May 8, 2009
Dear MP,
On the idea of buildings that disappear, a Connecticut contractor who worked in Pawtucket and Central Falls during the 1950's and 1960's said some old structures did "vanish" during Urban Renewal: before the wrecking ball reached the scene.
As an example, the contractor said when buildings faced destruction, the demolition leaders would instruct local contractors to take allegedly useless wood and brick from the buildings. For instance, many buildings demolished for Route 95 on East Avenue became transplanted in Foster, Glocester and suburban Rhode Island.
The previous idea may be purely speculative, but Pidge Tavern possibly earned that fate.
As far as the History of the Pidge Tavern, I was four years old when the building disappeared. Where can I find out more about the tavern?
In closing, where did you get the 1963 aerial photo? I recently discovered through Mike Wilcox in the city Planning Department, aerial photos of the city from 1952 to 1962. In addition, do you have access to any ground photos of Route 95 construction from 1960 to 1964?
MP, your assistance would be appreciated.
Respectfully,
Jim Matuszek