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HE HARDLY KNEW OLD HOME TOWN
[The Welland Tribune and Telegraph, 6 July 1922]
After Long Absence, Former Resident Almost Lost Himself
‘Twas Harry J. Gibson
Sold Main Street Property for One Twentieth of Present Cost
After an absence of fifteen years from his home town, Harry J. Gibson, now a resident for the windy city of Chicago, blew into Welland last Friday to greet the old chums of boyhood days.
Harry, in relating his arrival to an old comrade, said, “I have been to London, England, Paris, France, and in nearly all the principal cities of the United States, but it is unique to relate I became lost in the old town where I spent my boyhood days and where I supposed I knew every street and alley in the place.
But things had changed. He had to enquire where he was, and was told that he was on West Main Street, Welland. He recognized the home of D.D. Hoover, and then he knew where he was.
He met many of his old chums, but was sorry to learn that many had passed to the great Beyond, and others, like himself, had gone to other lands. He was much impressed with the change in his native town and pronounced it a beautiful little city-the beautiful park on the banks of the canal being one of the most notable changes-where Merritt Park now stands, being but a big frog pond (and where the bullfrog was master of all he surveyed), on his last visit here. Another very notable change were the paved streets, beautiful residences and well kept lawns; the beautiful and modern theatre for a city of its size and a fire hall and equipment such as Welland should be proud of, and the large number of industries-many new ones since his last visit-and the grand school buildings which certainly showed prosperity in the city.
Mr. Gibson related another story on the city’s property and his farsightedness. On his departure from Welland, he sold his property-now occupied by Lee Ott’s laundry on Main Street-for $1,300, and he understands the present proprietors refuse $20,000. Some turnover. His last words on bidding goodbye to his old friends were, “I can hardly realize that I am in my old boyhood town, where I spent my boyhood days.” Harry’s many friends were pleased to learn that he and his good wife have prospered since going west and are now enjoying the benefits reaped by thrift and industry. He likes his old home town and may return some day to reside with us again.”
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