Ed. note
Ed. note: Doubtful anyone is still alive who remembers the R. L Savage General Merchandise store in San Juan, but as far as historical photos are concerned, this one is a winner. Obviously it’s near Bus. 83 because you can see the train track in the photo’s background. What a large group of people, though, standing in close proximity to one another. Hispanics, Anglos, one who looks to appear black sitting in the wagon with the mule in the lead. It looks like there is even a child sitting in the wagon. The picture is marked “Post Office,” so as was the case in most cities during this time period, the store probably pulled double duty, processing mail as well as selling merchandise. Notice the lack of windows. When the Valley’s summer heat hit 100, how much breeze moved through that store, and how hot must the interior have been? Thanks to my pal, Rene Torres, for the photo.
