The house that occupies the Customliner site in Herndon Woods, Virginia.
Photo taken Summer, 2008.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Then ....
(Washington Star, 2/19/55, reprinted with permission from the D.C. Public Library, copyright Washington Post.)
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
At Last, The Pictures!
After a brief wait in the DC Public Library's Washingtoniana Division, I was permitted entry into the back rooms to view the authentic pages of the Evening Star.
In order to handle the documents, I had to store all my worldly possessions (except camera) in a locker and sign a copyright approval form, which was then approved by the librarian. I was instructed in the art of turning the ancient newspaper pages to avoid tears. (The proper method was a bit like holding a newborn baby.)
Among Home Show ads and a photo of the much-touted "Outdoor Room," was one picture of the Customliner. This would be as close as I would ever get to seeing the subject of this blog in person. That made the trip and the permission forms worthwhile.
Customliner pictures featured above. Below, some other Evening Star photos of interest.
An advertisement for the Home Show's entertainment. One of the musicians, Connie B. Gay, would go on to own radio station WGAY, a Washington-area easy-listening station for many years.
(Washington Star, Feb. 18, 1955, reprinted with permission of the D.C. Public Library, copyright Washington Post)
Other Home Show attractions included a canine fashion show and a live wedding ceremony! (Washington Star, Feb. 18, 1955, reprinted with permission of the D.C. Public Library, copyright Washington Post)
In order to handle the documents, I had to store all my worldly possessions (except camera) in a locker and sign a copyright approval form, which was then approved by the librarian. I was instructed in the art of turning the ancient newspaper pages to avoid tears. (The proper method was a bit like holding a newborn baby.)
Among Home Show ads and a photo of the much-touted "Outdoor Room," was one picture of the Customliner. This would be as close as I would ever get to seeing the subject of this blog in person. That made the trip and the permission forms worthwhile.
Customliner pictures featured above. Below, some other Evening Star photos of interest.
An advertisement for the Home Show's entertainment. One of the musicians, Connie B. Gay, would go on to own radio station WGAY, a Washington-area easy-listening station for many years.
(Washington Star, Feb. 18, 1955, reprinted with permission of the D.C. Public Library, copyright Washington Post)
Other Home Show attractions included a canine fashion show and a live wedding ceremony! (Washington Star, Feb. 18, 1955, reprinted with permission of the D.C. Public Library, copyright Washington Post)
Monday, February 23, 2009
54 Years Ago This Week
More than a half-century ago this week, the 1955 Washington Home Show was well under way. Newsworthy highlights included:
February 19 - Opening day meant coverage from two area radio stations. Listen to four hours of music broadcast live from the show by Fred Fiske of WWDC. Join Johnny Batchelder for the official opening and interviews on WRC.
February 19 - 27, 10:30 pm nightly - Let off a little steam at the evening square dance festival. You could be invited onstage to practice your steps with local professional and amateur square dance teams! Prefer to watch? You'll be treated to "unique, unrehearsed square dances by some of the most able square dancers in the metropolitan Washington area."
Sources:
Radio Highlights
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Feb 19, 1955; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post
page 21.
Square Dancing At Home Show
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Feb 20, 1955; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post pg. G2
February 19 - Opening day meant coverage from two area radio stations. Listen to four hours of music broadcast live from the show by Fred Fiske of WWDC. Join Johnny Batchelder for the official opening and interviews on WRC.
February 19 - 27, 10:30 pm nightly - Let off a little steam at the evening square dance festival. You could be invited onstage to practice your steps with local professional and amateur square dance teams! Prefer to watch? You'll be treated to "unique, unrehearsed square dances by some of the most able square dancers in the metropolitan Washington area."
Sources:
Radio Highlights
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Feb 19, 1955; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post
page 21.
Square Dancing At Home Show
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Feb 20, 1955; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post pg. G2
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Hope in the Star
The photo librarian at the DC Public Library reports that there are images of the Washington Home Show in the February, 1955 editions of the old Evening Star newspaper. She says if I can supply her with the dates and pages where the images appear, she can locate the original edition from the library's collection.
Little did I know that John, a resourceful follower of this serial, looked up Home Show images in the Evening Star on his own. Even more exciting, he believes one of the homes pictured may be the Customliner! John, thanks again for adding so much to the quest.
Next up: an appointment at the library.
