I was cleaning out the closet in the laundry room the other day, you know the dreaded closet that is the catch-all for items you just want to put somewhere. Anyway, I looked to the top of the closet and there they were–neatly stacked boxes that held my fine china. Yes, my fine china was stored away in a closet in the laundry room; not neatly displayed in a china cabinet, because, you see, I don’t own a china cabinet.
This beautiful china has now belonged to me for a little over 26 years and I have used it a grand total of three times in all those years. I’m sure you’re asking yourself, “If you’ve only used it 3 times in 26 plus years why do you even have it?” That’s a very good question, and one I’ve asked myself over the years. Allow me to explain.
In the deep South when you become engaged to get married it’s very common for you to go and register for a China pattern. In my hometown of Brewton, the particular store where we all did that was called The Carriage House. It was in what we commonly call a strip mall now days, however back then it was known as the “Brewton Heights Shopping Center”. It housed many stores and I guess you could say it was a bit like an outdoor mall setup, because you could park and just walk from store to store. There was a West Brothers (a department store) a Dollar General, Elmore’s (a five and dime) and some more stores that weren’t of much significance to me.
Saturday was our day to visit the “Brewton Heights Shopping Center”. My granny didn’t drive, so my Momma was responsible for taking her “to town” as we called it. It was an all day affair because we would have to hit several grocery stores as well–Winn Dixie, IGA sometimes, and then we’d finish with the A & P because they had 8 o’clock coffee. The A & P was in the “Brewton Heights Shopping Center” and once I got a little older, I was allowed to walk to Elmore’s while my granny and momma finished up at the A & P. Along the way, I would pass the Carriage House. I remember I would always look in the windows and think they had the most beautiful china and other items. I never really had the opportunity to go inside, because we didn’t have a need since we really weren’t a fancy family; nor did we have fancy china. But as I got a little older and a bit more mature, I would stop in and look around. Sometimes I would buy a little something. They had beautiful stationary and pens. But I mostly just walked around and admired all the beautiful china and other collectibles they had. The store itself had a wonderful smell to it and the ladies that worked there were just so sweet and very willing to help.
Fast forward to 1988. I was engaged and I finally got to go to the Carriage House and pick out my china pattern! Now keep in mind, it’s not like running down to Target and creating a registry with a little scan gun they give you and then printing out the list. No, it was a bit different back in 1988 at the Carriage House. Someone was there with you every step of the way, noting every item you pick and of course they manually kept track of this. There were no computers. I just remember thinking, “are people really going to come to this store and buy me these pricey items? Why? Why would they do that?” You know, cause we’re common folk. After I picked numerous collectibles, it was time to pick the china pattern. I chose the Lenox Charleston pattern. I thought it was so beautiful. And it is! And I also chose the most beautiful goblets to go with the pattern. I was still in denial that someone was actually going to buy these beautiful dishes for me, but I was sure hoping they would! And to my amazement, not only were people gracious enough to buy it for me, I have enough place settings to have a dinner party if I were to take such a notion. And yes, it’s still packed in the Carriage House boxes. Makes a person somewhat nostalgic, I suppose.
After taking down some of the boxes and looking at my china again, I couldn’t help but think about the different stores in Brewton we would shop at. Robbins and McGowin was a department store downtown. For a small town such as Brewton, it was a big deal. I could be wrong, but I think it was the tallest store in town and it even had an elevator! The men’s and boys clothes were downstairs and the womens and girls clothes were upstairs. When we were growing up, my momma bought all of our clothes there. We were not wealthy, but Momma liked for us to have “good” clothes and shoes. Mrs. Francis Wall worked at Robbins and McGowin and Momma could call her and give her our sizes and she would fix up a box of clothes for me and a box for my brother. My daddy would then go and pick it up.
Now, I’m amazed thinking back on this for a few reasons. One, Daddy didn’t pay for the boxes of clothes when he picked them up. Second, everything she picked out for us was perfect. Third, you really could just pick up the phone, tell Mrs. Wall what you wanted, and she would get it ready for you. And then if you kept some of it or all of it, you could pay for it then or put it on a charge account. My daddy had an account there, but you know he paid that thing off ASAP! Here’s a really old picture of Robbins and McGowin Department Store. It still sits in my hometown, but I believe it now houses a Mexican restaurant, and has had several different businesses in it. But the memories will remain always.
