I was so pleased to read Dr. Tom Ferraro’s article about Hildebrandt’s Luncheonette in your Nov. 9 issue. It brought me back to my childhood when I was a happy 5 year old, now living in “the country,” in a little village called Williston Park.
The best part was going to Cross Street School and having Hildebrandt’s Luncheonette right across the street. Those were the days when we walked home for lunch, and then scurried back quickly to buy one of those famous penny bags.
There was a window on the Cross Street side of the building, and every day you could see Henry H. or Henry S. at the window selling the penny bags. Nobody knew what was in them, but it was always a pleasant surprise.
Hildebrandt’s was the place to gather with friends and families after a special occasion such as a school function or especially a graduation. I am in my eighties now, and have moved from my home away from home. I still treasure my memories of those little white penny bags.
Marion (Caldwell) Tucker
Albertson
