Now that the vibrant Autumn colors are fading to burnt orange and we awake many mornings to find frost on our lawns, thoughts are turning to the rapidly approaching holiday season. A few radio stations are already previewing holiday music, even though Thanksgiving is still two weeks away. But soon it will be here - crowded mall parking lots, irritated shoppers waiting in long lines, trips across town and back in search of bargains.
During the early and mid 20th century, downtown York was the retail capital of the county. Generations of Yorkers fondly recall downtown trips to The Bon-Ton, Bear's, Jack's, and Wiest's, as well as the dozens of smaller stores located near Continental Square. West Market Street was a hub of retail activity and stores went all out in decorating for the holidays. The Bon-Ton, J.C. Penney, and Sears may all be neighbors now in the York Galleria, but once upon a time they were all neighbors on the 100 block of West Market Street.
Over the next month, Windows Into York will feature many of the popular downtown stores that thrived in York prior to the construction of suburban shopping centers and malls.
The postcard image above captures the vibrant scene of York's retail district in its heyday. Did you used to shop downtown? Do you have any fond holiday memories of The Bon-Ton Santa or Bear's Cafeteria or trips to one of the five city markets to prepare for a holiday dinner? If so, post a comment or send an e-mail to sbutcher@yorklinks.net.
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