B is for (East) Bessemer Avenue

Out of the 234 Greensboro streets beginning with the letter "B", this week's featured street is East Bessemer Avenue. Prior to the 1957 annexation into Greensboro, Bessemer was actually a town east of Greensboro. Bessemer School was a 1st- 12th grade public school for the Bessemer community. (Read its fascinating history with great links here). Until the eastern section of Wendover Avenue was constructed in the 1960's, Bessemer Avenue was the main artery to and from the east side of town. The Summit/Bessemer Avenue intersection was just north of the homes of some of Greensboro's most prominent citizens.

Bessemer residents billed themselves as blue-collar and working-class families. Many were mill workers. These families formed a tight knit community that valued the education of their children, almost above all. Teachers were respected community members and school athletics did a lot for uniting the community. Graduates of Bessemer schools remain active today, meeting in person as well as on Facebook. In the WWII era, a great community memory was built when actor Charleton Heston spent part of his military career at the army's Overseas Replacement Depot (O.R.D.), located in the East Bessemer/Huffman Street/Winston Street area.

East Bessemer Avenue has 86 homes; West Bessemer has 65 homes. Today's photo, located at 932 E. Bessemer Avenue, is a curb market in the business section. It has been an E. Bessemer landmark since 1955. For our friends at ABC Wednesday, "B" is for Bessemer!

Comments

[Roger Green]

It's funny, but I see that building, I think Charlotte, NC. Maybe there's a common construction style for strip mall type buildings in your state.

On behalf of the ABC Wednesday team, welcome, and thanks for participating! - ROG

[Manang Kim]

Missed visiting this kind of store. Everything here is closed because of the weather except the huge grocery store. Great shot on this one thanks for sharing and the visit! Happy Wednesday!
ABC Wednesday

[Halcyon]

I like these old-style markets. Everything is so colorful and well-displayed.

[Cheryl]

I just love the neighborhood feel of this image. Great backstory about Bessemer's heritage.

Cheryl
ABC Team

[Wanda]

What a delightful scene. One could just step into it, pick up some fresh produce, hop on the bike and head for home.
Thanks for an imaginary trip to the store.

[Jane Mitchell]

And their fresh, home-grown tomatoes in the good ol' summertime are unbelievable!

[CousinLinda]

I have to agree with Wanda. The picture is so REAL!

[barb farr]

Great shot and interesting backstory.

[Jack Hart]

They make the best pimento cheese in the world, my Daddy LOVED it!

[Dianne Swayne]

My mom's sister and her family lived out in Bessemer when I was a young girl. We passed, and often stopped at this curb market many many times going to and from their house. I'm so pleased to see it's still in business, looks like I could just pick up an orange and start peeling! Beautiful photo, really brings back some good memories. Next time I'm in GSO I will make it a priority to go by there again.
From Texas,,,,
Dianne

[Lesley]

Hi Jan, sorry my computer is having hiccups, and I'm trying someone elses for the moment...
but yes, there is a signs meme. It is at (http://signs2.blogspot.com) I didn't know how to do a linky with Wordpress, so started an independent meme just for the signs. sorry for the confusion. the link is still open for you to participate.

[Lesley]

http://signs2.blogspot.com/
correct link.

[leif hagen]

A colorful, juicy photo with so much fresh fruit! Yummy snap!

[Lesley]

I'm back from my brief sojourn. Glad you found us and decided to join.
LOVE the small market stores