Buck's Store (02-13)

Historical narrative

As with most small towns in America, Upper Marlboro's Main Street was home to a variety of small retail stores throughout the years: Marlboro Department Store, Marlboro Variety Store, Marlboro 5 & 10 (who could forget its soda fountain, with the best cherry Cokes anywhere?), Marlboro Jewelers, Men's & Boys' Wear Annex, and Western Auto. And, even earlier, there was Buck's Store, reportedly located next to Buck's gas station, across Main Street from the island created by its split with Pratt Street. This watercolor depicts the inside of Buck's in about 1915. Note that this was before self-service, when canned foods and other items were kept behind counters. Also note the variety of products, ranging from food to clothing to hardware.

Watercolor

© Stephen B. Hales — All Rights Reserved