between 6 and 11 a.m.; delivery to homes would peak between 4 and 6 p.m.

The facility is estimated to employ up to 200 employees, both part time and full time, including associates and managers. Employment of that scale would place Amazon in the top five employers in Granville. Some benefits were also touted at the meeting. The facility is estimated to be ready next summer. Construction for turning the former factory into the package distribution center is anticipated to begin this December.

To some, the choice of Granville may seem odd, and planning board member John “Hector” Norton wondered, “Why Granville?” Thames responded that Amazon is “customer-obsessed” and that “where our customers are, we want to be closer to them.” She also noted that the Amazon planners considered Granville a “unique rural community.” The planning board approved the application.

Community reaction to this development has been generally positive. Many locals have expressed congratulations and thanks, and happiness of forthcoming jobs in Granville. Area business owners have also been supportive, noting the new jobs and hoping that the workers will patronize and frequent local businesses.

Local officials have not given statements, with the exception of Paul Labas, Granville village mayor. In an announcement posted the night of the application approval, Labas said, “Congrats to the town planning board, town supervisor Matt Hicks, and to the village board and DPW for our local upgrades to water and sewer infrastructure that helped to bring this ball across the goal line.” Labas is particularly pleased and optimistic for the Amazon development. He closed his statement by saying, “thank you for your support, and congratulations to us all on this historic event for Granville.”

While most reaction to the Amazon facility has been positive, some have voiced concerns. One is whether or not Amazon will actually finish building the facility or abandon it before completion. Another is whether local roads and bridges, such as the Middle Granville bridge, will be negatively impacted by the increase in traffic resulting from the new facility. Others have concerns about the job quality, including wages and the work environment; some Amazon facilities have become infamous for bad working conditions that are not good for employees. In addition, the facility may have a negative impact on local businesses, as it would make it easier for Amazon to compete against merchants in the Granville area.

While congratulations are warranted to Granville on the official announcement and approval, as the saying goes, one should make sure their ducks are all in a row. Amazon has to renovate the property - building, parking lots, and all - to turn it into a package distribution center and hire and train the employees.

It is too early to tell what impact the opening of Amazon’s facility will have on the Granville area. In any case, it is certain that Amazon has interest in Granville, and activity has already started towards their efforts to build their Granville warehouse. We hope, as many locals do, that the arrival of Amazon next year will be a positive development which will do good for Granville.

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With autumn passing by, time is counting down before the window closes on good weather suitable for road work. Paving projects are still happening in the area. The repaving of Route 4 from Comstock to Whitehall is progressing well; the main layers have been paved. County Route 21 from East Whitehall south to the Hampton town line has recently been repaved. Several culverts were replaced last year on this stretch of highway. With the repaving this year, the road in this section is smooth and the bumps from the cut strips are gone.

After over a year, the Church Street bridge replacement project is close to completion. The street was reduced to one lane for milling on Oct. 11 and was closed for milling and paving from Oct. 12 to 14. The bridge reopened, fully paved, by noon on Oct. 14; the Water Street connection opened later that day. The bumps at the drains on the southbound lanes are gone, the new pavement being level with the drain grates.

The workers from the J. H. Maloy company then drove around the village and took down the detour signs that were installed back in June of last year. The Granville community is thankful that the new Church Street bridge is practically finished.

Granville Then & Now – October 13, 2022

Several "corner" names for local intersection

By Erik Pekar

The mention of McGuire’s Corners in the “Adopt a Highway” section of the “Granville Then and Now” column of Sept. 22 has resulted in several people inquiring of us where this intersection was located in the town of Granville.

This intersection was an important point in early Granville history but never a destination in itself. It was originally the north end of the roads from West Hebron and East Hebron. Another road continued north from here to Bishop’s Corners, the present Village of Granville, and other points north. The road from East Hebron was incorporated into the Northern Turnpike, which originated in Lansingburgh, near Troy; this increased the traffic coming through the corners. The intersection gained a fourth leg in the 1810s, when Isaac Bishop opened the “shunpike” road to today’s Main Street to bypass the toll booth at the north end of the turnpike.

By the 1860s, it was the location of the Potter brothers’ furniture store, a cabinet shop, and a schoolhouse. The school relocated in the 1870s to a former Quaker meeting house up the road, which was demolished several years ago.

The name of McGuire’s Corners does not appear to have entered use until the 20th century; it was the name of the family that once lived in the house on the southwest corner of the intersection. The earliest attested use in the Sentinel dates to September 1926; an advertisement for horses by “P. Myers” noted that a “carload of horses” would be arriving “at the Beebe Farm on the State Road at McGuire’s Corners.”

