Thursday, March 22, 2018

Our Past Is Present March 22, 2018


March 22, 2018
            This is “Our Past Is Present” from the Geary County Historical Society.
            Today’s story comes from an article in the Junction City Union newspaper in 1985.  The author wrote: “Memories of penny candy, fifteen cent soda and Saturday matinee shows come flooding back when one walks into the Peter Pan Food Store, owned and operated by John Leonard.  In his small store there were creaking wooden floors, a ceiling fan, an old fashioned cash register, a single check-out stand and freshly cut meat displayed behind glass.  Leonard has captured the spirit of the last of the small grocers – “mom and pop” stores.”
            At the end of May, 1985, Leonard will hang the “closed” sign on his door for the last time after more than 45 years in the meat cutting and grocery business. He stated: “I hate to close it up.  It’s been a good store.” Leonard was a strong believer in being available to customers, which was evident by the rapport he had with everyone who came into the store.  He stated: “You’ve got to be out where the people are.  They want to see the boss. Success in any business is 90 percent hard work.  If you’re not physically working at your job, you’re gonna go out of business.”        
            When Leonard came to Junction City in 1939, there were 39 grocery stores, many of which were on the 100 block of Seventh Street where Peter Pan was located.  Among others in business were Kientz IGA and A&P. 
            We are always interested in hearing your stories about former grocery stores and other businesses in Junction City.  Stop by the Museum at the corner of Sixth and Adams Street between 1 and 4 Tuesdays through Saturdays. 
            And… thanks for reading “Our Past is Present” from the Geary County Historical Society.


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