Page7 
In 1930 speed skater Charles Gorman opened his second service
station, the first being on Portland Street.
"The new station is most attractive, with its glazed brick walls and
elaborate lighting scheme. To make the station the lower floor of the building
was removed, and the top story is now carried on steel beams.. . It is fitted
up with all the latest machinery for speedy and accurate service. Four pumps of
the newest type... ensure short waits for gasoline. Grease pits are provided
for the greasing of cars."
Primrose gasoline promised "more miles and more smiles".
Note the dentist office over the gas station... !
 |
Charles I. Gorman was a famous world speed
skating champion. The city owned Charles I. Gorman Arena is on University
Avenue. |
|
|||||||||||||
One of the best known corners on Main Street. Ray Conway's Gas
Station was across from Dr. Roberts' home, where there is a police car parked
in front. Across the street was Welford's Drug Store in the old Women's
Christian Temperance Union Hall. Also located here was the Portland Public
Library and the Knights of Pythias Hall. Next is the original Bank of Nova
Scotia, followed by Saint Lukes manse (hidden from view) and Saint Lukes
Church.
Today the Bank of Nova Scotia is in the same location and Saint Lukes Church is
the building on the right. This was taken from a vacant lot which was once the
location of Ray Conway's gas station.
 |
 |
Main from Bridge Street. C.B. Pidgeon's boot and shoe store is
at the left. Pidgeon is best remembered for the success of his son Walter
Pidgeon, a Hollywood actor. The third building at the left later became Gault's
Groceteria. Alexander Paterson began his business across the street in 1875.
His store claimed
"Everything is marked at the lowest prices consistent with living
business, and the newest styles and fashions are always to be obtained here, of
the best quality".
Main Street was one of
the victims of Urban Renewal from the 1970's to the present. It put a lot of
people out of their homes and businesses; however, Urban Renewal brought North
Enders together to form a stronger community.
Take a DETOUR and see some of the pictures before, during, and after Urban
Renewal.
All pages © Heritage Resources and New
Brunswick Community College - Saint John.