Little did I know that John, a resourceful follower of this serial, looked up Home Show images in the Evening Star on his own. Even more exciting, he believes one of the homes pictured may be the Customliner! John, thanks again for adding so much to the quest.
Next up: an appointment at the library.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Check-In
I contacted the photo librarian at the D.C. Public Library today. She's going to review the library's collection from the now-defunct Evening Star newspaper to see if there are any from the 1955 Washington Home Show.
I also placed an ad on a local online site, looking for anyone willing to share their photos of the Herndon Woods area in the 1950s. Maybe a long shot, but worth trying.
We'll see what happens.
I also placed an ad on a local online site, looking for anyone willing to share their photos of the Herndon Woods area in the 1950s. Maybe a long shot, but worth trying.
We'll see what happens.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
A New Take on the Image Search
Having looked at selections of Fifties clip art online this evening, I've come to the conclusion that it just doesn't fit the mood of what I've written here so far. I've got to find pictures of Herndon Woods, the actual Customliner itself, and even the '55 Home Show!
Tonight, I applied for membership in some online groups. Hopefully, I can post some ads seeking people who might have such photos in their collections. Tomorrow, I'll get back in touch with the photo librarian at the D.C. Public Library. And then, see if I can locate the last owners of the Customliner.
Just when I thought I was out of ideas ...
Tonight, I applied for membership in some online groups. Hopefully, I can post some ads seeking people who might have such photos in their collections. Tomorrow, I'll get back in touch with the photo librarian at the D.C. Public Library. And then, see if I can locate the last owners of the Customliner.
Just when I thought I was out of ideas ...
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Wrap-Up, Part 3: National Homes
National Homes sat atop the prefabricated housing market at the time the Customliner was built in 1955. In September, 1956, the company produced its 100,000th home and had operating plants in LaFayette, Indiana; Horseheads, New York; and Tyler, Texas.
In 1959, the company was named in a federal antitrust lawsuit. The Justice Department sought to require National Homes to sell off seven recently acquired, smaller prefab firms. This acquisition brought National's market share from 25 percent to 38 percent. In contrast, according to the government, no competitor had more than 5 percent of the market share.
Acting assistant attorney general Robert Bicks wanted to "check [National Homes'] incipiency in what appares to be a tendency to monopoly in this infant industry." (Unfortunately, at this writing I have been unable to determine what became of this lawsuit.)
In early 1961, National celebrated completion of its 200,000th home. At that time, a new model was shipped to and assembled in Seabrook Park Estates in Lanham, Maryland, about 40 miles from the Customliner in Herndon, Virginia. The Washington Post described this home as a "7-room, split foyer Colonial with 1511 square feet, including an 18-by-24-foot recreation room and a 2-car garage." This model was marketed to home buyers looking to trade up, and was the only one of its kind in the D.C. area.
That same year, National Homes presented a children's playhouse, one-third the size of a normal-size house, to the District of Columbia Children's Center in the name of the president's daughter, Caroline Kennedy.
After building more than 650,000 homes across the U.S., National Homes fell on hard times in the 1980's. In August, 1984, the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners rejected a proposed 25 percent reduction in worker wages and benefits. The union had previously accepted two wage concession proposals. But National Homes president David R. Price (son of founder Jim Price) argued the latest reduction was the only way to keep the Lafayette plant open. The plant was subsequently closed in December, 1984.
In 1990, the Lafayette Journal and Courier ran a series on the rise and fall of National Homes. Fourteen years after the plant closing, former workers retained unpleasant feelings and memories over the company’s demise. These include belief that a quarter century of work resulted in a negligible monthly pension, the fact that the plant would have been closed whether the union had agreed to the wage/benefit reductions or not, that the company wasted a lot of money, and that David Price seldom communicated with his company’s workers.
Sources:
National Completes 100,000th Home
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Sep 15, 1956; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post pg. 50
National Homes Named In Anti-Trust Suit
The Washington Post, Times Herald (1959-1973); Nov. 21, 1959; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post pg. B13
National Home Milestone Marked
The Washington Post, Times Herald (1959-1973); Jan 14, 1961; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post pg. B1
Mapquest
A Doll's House Is Built for Caroline
The Washington Post, Times Herald (1959-1973); June 16, 1961; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post (1877-1992) pg. D3
Homes Withstand Test of Time
Lafayette Journal and Courier, Aug. 16, 1990, pg. A1.