Momma would always buy our shoes at The Fair Store. It was also downtown across the railroad tracks from Robbins and McGowin. My brother and I had very narrow feet and narrow heels, so we had to be fitted with shoes. Mrs. Bonnie Robinson worked at The Fair Store and she always waited on us because she knew my momma and granny (they had great customer service all around because all the clerks knew us and greeted us as soon as we came in). I loved getting new shoes and Mrs. Bonnie was the best. She knew exactly how to fit us and she was usually able to convince Momma to get the shoes I wanted. Plus, I always thought she had the most beautiful clothes and makeup. The Fair Store sold cloths too, but, like I said earlier, we bought our clothes at Robbins and McGowin; The Fair Store was for shoes.
But, truth be told, there were many stores in Brewton that offered the same kind of personal service. Like when my daddy would go to Farmers Exchange sometimes and Mr. Homer Douglas always made a point to come over and talk to him–nicest man ever. And then there was Henry Hill Jewelers. I didn’t, nor did my momma or daddy, have much need to visit them, but when you did they knew who you were and gave you the most excellent service. It also helped that my daddy’s cousin, Sarah, worked there. Weavers was right downtown and they had the cutest clothes. I shopped there a lot more when I was able to make my own money. It is still located in Downtown Brewton. And who could forget Moorman and Mason Drug Stores? You could go in those stores and sit right at a bar and have a milkshake or a coke from a real soda fountain, and the best grilled cheese ever! And how about the Oaks Cafe? Such a unique concept. It was a cafe that was owned by friends of my parents and grandparents, Mr. Charlie and Mrs. Gladys Salter. They served the BEST hamburger in Alabama and possibly the United States! Their menu consisted of hamburgers, Golden Flake potato chips, and ice cold cokes (or a frosty cold beer for the grown-ups). I remember as a little girl, we would go to the Oaks to pick up burgers, but my momma and I would have to wait in the car. Daddy would take my brother in with him, but the ladies had to wait outside. Cause you see there were men in there drinking a beer. Makes me giggle to think about it! In the later years they did add french fries to the menu I believe, but you still had the option of chips. Loved that place.
So many memories. Because I live in a suburb of St. Louis, that kind of customer service is unheard of, not to mention we are in a much different time now than back in those days. But I will say, to this day Brewton remains the same with the family owned businesses. I still enjoy visiting the local shops when I’m in town. Not only are the people over-the-top friendly, but it really makes me so proud to be from that kind of town. Even though we have long since moved away, we can still call Herringtons and have them deliver flowers for us. I would put Ronny Herrington and his staff on any celebrity wedding out there! His talent is endless! I also love visiting Antigones. I order from them when they post cute things on their Instagram account and it’s free shipping! I could go on and on about all the fun shops Brewton has to offer.
So what does fine china have to do with all of this nostalgia? When you live far away from where you grew up, something as simple as finding a box of old china can take you back. I miss those simple times. I also remember what a big treat it was when we would take a trip to Pensacola. We didn’t go there to shop unless it was for something we couldn’t get otherwise. Daddy spent his money in town. I know that sometimes you have to go to the big city and make purchases; and I’m pretty sure I did when I still lived in at home, but as you grow older, life becomes a bit more simplistic. I’m always reminded of that simplicity when I visit Brewton. I hear a lot of people say, “well Brewton will never change” and for me, that’s just fine. Change is good. Familiarity is better. Shop locally. It’s truly a blessing that you can’t realize until you move away.
The china is now unpacked and it has a new home in my new buffet. I’m thinking the next family dinner we have, we’re going to be eating off that china. I’m also going to use those beautiful crystal goblets. People thought we were special enough as a couple to gift us with this beautiful china. It’s to be used, not stored away. And every time I use it, I will think about where it came from and all the fond memories I have of shopping in my sweet little hometown. Change is good, (using fine china), but familiarity is better (Brewton, stay the same). Enjoy the rest of your weekend!
Much love,
Sandi xoxo
Southern Savorings 
Thanks for the mention Sandi! What a great article about Brewton! Come see us next time your in town!
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Thank you! I’ll be sure to stop in on my next visit!
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Sandi, I loved your post and love living in a small town. Originally, I am from Evergreen and have been in Brewton for 39 years!!!!!! I spent the night @ your house many nights and loved your Mom & Dad and the whole Family. What wonderful memories you have stirred in me. Thank you for your post…..you have a special gift …writing…..I could visualize everything you wrote and just see you @ The Oaks…..Freddie purchased many a delicious hamburger there!!!!!!!
