​Looking Back: Didn’t make the cut

     A few weeks ago, I began work on some articles that would explain the history behind the photographs in the 2023 Historical Society calendar. The criteria for selection of the photos is fairly simple; they should depict Grain Valley’s past - the businesses, the school, the churches, and the people. And, perhaps equally important, they must be of good photo quality. The photo below, while interesting, lacks several of these conditions.

Worthmore Shoe Store, circa 1920
(Photo credit: Grain Valley Historical Society)
 
     I can state for certain this was a business in Grain Valley. The photo was cropped from a larger picture that was labeled “Bank, Auto Shop, and Shoe Repair on the West side of Broadway.” It occupied the lot that is now 506 Main Street, The Historical Society. While the current building is built of bricks, Worthmore Shoe appears to be a wooden structure.
     I can also state for certain the photograph is of poor quality. So, while it did not make the calendar, I hope some of my readers will be interested to know that at one time in our history Grain Valley had a shoe store. I don’t know when. I don’t know who owned the store. And, I don’t know any of the men in front of the building.
     On another note, I do find it interesting that they are all men. Their wives must have been at home working and taking care of the family!