Workers Rejected 25% National Homes Pay Cut
Lafayette Journal and Courier, Aug. 14, 1990, pgs. A1 and A3.
In 1959, the company was named in a federal antitrust lawsuit. The Justice Department sought to require National Homes to sell off seven recently acquired, smaller prefab firms. This acquisition brought National's market share from 25 percent to 38 percent. In contrast, according to the government, no competitor had more than 5 percent of the market share.
Acting assistant attorney general Robert Bicks wanted to "check [National Homes'] incipiency in what appares to be a tendency to monopoly in this infant industry." (Unfortunately, at this writing I have been unable to determine what became of this lawsuit.)
In early 1961, National celebrated completion of its 200,000th home. At that time, a new model was shipped to and assembled in Seabrook Park Estates in Lanham, Maryland, about 40 miles from the Customliner in Herndon, Virginia. The Washington Post described this home as a "7-room, split foyer Colonial with 1511 square feet, including an 18-by-24-foot recreation room and a 2-car garage." This model was marketed to home buyers looking to trade up, and was the only one of its kind in the D.C. area.
That same year, National Homes presented a children's playhouse, one-third the size of a normal-size house, to the District of Columbia Children's Center in the name of the president's daughter, Caroline Kennedy.
After building more than 650,000 homes across the U.S., National Homes fell on hard times in the 1980's. In August, 1984, the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners rejected a proposed 25 percent reduction in worker wages and benefits. The union had previously accepted two wage concession proposals. But National Homes president David R. Price (son of founder Jim Price) argued the latest reduction was the only way to keep the Lafayette plant open. The plant was subsequently closed in December, 1984.
In 1990, the Lafayette Journal and Courier ran a series on the rise and fall of National Homes. Fourteen years after the plant closing, former workers retained unpleasant feelings and memories over the company’s demise. These include belief that a quarter century of work resulted in a negligible monthly pension, the fact that the plant would have been closed whether the union had agreed to the wage/benefit reductions or not, that the company wasted a lot of money, and that David Price seldom communicated with his company’s workers.
Sources:
National Completes 100,000th Home
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Sep 15, 1956; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post pg. 50
National Homes Named In Anti-Trust Suit
The Washington Post, Times Herald (1959-1973); Nov. 21, 1959; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post pg. B13
National Home Milestone Marked
The Washington Post, Times Herald (1959-1973); Jan 14, 1961; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post pg. B1
Mapquest
A Doll's House Is Built for Caroline
The Washington Post, Times Herald (1959-1973); June 16, 1961; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post (1877-1992) pg. D3
Homes Withstand Test of Time
Lafayette Journal and Courier, Aug. 16, 1990, pg. A1.
Workers Rejected 25% National Homes Pay Cut
Lafayette Journal and Courier, Aug. 14, 1990, pgs. A1 and A3.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Adding Illustrations
Somehow, I can't let go of the idea that the Customliner crumbled into obscurity six years ago. Is there no one but me who sees some historical value in the life of one prefab home?
Well, maybe.
At any rate, my next step is to add some pictures to this humble blog. At best, maybe I can find some pictures of the Customliner under construction in the D.C. Armory. At least, perhaps some pictures of comparable homes and events in the D.C. area around the same time.
I've already spoken to the photograph librarian at the D.C. Public Library. She thinks they might have some photos of the 1955 Washington Home Show in their collection. She suggested I contact her after the holidays to arrange an appointment.
Suggestions from readers are also welcome!
Well, maybe.
At any rate, my next step is to add some pictures to this humble blog. At best, maybe I can find some pictures of the Customliner under construction in the D.C. Armory. At least, perhaps some pictures of comparable homes and events in the D.C. area around the same time.
I've already spoken to the photograph librarian at the D.C. Public Library. She thinks they might have some photos of the 1955 Washington Home Show in their collection. She suggested I contact her after the holidays to arrange an appointment.
Suggestions from readers are also welcome!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Inside A National Home
I was finally able to reschedule my visit with Virginia Clarity this week, and go inside a National Home!
As expected, Ms. Clarity’s house has seen many changes since it was built in 1955. A living room has been added, as well as a mud room in the back. The original living room now serves as the dining room, and the “dining el” has been removed in favor of a larger kitchen. Wooden kitchen cabinets long ago replaced the original, which were made of white metal.
