The building at 51-55 State Street in Springfield, around 1938-1939. Photo courtesy of the Springfield Preservation Trust.
The scene in 2014:
I don’t know much about the apartment building in the first photo, except that it was built sometime between 1882 and 1899, and was demolished by 1958, when the present 55 State Street building was built. It is directly across State Street from the Hampden County Hall of Justice, and it reflects the hideous architectural styles of the mid-20th century. Sadly, this building will not be among those demolished to make way for the casino, although the buildings in the distance to the left will be.
I lived in this apartment building from 1943-1952. I was born at Mercy Hospital and my parents took me home to their apartment on the third floor of 55 State St. I have vivid memories of my life there and if you are interested , I would be glad to tell you about them. Some are: shared bathrooms, ice box deliveries, no telephone, the arrival of a television set and many more.