Memories of Life in Downers Grove

Downtown Downers Grove

Good Buys

My mom worked at the Kroger's Store on the corner of Forest & Warren Avenues in the mid 1950's. My sister and I took turns on Saturdays meeting mom for lunch and being treated to a hot dog and coke at the Woolworth's soda fountain. That was a real treat!!!

One Christmas, I had exactly $1 to spend on the whole family (4 people). I remember walking up and down all of the aisles at Woolworth's and finding the most exquisite presents totaling $1. (I am so happy that Blue Waltz perfume could be bought for a quarter.)

Selig Sisters was an interesting store in downtown Downers Grove. It was run by the Selig Sisters – one was named Clara. They had all types of hats, gloves, hat pins, lingerie, fabrics, patterns, and sewing materials. The sisters were probably in their 80s at that time (or seemed that old to a 10 year old) when they operated the store. The building itself was torn down. Giordano's pizza is located on the site.

Mochel's Hardware is the place where I purchased the only two dolls I had in my childhood. One was a Sunbonnet Sue, and the other was a doll that could walk with some assistance. I always had to wait until I received my Christmas money, and then prayed that the dolls were still there after the holiday.

I had my first cherry coke at the Walgreen's soda fountain. I was in about 5th grade and that really was big stuff then. (I had a very dull childhood, you can tell.)

When my two daughters were younger, a big treat for them was some ice cream at the Main Street Pharmacy soda fountain.

Rita Regis (I've lived here all of my life, and that has been quite a few years!)