The original windows, with the exception of one, have also disappeared. That includes the “window-wall,” which was meant to enhance the “indoor-outdoor living” idea. Ms. Clarity noted that condensation often formed on the window-wall, causing the wooden slots below to rot.
The Clarity home was the least expensive model offered in Herndon Woods. It has one bathroom and no garage or carport, and no basement. (Compare this with the more luxurious Customliner, which featured a remarkable 1 ½ baths and carport.) Ms. Clarity had previously told me she purchased her house to be closer to her parents, but I hadn’t realized that the house built by her father is right next door! On the other side of that house is one once owned by her brother.
Viewing neighboring homes from Ms. Clarity’s back yard, it’s easy to see that the developers’ intention to blend the houses into their wooded setting has survived. It’s a grey winter day, but, even with the leaves off most of the trees, it's easy to miss the other houses perched at different angles in the distance. Many of the trees standing today were also here when ground on Herndon Woods was first broken.
Sadly, Ms. Clarity predicted that her house will eventually be torn down for something new. Any chance of saving the homes for their historical value? Probably not, she predicts. With the arrival of the Customliner’s replacement and other newer homes, the integrity of the original subdivision has been lost.
Getting into my 21st century car, I come upon an unexpected link to the Herndon of the Fifties: Ms. Clarity’s driveway, which once backed onto a simple country road, is now off one of the town’s busiest streets! With some careful maneuvering, I’m able to turn the car around so I can exit head first.
As expected, Ms. Clarity’s house has seen many changes since it was built in 1955. A living room has been added, as well as a mud room in the back. The original living room now serves as the dining room, and the “dining el” has been removed in favor of a larger kitchen. Wooden kitchen cabinets long ago replaced the original, which were made of white metal.
The original windows, with the exception of one, have also disappeared. That includes the “window-wall,” which was meant to enhance the “indoor-outdoor living” idea. Ms. Clarity noted that condensation often formed on the window-wall, causing the wooden slots below to rot.
The Clarity home was the least expensive model offered in Herndon Woods. It has one bathroom and no garage or carport, and no basement. (Compare this with the more luxurious Customliner, which featured a remarkable 1 ½ baths and carport.) Ms. Clarity had previously told me she purchased her house to be closer to her parents, but I hadn’t realized that the house built by her father is right next door! On the other side of that house is one once owned by her brother.
Viewing neighboring homes from Ms. Clarity’s back yard, it’s easy to see that the developers’ intention to blend the houses into their wooded setting has survived. It’s a grey winter day, but, even with the leaves off most of the trees, it's easy to miss the other houses perched at different angles in the distance. Many of the trees standing today were also here when ground on Herndon Woods was first broken.
Sadly, Ms. Clarity predicted that her house will eventually be torn down for something new. Any chance of saving the homes for their historical value? Probably not, she predicts. With the arrival of the Customliner’s replacement and other newer homes, the integrity of the original subdivision has been lost.
Getting into my 21st century car, I come upon an unexpected link to the Herndon of the Fifties: Ms. Clarity’s driveway, which once backed onto a simple country road, is now off one of the town’s busiest streets! With some careful maneuvering, I’m able to turn the car around so I can exit head first.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Wrap-Up, Part 2: Herndon Woods
The Herndon Woods subdivision makes its first appearance in the Washington Post and Times Herald on September 5, 1954. On that day, the paper announced that National Homes' "Ranger" model, located in Herndon Woods, would be featured in its "Homes of '54" exhibition.
The "Ranger" was well received by the house-hunting public. The Post reported that the Herndon population was "temporarily doubled when 2000 visitors came to town" to see the model.
In 1954, Herndon Woods won the Merit Award in the National Homes competition for outstanding community planning. The community was recognized for preserving its "natural wooded setting." In 1955, Herndon Woods won the Special Merit Award from Parents Magazine for the best planned home project for families with children.
Herndon Woods still exists today. Overseen by the Herndon Woods Homeowners Association, it includes many of the Customliner's original brethren as well as 33 townhomes. The wooded landscape survives, although some residents have faced termite problems as a result. It's still possible to get the feeling of peaceful, country living, even though 21st century office buildings loom at the other end of the main thoroughfare.
