There was lots of inspiring talk about old Elkton during the middle third of the 20th century at the Historical Society of Cecil County this afternoon. Remembering those lively, youthful days was Evelyn V. (Vaggi) Scott, the 80-year-old daughter of George D and Mary G. Vaggi, who purchased the Howard Hotel, a long-established downtown business in 1923.
The place bustled with activity as waitresses served fine meals, the bartender dispensed drinks, and overnight guests booked comfortable rooms. This was long before Interstates and dual highways bypassed town centers and hotel chains sprouted up along those new roads. In that earlier age, traveling salesmen, families making their way up or down the east coast, and others passing this way came right down Main Street. There on this busy thoroughfare, Mrs. Scott grew up in the business, maturing, going off to college, and eventually marrying and moving to Michigan. Her parents decided to retire in 1973, when they sold the well-known establishment to the Ruth family.
It was a pleasant walk down memory lane, as Mrs. Scott recalled stories while looking at photographs of earlier times in Elkton. Thanks Mrs. Scott for sharing your narratives and for donating so many fine pictures and materials to the Society.
The Society taped part of the interview and will stream a portion of it later, along with samples of the donations. By-the-way, Mrs. Scott was back in Elkton as the property is now in the hands of new owners and they are creating an Irish Pub at this old landmark, which has anchored downtown for centuries.
So much rich history in our county. I’m glad so many people are keeping the history alive.
Thanks Bill. Beth Moore and I recorded conversations with her and we’ll put some of that up latter. She had lively, interesting stories about old Elkton.
I enjoy these Mike and thanks again for your support for last Wednesday’s meeting. Bill
Thanks Bill. YOu folks at the Archaeological Society of the Northern Chesapeake do great work, and you had a fascinating talk.
The first five years I lived in Elkton were spent on the fourth floor as my home. Not only did I live there, I would walk Mrs. Vaggi’s collie, Brandy. Actually, Brandy walked me…..I worked week-ends for her at night for about two years and I helped her with the bar serving customers. She was a very nice Lady! More than once did she treat me to fried soft-shell crabs and I drank coffee with her on a number occasions. I left the Howard and got married but I would stop in from time to time till she sold the place. She was truly one of Elkton’s Best. Rest In Peace George & Mary Vaggi.
Bill Thanks for sharing that. Mrs. Moore was delightful to talk to and she shared many great stories about old Elkton.