There’s a sad (realistic but wistful) op-ed column by Jayne Merkel and Julia Wertz in the August 26 New York Times about New York’s disappearing store fronts. The small business stores gave New York streets a diversity, visual interest and convenience for the people who lived in their neighborhoods. During HG/BSK’s New York life on the Upper West Side and in Greenwich Village, they patronized scores of tiny groceries, esoteric bookstores, clothing retailers, etc.. Shopping avenues were speckled with shoe repair shops, laundries (many Chinese owned and staffed), dry cleaners, tailors. Most of life’s needs were met by a short stroll. Even on fashionable Madison Avenue, there were unusual shops that defied the real estate monsters. HG/BSK recall buying tiny, pleated silk lampshades at a shop that specialized in such frippery. M.J. Knoud, the aristocratic saddlery and riding apparel store at 63rd and Madison, was a delight. HG bought a splendid riding raincoat there. (Didn’t own a horse then but it came in handy when HG was an active equestrian on HG/BSK’s Colorado horse ranch). Incidentally, New York now has only one major equestrian store. Historic Miller’s and Kaufman’s (both on E. 24th) are long gone as is the Claremont Riding Academy (in the West 70’s) and the Central Park equestrian trails. Madison Avenue is now lined with the flagship stores of American and foreign fashion companies. Prices are mind numbing. When HG strolled the Madison Avenue of yesteryear, HG often stopped at an incongruous, seemingly out of place, old fashioned diner. Served honest food. HG has a fond memory of the counterman scooping some freshly ground beef (Didn’t use any rubber or plastic gloves. Bare hands sufficed) and slapping it on the oiled griddle with a heap of sliced onions. Served on a toasted, buttered roll, it was the best burger in town.
Patty and I used to visit NYC in December every year or so. Haven’t been in quite a while. Can’t imagine going back and not being able to shop in FAO Schwarz.
I agree. FAO was a must for our children. A shop filled with fun and fantasy.