Sources:
Final Entries Announced in the Homes of '54 Exhibit
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Sep 5, 1954; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post (1877 - 1992)
p. R1
'Homes of' 54 Doubles Size Of Va. Town
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Sep 19, 1954; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington
p. R2
Display Ad 89 -- No Title
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Apr 24, 1955; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post (1877 - 1992)
p. K-11
Local Project Honored for Site Planning
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Sep 18, 1955; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post (1877 - 1991) p. G15
Herndon Woods Gets Merit Award For "Family Living"
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Oct 31, 1954; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post (1877 - 1991) p. R10
Final Entries Announced in the Homes of '54 Exhibit
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Sep 5, 1954; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post (1877 - 1992) pg R1
Herndon Woods Homeowners Association Website.
The "Ranger" was well received by the house-hunting public. The Post reported that the Herndon population was "temporarily doubled when 2000 visitors came to town" to see the model.
In 1954, Herndon Woods won the Merit Award in the National Homes competition for outstanding community planning. The community was recognized for preserving its "natural wooded setting." In 1955, Herndon Woods won the Special Merit Award from Parents Magazine for the best planned home project for families with children.
Herndon Woods still exists today. Overseen by the Herndon Woods Homeowners Association, it includes many of the Customliner's original brethren as well as 33 townhomes. The wooded landscape survives, although some residents have faced termite problems as a result. It's still possible to get the feeling of peaceful, country living, even though 21st century office buildings loom at the other end of the main thoroughfare.
Sources:
Final Entries Announced in the Homes of '54 Exhibit
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Sep 5, 1954; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post (1877 - 1992)
p. R1
'Homes of' 54 Doubles Size Of Va. Town
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Sep 19, 1954; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington
p. R2
Display Ad 89 -- No Title
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Apr 24, 1955; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post (1877 - 1992)
p. K-11
Local Project Honored for Site Planning
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Sep 18, 1955; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post (1877 - 1991) p. G15
Herndon Woods Gets Merit Award For "Family Living"
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Oct 31, 1954; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post (1877 - 1991) p. R10
Final Entries Announced in the Homes of '54 Exhibit
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Sep 5, 1954; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post (1877 - 1992) pg R1
Herndon Woods Homeowners Association Website.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Wrap-Up: The Fate of the Major Players in the Customliner Saga
The National Homes Customliner was built inside the D.C. Armory as part of the 1955 Washington Home Show. Designated a featured attraction, it was viewed by more than 50,000 people.
At the end of the Home Show, the Customliner was moved to the Herndon Woods subdivision in Herndon, Virginia. A picture of the Customliner appeared in the Washington Post and Times Herald on March 27, 1955.
The Customliner remained in Herndon Woods until 2002. A demolition permit for the property was issued by the Town of Herndon on May 15 of that year. Although the actual date of demolition is not known, the first inspection of the home that now occupies the site took place on July 11, 2002.
The annual Washington Home Show continued at the D.C. Armory through the remainder of the 1950s and into the 1960s. Attractions for 1956 included "'Back Yard Vacationland,' which included a home with 'three standing walls' and an entire back yard meant to show 'homemakers how to stretch the family living area into the back yard.'" In 1957, attendees viewed a "Teen-Age Haven" (masculine and feminine versions) and a "'Miracle Kitchen sponsored by RCA Whirlpool to demonstrate possible future mechanical kitchen innovations.'"
Following the 1961 event, the next Washington Home Show was canceled over a dispute between Home Show sponsors and the District Armory Board. At that time, the Board implemented a $1 parking fee as a way to help finance a new stadium. According to James Pearson, executive director of the Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Washington, exhibitors balked at investing in displays when patrons might boycot the show over the new parking charge.
In 1963, the Home Show was replaced by a "Parade of Homes" which featured newly constructed homes on a street in northern Virginia.
Sources:
Home Show House Features Outdoor Living
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Feb 13, 1955; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post (1877 - 1991)
pg. G4
Save on Short Lengths
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Mar 27, 1955; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post (1877 - 1991)
pg. G10
Colleen McKnight, Special Collections Librarian
Historical Society of Washington, D.C.
Building Inspections
Town of Herndon, Virginia
At the end of the Home Show, the Customliner was moved to the Herndon Woods subdivision in Herndon, Virginia. A picture of the Customliner appeared in the Washington Post and Times Herald on March 27, 1955.
The Customliner remained in Herndon Woods until 2002. A demolition permit for the property was issued by the Town of Herndon on May 15 of that year. Although the actual date of demolition is not known, the first inspection of the home that now occupies the site took place on July 11, 2002.
