Our retrospective look back at the creation of the park continues as part of National Park Week. Joseph and Hedwiga Kohn’s home and store, shown here in the late 1930s, was once located at 164-166 Derby Street. During the creation of Salem Maritime, the building was demolished so that the Derby House could be visible from the street – and the West India Goods Store was ultimately moved to this location. In retrospect, it might have been saved--the Kohns were instrumental in establishing a local chapter of the Polish National Alliance and the Womens Polish American Citizens Club was founded in Hedwigas living room. Few documents remain that can offer insight into the history of the West India Goods Store (WIGS). Records indicate that in 1801, Captain Henry Prince, owner of the Derby House, purchased a lot adjacent to his property. Fourteen years later, he was paying taxes on his house “& store.” It is unclear, however, whether this was a warehouse or a retail store. Prince vacated the home in 1827, and from 1837 to1851 Salem directories listed a West India Goods Store on the property. (MZ, MF, CH)
Posted on: Thu, 24 Apr 2014 17:29:38 +0000
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