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Oh Maureen!! How excited I am to hear from you! Thank you so much for your sweet words! You meant so much to me when I was growing up and I loved when you spent the night with us! I remember one time in particular you took me to Monroeville to spend the night with you and you bought me a cookbook that I still have to this day! Who knows, maybe that’s where my love of cooking started! I’m so thankful you got to read this blog and I cherish the memories I have of spending time with one of the sweetest ladies I’ve ever known! I hope you are doing well and I would love to see you on one of my visits to Brewton! And yes, Freddie did purchase many burgers at the Oaks, as did all of us! Love you sweet lady! I’m going to friend you on Facebook!
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Really enjoyed this article. Brings backs memories.
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Thank you Cyndi! I sure love my hometown!
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I worked at Henry Hill with Sarah. Good times!
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Carol, Sarah is a sweetie! I know y’all had some great times!!
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sandi ;
As reading this nice , beautiful story I can’t help but drift back for a minute in time as a little boy and feel the those same feelings as you describe. I can remember ridding that elevator up & down , in the old Robbins McGowin store , pretending I really had a need to go both up & down while my grandmother would shop.
I remember when it was my birthday and I got a cake from Todds bakery . Unbelievable ! And so was his doughnuts !
I remember all this too , Because I was Gladys & Charlie’s ( Oaks Cafe ) grandson and they would keep me while they also worked , so I spent time wondering around the Brewton heights shopping center.
All that beautiful crystal & China as you mention at the carriage house ,only glimmered with wealth , and I often wondered how wealthy the folks were who were purchasing those items. …. Wow !
Anyway , got lost for a moment . Thank you for mentioning The Oaks . It really did touch a lot of people’s lives and the history is still carrying forward as I myself have opened and running it today , now going on for (6) years. Although not in the same location as then , we are located on the north end of town. Thank you and stop by if ever in the area ! Lew.
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Thank you Lew! I spent time babysitting you at The Oaks! And taking you across the street to the Brewton Heights shopping center to shop! I’m Sandi Frazier and I loved your grandparents and your parents! We will stop by and say hello when we’re in town next!!
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Great trip down memory lane! I remember getting a “hang ten” shirt from the Fair Store Loves that shirt!
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Me too Terrie!!!
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I LOVED everything about this post! Also, such a sweet comment about my daddy, Ronny. We love what we do in the floral industry!!! We are also the only store in Brewton now that you can register for fine china. I love old southern traditions!
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Thank you Hillary! You guys do amazing work! No matter where you live, if you’re from the South you never get away from Southern Traditions! I love you guys register china! Hard to believe you’re the only ones in town that do it now. I’ll have to stop in when I’m in town and take a look! I have the “Sweet Home” cutting board on my birthday list! Sure hope they take the hint. Thanks again!
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This was an amazing story about growing up in a small town atmosphere. Loved every word of it, especially the “China” aspect and the heartfelt meaning behind each and every piece you received. Wonderful story and thank you so much for sharing it 🙂
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Thank you very much Dan! I’m very happy you enjoyed reading.
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Thank you for he trip down memory Lane..it was lovely.
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Thank you Reba. I’m happy you enjoyed the read!
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Sandi,
Thank you so much for the walk down memory lane. I too am from the little Southern town of Brewton, Alabama and have had similar experiences, as you and I are very close in age. Though it is safety packed and stored, I also still have my Noritake wedding china, Gorham Crystal, Oneida silverware, all from the Carriage House. My mother, Dee Hillman, worked there for several years so I had the privilege of visiting the store, and the ladies who worked there, often. Sometimes, when they were really busy, I would help gift wrap customer purchases, as elegant gift wrapping was always complimentary. At the time, I never really appreciated how special these interactions were. Though my husband Bob and I left Brewton in 1994, I am very proud of my southern roots and try to never take them for granted. My father, Charles W. Hillman still lives there so, when we get the chance, we do make trips back to visit him. Bob and I have been traveling the country in an RV for the last 6 1/2 years and are currently heading to the Mile High City of Denver, CO where we will be putting down new roots I am really looking forward to unpacking and seeing all of my Carriage House collections of fine china, crystal, and silverware again. I’m quite sure the memories are going to flood back in and It is going to feel like Christmas. I will think of you on that day! Thank you for Southern Savorings and your reflections from the past. I will check back from time to time, just to say hi.
Best Regards,
Christina L. Heilmann
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What sweet words Christina! I know you! I’m Sandi Frazier. Now Caro. We played together as children, as we were close friends with your Uncle Scott and family. I had forgotten your Mother worked at Carriage House. I sure love my hometown and all my years of memories! I miss the small town atmosphere! Thanks again and enjoy that beautiful china!