The annual Washington Home Show continued at the D.C. Armory through the remainder of the 1950s and into the 1960s. Attractions for 1956 included "'Back Yard Vacationland,' which included a home with 'three standing walls' and an entire back yard meant to show 'homemakers how to stretch the family living area into the back yard.'" In 1957, attendees viewed a "Teen-Age Haven" (masculine and feminine versions) and a "'Miracle Kitchen sponsored by RCA Whirlpool to demonstrate possible future mechanical kitchen innovations.'"
Following the 1961 event, the next Washington Home Show was canceled over a dispute between Home Show sponsors and the District Armory Board. At that time, the Board implemented a $1 parking fee as a way to help finance a new stadium. According to James Pearson, executive director of the Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Washington, exhibitors balked at investing in displays when patrons might boycot the show over the new parking charge.
In 1963, the Home Show was replaced by a "Parade of Homes" which featured newly constructed homes on a street in northern Virginia.
Sources:
Home Show House Features Outdoor Living
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Feb 13, 1955; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post (1877 - 1991)
pg. G4
Save on Short Lengths
The Washington Post and Times Herald (1954-1959); Mar 27, 1955; ProQuest Historical Newspapers The Washington Post (1877 - 1991)
pg. G10
Colleen McKnight, Special Collections Librarian
Historical Society of Washington, D.C.
Building Inspections
Town of Herndon, Virginia
Friday, October 24, 2008
Conference on Fairfax County History
Anyone in the Fairfax area mid-November might be interested in attending the Fourth Annual Fairfax County History Conference. It will be held Saturday, November 15 from 8:30 am to 4:15 pm at the main campus of Northern Virginia Community College, 8333 Little River Turnpike, Annandale, VA 22003.
Speakers include Chris Martin, Ph.D., whom I've mentioned on this blog.
Sessions include "Seven Corners: A Post World War II Transformation" and "All Roads Lead to Fairfax: Tourist Courts and Diners." 20th century architecture and Fairfax County's agricultural heritage will also be discussed.
Registration is $30 and includes parking, breakfast and lunch.
For more information, contact Lynne Garvey-Hodge at 703-322-1811 or lghassoc@erols.com.
Speakers include Chris Martin, Ph.D., whom I've mentioned on this blog.
Sessions include "Seven Corners: A Post World War II Transformation" and "All Roads Lead to Fairfax: Tourist Courts and Diners." 20th century architecture and Fairfax County's agricultural heritage will also be discussed.
Registration is $30 and includes parking, breakfast and lunch.
For more information, contact Lynne Garvey-Hodge at 703-322-1811 or lghassoc@erols.com.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Technical Difficulties ... Please Stand By
I had to cancel my date with Virginia due to an incredibly persistent cold which has been going strong for the past couple of weeks.
In between long stretches tucked under the covers watching "Judge Judy," I logged on to Barbara Sher's bulletin board. To my delight, I discovered the ever-helpful regulars had provided suggestions for improving my blog. What better motivation could there be to get out of my pajamas and back on track?
Tomorrow I'm heading back to the Fairfax City Library with some fresh, meaty questions for the folks at the reference desk. And I'll reschedule my visit with Virginia Clarity next week.
In between long stretches tucked under the covers watching "Judge Judy," I logged on to Barbara Sher's bulletin board. To my delight, I discovered the ever-helpful regulars had provided suggestions for improving my blog. What better motivation could there be to get out of my pajamas and back on track?
Tomorrow I'm heading back to the Fairfax City Library with some fresh, meaty questions for the folks at the reference desk. And I'll reschedule my visit with Virginia Clarity next week.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Coffee and Local History
Virginia Clarity and I met in a pleasantly empty Starbuck's last Tuesday. The conversation was so enjoyable, 90 minutes passed unnoticed.
According to Ms. Clarity, the Customliner met its end approximately seven or eight years ago. Small by today's standards, it was being used as a rental property at the time of the final sale. The new owners had it torn down and built a new house in its place. And so, apparently, the Customliner lived out its life in Herndon without much ceremony.
In the forty-five years it was here, the Customliner and its neighborhood saw tremendous changes to their hometown. Now a D.C. suburb of approximately 22,000 people, Herndon in 1955 was a farming town of about 2000. Ms. Clarity recalled shopping in downtown Herndon and knowing everyone in the stores. Hardly a likely event now.
