THE WEST SIDE

As I've been busily researching new tales to tell on the Ghosts of Denton tour, my eyes are bleary from comparing old photographs to try to determine what businesses once occupied the blocks!  Today, I'm looking at the West side of the square.  The first picture was taken in 1880 (you can find them on the Portal to Texas History).  I think you can click on it to make it larger, but I won't know until I've published the post.

WEST SIDE OF SQUARE IN 1880

Visible businesses in this photo from the left to the right: C. M. Greenlee (which was a dry goods store), Drug Store, H. J. Howell: Jeweler, Health Office, Houston Stiff Saloon, The Chronicle's offices, W. H. Cleveland Groceries, Carpets, J. B. Schmitz Furniture, Opera House, Carter and Benners Grocers, Land Office; A. D. Beaty, Tin Shop, C. F. Sanders and Company's Saddles and Harness.

Can you see any changes that happened in just six years?  This second picture was taken at the funeral of Judge W.J. Austin, on Sept 8, 1888.

WEST SIDE OF SQUARE IN 1886

I'm comparing those pictures to the map of Denton (taken for fire and insurance purposes) from 1885.  Yes, I'm developing a permanent squint!

MAP OF WEST SIDE IN 1885

Now, I just have to take these pictures with me down to the square and do some comparison.  Are there ghostly tales on that west side?  Well, yes there are!  Come let me tell them to you.  The fun begins this Friday night, March 22nd at 8:00.  Tickets are available on-line (via PayPal) or at Jupiter House Coffee on the east side of the square.  I hope to see you there!