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For sure. I just love your blog and recipes. I look forward to trying some of them. There is nothing quite like a Southern meal, made with passion and love and looks like you have mastered it. If you ever find yourself in Denver, please don’t hesitate to look us up.
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I sure will and the same to you if you are in St Louis! I’m excited for you to try some of the recipes! It truly is my passion! Thank you again!
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What a wonderful article— — there is no place in the world like our hometown!! You brought so many wonderful memories flooding back. I would love an Oak’s burger, nickel coke ( on crushed ice) or a Mason’s hamburger. Do you remember the “elevator man” and R &M ? What a kind and patient man to let us kids go up and down – and the iron caged door that would close first? Walking to town was the highlight of the week– I can remember so many adults that would pull over and offer us a ride! ( not something that would happen today except in Brewton). Another favorite was the penny candy at the 5 and 10 cent store downtown! Or eating breakfast at the bus station?
Thank you for a beautifully written blog and a fabulous trip down memory lane! Love my Brewton!
Cindy Rosemore Butler
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Cindy, I so remember the “elevator man” at R & M and the caged door! And the 5 and 10 cent store downtown. I remember their ceiling fans for some weird reason! Thank you for your sweet words and I couldn’t agree more…..there is no place in the world like our hometown! I could write a book of memories! Thanks again for visiting!
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Love this post, Sandi. Love your writing. Hearing about your china and the memories really touched me. How sweet and precious to think that people would give such lavish gifts to show how precious you are to them and to honor your marriage. Beautiful post.
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Thank you Gretchen. I’m so happy you liked it. I sure miss my hometown and I’m looking forward to returning there soon. Thankful for the Dare’s and our time together and I know you are going to love your time in the South! Thanks again for your sweet words!
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Thanks for sharing your memories—they are mine, too.
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Thank you Sandy. Hope you are doing well!
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Love your post. What a wonderful description of our hometown. Nothing quite like the small town of Brewton. I worked at Elmore’s for several years in my youth. Downtown was the place for so many years. What great memories!
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Thank you so much Sarah. I sure loved going to Elmore’s!
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I loved this. It brought back, many memories of the town , people I know. I remember Bonnie from the Fair store.I could hear her voice. She was so nice Ang good to every one who came in to shop.Thank you for sharing.
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I’m so happy you enjoyed reading it! I sure miss my sweet little hometown. Thank you for your sweet words!
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Wonderful story and so true about Brewton. I came before you and remember MIss Irene Jernigan’s dress shop, Western Auto, Everages, Libba Rutlands dress shop, Ideal Café, Mason Drug Store. A& P downtown. King Holts shoe store, James Knox Grocery, Carl Allen’s Grocery and many more. Nothing like a small town to raise a family and excellent school systems. Thank you for sharing your story. Great memories.
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Thank you Ann for reading. I’m so happy you enjoyed. I also remember Western Auto, Everages, Ideal, Mason’s and Knox Grocery. It was certainly a great town to be raised in and I love to say I’m from Brewton! Thank you for your sweet words!
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I’ve lived in Brewton most of my life, as has my dad and his parents as well. It’s hard to explain what the attraction is for those who haven’t lived ever here or been here for very long. Your story tells what I haven’t been able to verbalize.
I remember all of those stores and more. But they weren’t just mindless conglomerates like Walmart. They were owned by the people who lived here with kids we went to school with. The Fair Store was owned by the Lazarus’s. I went to school with thier kids. The ribbon mill was operated by Mike Lubel. I had a crush on his daughter Beth in elementary school. The Miller’s and Neal’s had the lumber mill and my family, the Wilson’s, had the local foundry and machine shop. Mrs. Elenore Hines owned and ran the Carriage House. She was such a wonderful lady, always having a smile for all who came into her store. Sammy Weaver owned Weaver’s. He loved downtown Brewton and worked hard to preserve it.
We all worked together and we played together. It was a simple time.
Thank you for bringing back such good memories.
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Thank you Rick for your kind words. Although, I was an East Brewton girl, sounds like we both love our city! I look forward until I’m back!
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I found your post last night and took a wonderful trip down memory lane. Just yesterday I was telling my husband about the elevator man at R&M. I worked at Weaver’s during high school and college and remember well all of the stores you mentioned. It was such a special time. Thank you!
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Thank you, Lisa. I’m so happy you enjoyed my story. Great to hear from you!
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Funny how reading this can take you right back to a much simpler time. My mother would frequent the Carriage House, and would always say “look but don’t touch. My mother made many wedding and birthday cakes for people in the area. Thanks for the trip down memory lane.
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