The roads eventually became state highways. Route 22 went through north-south on its way along the eastern state line from New York City to the Canadian border, and the east end of Route 149 was originally at the intersection; it was later extended through the Village of Granville to the Vermont state line, after Route 22 was relocated in the early 1960s to bypass the village.

The name of McGuire’s Corners began to fade from use after the 1930s. Michael Furlo opened a tavern at the southwest corner of the intersection in the mid-1930s, which was called the Four Corners Tavern. It soon became “Furlo’s (Four) Corners Tavern”, and by the 1950s it was common to refer to the intersection as “Furlo’s Corners.”

By the 1970s, the McGuire’s Corners name had faded in favor of “Furlo’s Corners.” Another new name would appear that decade. Moore’s Garage, located on the southeast corner across Route 22 from Furlo’s Tavern, incorporated in the mid-1970s as Moore’s Corners, Inc., which led to the corners gaining yet another alternate name.

Furlo’s Tavern closed in the late 1980s, while Moore’s Corners is still in business. The intersection of Routes 22 and 149 is today generally referred to either by the route numbers, or as “Moore’s Corners.” Some of the “longtimer” crowd of current or former Granville area residents still refer to the intersection as “Furlo’s Corners.” As for McGuire’s Corners, this name is rarely used today.

The intersection, just south of the Village of Granville, is still important, with traffic coming and going to Granville on Routes 22, 149 and lower Church Street. Called McGuire’s, Furlo’s or Moore’s, the corners are and will still be well known.

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The Granville Masons will return this month to holding a chicken barbecue dinner on the third Thursday of the month. There was no regular “third Thursday” dinner in September, as the Granville Masons participated in the Saturday fun day event of Granville Community Days. Dinners will be available on Oct. 21 at the Masonic Lodge on North Street, for $13 starting at 4 p.m., until gone.

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The days are getting shorter and cooler. The leaves of the trees are changing to greens, yellows, reds and browns, the palette of foliage colors. Locals and those passing through the area will be able to get a good look at the foliage in the vicinity. With fall this far along, seasonal activities like apple-picking, corn mazes and pumpkin contests are common.

Seasonal businesses are winding down before the winter, or starting up for those that do much of their business over the winter. Local gardening businesses will close in the coming weeks. Drive-in eateries have begun to do so as well. Jen’s Pit Stop closed on Sept. 25, after a season that initially posed a few hardships but proved to be successful for the Middle Granville eatery. Scarlotta’s Car Hop has switched to fall hours and is now open five days a week. Their seasonal closing, which will conclude the first season of the successful Scarlotta’s revival, is anticipated to occur at the end of the month.

While Halloween and Thanksgiving have not yet passed, some have already begun to look beyond those two days and toward the Christmas holiday season and its associated events. The village volunteers and the village DPW have already begun their work on the annual Christmas light decorations, including placing the decorative building outline lights on the Scarlotta’s Car Hop building, which for unknown reasons had been overlooked in 2020 and 2021. One local building has several wreaths hung along the walls. The registration has opened for the Granville Lighted Tractor Parade, which has been a popular event, and had quite the turnout last year. While such planning ahead is a good thing, hopefully people will also enjoy the fall pastimes, Halloween celebrations and Thanksgiving dinners before getting into the annual Christmas holiday spirit.

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This July, we remarked on the planned modular double-wide to be placed on Water Street by Kevin Daigle, and how it did not fit with Granville’s goals or interests in Mettowee River access and revitalization. The halves of the home arrived that week, and in the intervening months the double-wide was installed and is now being readied as a residence.

The Village of Granville has a Comprehensive Plan, which was finished and publicly released in 2003. One of the goals and aims expressed in the Plan was revitalizing the Mettowee River as a recreational destination for locals and tourists alike. The village of Granville’s approval of Daigle’s “mobile home” permit at the May 2022 meeting, without any public hearing or consideration of its potential impact, was an unfortunate and shocking blow to the cause of Mettowee River revitalization.

This land was a prime location in the village, which would have made a great access point to the Mettowee River, as well as providing space for a parking lot for the river, rail trail, and Slate Valley Museum. Due to the village board dropping the ball with prior boards’ goals of revitalizing the Mettowee River, the Water Street lot is now the site of a double-wide home, which is already being termed an eyesore by area residents. There was nothing wrong with Daigle wanting to bring a double-wide to install in the village, but there were other locations in the village far more suited to the task that were not riverfront properties.

The lack of interest shown in this situation by the village board of trustees regarding the Mettowee River is unfortunate. The only good thing about the double-wide building is that by its very nature as a double-wide, it can be disassembled and removed if the situation changed to necessitate its removal. Hopefully, there will be a time in the near future when the village board will care again about the Mettowee River and its revitalization, which would benefit the Granville area.

Note: This article was originally published with a different title, which sounded odd and was not of our choosing.