Some things literally just scream Delco.
Anyone else remember the Bazaar of All Nations?
I am always surprised at the intense reaction we get every time we publish a story or photo about the Granite Run Mall. Do yourself a favor. Don't drive by there today. It's depressing as hell. Who knew you could actually see Riddle Hospital from Route 352. That's because you are looking directly through what used to be the center court of the mall. Now it's been reduced to rubble, with the garish sight of the remaining stores huling on either side, a stark reminder of time gone by.
Today, Delco will lose one more icon.
We take great pride in these parts in our very own, home-grown convenience store. I don't care what some survey says. Sheetz will never be Wawa. The Delco business icon started on the family farm out in Chester Heights. When the family was looking for a place to sell some of their dairy products, they decided to open a store.
In April 1964, they opened what we now sentimentally refer to as Wawa Store No. 1, on MacDade Boulevard in the Folsom section of Ridley Township.
Today they will close the doors forever, when the store moves a few blocks away at the intersection with Route 420.
Wawa, as usual, is doing this right, with a parade to note the closure of old No. 1 to the new facility.
Of course, the new Wawa stores don't look much like the quaint, old original stores.
We now refer to these creatures as 'super' Wawas.
That might be, but I will always prefer the old style.
That was pretty super to me.
Farewell, No. 1.
You'll always be Delco proud.
Comments