Federal government workers were already settling in Herndon in the mid-fifties. There was no Beltway at the time, and Metrorail was decades away, but workers could still get to the city by taking the W&OD railroad and streetcars into Washington. The W&OD still hosts commuters today - on bicycles.
Ms. Clarity purchased her Herndon Woods home a few months after the Customliner's arrival, and still lives there today. She says Herndon Woods was the town's first subdivision, advertised as reasonably priced housing friendly to couples with young children. Her reasons for buying her home: a desire to return to Herndon, reasonable cost, and to be close to her parents.
Ms. Clarity also recalled the financial inequalities that existed between the sexes at the time. If both spouses worked, only the husband's income would be considered in financing a home. After all, the woman would be giving up her job to keep house and take care of children! It also would have been difficult for a married woman to obtain a credit card in her own name. Why would she need one when her husband had an account? Single "working girls" might have an easier time getting credit, but in Ms. Clarity's experience, they would "go beserk" and spend beyond their means.
It seems hard to believe now, but credit cards would not have been readily available in 1955. In fact, Ms. Clarity says her parents did not get their first credit cards -- for gas -- in 1968, and she did not get any of her own until that same time. And credit limits were much lower and payment terms stricter. (Are we heading back in that direction today?)
The way Herndon Woods was built also reflects a different time. Instead of clearing the lot, existing trees were preserved. And the houses were built at different angles so that the yards formed an unfenced common area which was used for neighborhood get-togethers on weekends. A novel idea when so many neighborhood yards are now boxed in by fences.
My next step is to visit Ms. Clarity's home, and perhaps get some photos!
According to Ms. Clarity, the Customliner met its end approximately seven or eight years ago. Small by today's standards, it was being used as a rental property at the time of the final sale. The new owners had it torn down and built a new house in its place. And so, apparently, the Customliner lived out its life in Herndon without much ceremony.
In the forty-five years it was here, the Customliner and its neighborhood saw tremendous changes to their hometown. Now a D.C. suburb of approximately 22,000 people, Herndon in 1955 was a farming town of about 2000. Ms. Clarity recalled shopping in downtown Herndon and knowing everyone in the stores. Hardly a likely event now.
Federal government workers were already settling in Herndon in the mid-fifties. There was no Beltway at the time, and Metrorail was decades away, but workers could still get to the city by taking the W&OD railroad and streetcars into Washington. The W&OD still hosts commuters today - on bicycles.
Ms. Clarity purchased her Herndon Woods home a few months after the Customliner's arrival, and still lives there today. She says Herndon Woods was the town's first subdivision, advertised as reasonably priced housing friendly to couples with young children. Her reasons for buying her home: a desire to return to Herndon, reasonable cost, and to be close to her parents.
Ms. Clarity also recalled the financial inequalities that existed between the sexes at the time. If both spouses worked, only the husband's income would be considered in financing a home. After all, the woman would be giving up her job to keep house and take care of children! It also would have been difficult for a married woman to obtain a credit card in her own name. Why would she need one when her husband had an account? Single "working girls" might have an easier time getting credit, but in Ms. Clarity's experience, they would "go beserk" and spend beyond their means.
It seems hard to believe now, but credit cards would not have been readily available in 1955. In fact, Ms. Clarity says her parents did not get their first credit cards -- for gas -- in 1968, and she did not get any of her own until that same time. And credit limits were much lower and payment terms stricter. (Are we heading back in that direction today?)
The way Herndon Woods was built also reflects a different time. Instead of clearing the lot, existing trees were preserved. And the houses were built at different angles so that the yards formed an unfenced common area which was used for neighborhood get-togethers on weekends. A novel idea when so many neighborhood yards are now boxed in by fences.
My next step is to visit Ms. Clarity's home, and perhaps get some photos!
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Hope on the Horizon
The past couple weeks have been discouraging. I hadn't heard back from Ms. Clarity. Fred Fiske was kind enough to reply to my letter, but he only recalls broadcasting from the home show, not any details. Mid-Century Mike's contact did not come through.
I'd been close to giving up this mission. Then, Virginia Clarity replied to my e-mail! We are tentatively scheduled to meet September 30. At that time, perhaps, all will be revealed.
