Liberty Street store to be torn down after 145 years

A Walgreens will be built on the location later this year, the mayor said.
By PEGGY SINKOVICH
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
HUBBARD -- For generations of Hubbard residents, Bessie Barnes Feed Store was a Liberty Street landmark. Today, after 145 years, it will be demolished.
Crews are scheduled to begin tearing down the building this morning. A Walgreens will be built in that location later this year, said Mayor Art Magee.
"It needed to be torn down," Magee said. "I have had calls for years about that building. It was an eyesore. Time had passed it by."
Fond memories
For many years the store was a bustling place, selling everything from farm equipment to baby chicks.
"I worked there when I was about 9 years old," Magee said. "I would get bags of feed for people. I would always know that spring was near because the baby chicks would arrive."
Paul Avdey Jr., who lives in Liberty, says he remembers going to the feed store as a child.
"I'm a little saddened," Avdey said. "I can still remember going there."
Magee said having the store demolished is part of his plan to revitalize the downtown area.
"We have some major plans going on right now, including getting new sidewalks and curbs," Magee said.
Other improvements
Earlier this week council approved first readings on requests to borrow money for several projects, including construction and repair of curbs and sidewalks.
The city also plans to borrow $1.6 million to build a new police station. The new safety center will be built on School Street, a block away from the current facility.
"We also have plans to improve the fire department," Magee said.
Council is currently seeking bids for the plumbing, electrical, heating and general construction work for the new safety center.
"The downtown area will look great when it's all completed," the mayor said.
sinkovich@vindy.com