From February 2004 to January 2006, Jeff Zeckel wrote and managed 98 full-page historical pages titled “Remember When…” that were published in the Noblesville Daily Times when Schurz Inc. started the newspaper.
The page was one of the most popular features in the weekly paper. The page won awards from the Hoosier State Press Association. The feature was set up as an interactive page where public was invited to share photographs and other items.
Through the historical collections of Brad Cook and Joe Roberts as well as other resources, each historical feature was researched to be accurate and factual. The page could not have happened without the assistance of Brad Cook.
Some of the most popular features were: The Rainbow Skating Rink, Lucky Teter, ABC Drive-In Theater, The Noblesville Carnegie Library, The Diana Theater, Forest Park Pool, Hoosier Dairy, Riverview Hospital, Firestone, 1946 Aerial Photo, and many more.
Thanks to Linda Shaw for her efforts working at the Noblesville Library Branch. She made sure every edition was saved. To read and discover Noblesville’s history, go over to the Indiana Room at the library and ask to see the “Remember When…” editions or features.
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On Friday, Dec. 5, Zeckel met with the new owners of Syd’s Fine Food and Spirits, 808 Logan St., Noblesville, to present them with framed copies of Parts 1 and 2 of his feature on the history of the building. The stories were originally published on April 5 and April 12, 2005.
The two framed “Remember When …?” pages published in April 2005. (Photo provided)
Upon the presentation, Zeckel said, “It is unbelievable the transformation under Brian’s ownership. The exposed bricks look amazing. My dad also wouldn’t believe it but would be very pleased. I hate to think how much nicotine was all over that wood paneling that covered the walls there for many years.”
Zeckel also stated, “I’m very pleased that Brian and Rhonda are embracing Syd’s long history. They are using the Howdy Bub slogan from the 40’s.”
Syd’s is celebrating 80 years, which is correct. In 1940, Helen and Ward Burroughs converted the first floor to a restaurant and bar. In 1945, Sid Gill and Walt Carey bought the business and started Syd’s.
Syd’s still has some of the exposed brick on an outside wall. (Photo provided)
Patrons still get a kick out of playing at the historic shuffleboard table. (Photo provided)