I'd been close to giving up this mission. Then, Virginia Clarity replied to my e-mail! We are tentatively scheduled to meet September 30. At that time, perhaps, all will be revealed.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Cultivating a Friendship
I'm trying to set up a coffee with Ms. Virginia Clarity. I suspect she may have some interesting things to say about what life was like back when the Customliner touched ground. In an e-mail, she says she doesn't recall much celebration for the house's arrival. In fact, she believes a town councilman at the time referred to the housing development as "Herndon's first slum." Hmm.
I've also mailed off a letter to Fred Fiske at WAMU radio.
Interesting information to follow soon. I hope.
I've also mailed off a letter to Fred Fiske at WAMU radio.
Interesting information to follow soon. I hope.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
RIP Customliner
This afternoon, I sent an e-mail to Carol Bruce, president of the Herndon Historical Society. She in turn forwarded it to the society vice president, aptly named Virginia Clarity.
Ms. Clarity, who has been a resident of Herndon Woods since 1955, reported that the Customliner is no longer standing. It has been replaced by a large, white house.
After all this effort, I feel I should drive by and scatter flowers on the house's front lawn. What a sad way to end the saga.
Now I can turn my attention to conducting a post mortem. Who made the decision to demolish the Customliner and why? Did it bring excitement to the little town of Herndon when it first arrived? How long did it survive in Herndon Woods?
This will be like investigating the death of a friend.
Ms. Clarity, who has been a resident of Herndon Woods since 1955, reported that the Customliner is no longer standing. It has been replaced by a large, white house.
After all this effort, I feel I should drive by and scatter flowers on the house's front lawn. What a sad way to end the saga.
Now I can turn my attention to conducting a post mortem. Who made the decision to demolish the Customliner and why? Did it bring excitement to the little town of Herndon when it first arrived? How long did it survive in Herndon Woods?
This will be like investigating the death of a friend.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Fred Fiske
Having been unsuccessful at finding a phone number or e-mail for Fred Fiske, I've decided to write him a traditional business letter and send it in care of WAMU radio.
I can't remember the last time I wrote a formal letter on paper. What business style would be best? Block? Modified block? Does anyone even know what those terms mean anymore?
Hopefully, Mr. Fiske will have some insights on what the Home Show was like, and how the Customliner construction was received.
I can't remember the last time I wrote a formal letter on paper. What business style would be best? Block? Modified block? Does anyone even know what those terms mean anymore?
Hopefully, Mr. Fiske will have some insights on what the Home Show was like, and how the Customliner construction was received.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
A Trip to Herndon Woods
I've been sitting at my computer trying to compose an e-mail to Fred Fiske. But it doesn't seem to be happening tonight. So instead, I shall update you, dear readers.
I reached Chris Martin last Monday. Unfortunately, he didn't have a lot of information on the Customliner. He suggested the answer might be found by knocking on doors or talking to senior citizens who might remember the event. He encouraged me to continue, noting that I would find the answer, it would just take some time.
Knocking on strangers' doors? That will take time. Most of the time will involve me getting up the nerve to do it.
Or so I thought, until a fellow musician and I took a field trip to Herndon Woods on Tuesday. This National Homes community still thrives on Austin Lane. A vintage car is even parked on the street. And through the large front windows of one of the homes, we noticed someone was inside.
"Should we go ask?" my friend says.
"We can't just walk up to their front door and knock!" was my first answer. But ... it could make a good story for the blog. And so we did.
Far from having the door slammed in our faces, my friend and I were greeted by a gracious young couple. They clearly had not been born when the Customliner arrived in Herndon, and didn't know much about their home's history other than it was built in 1955. But they did refer us to two long-time residents who might know.
Neither of these people were home at the time. But I took down their addresses and will attempt to locate phone numbers for them. And get in touch with Fred Fiske.
Once again, it's time to get on the phone.
I reached Chris Martin last Monday. Unfortunately, he didn't have a lot of information on the Customliner. He suggested the answer might be found by knocking on doors or talking to senior citizens who might remember the event. He encouraged me to continue, noting that I would find the answer, it would just take some time.
Knocking on strangers' doors? That will take time. Most of the time will involve me getting up the nerve to do it.
Or so I thought, until a fellow musician and I took a field trip to Herndon Woods on Tuesday. This National Homes community still thrives on Austin Lane. A vintage car is even parked on the street. And through the large front windows of one of the homes, we noticed someone was inside.
"Should we go ask?" my friend says.
"We can't just walk up to their front door and knock!" was my first answer. But ... it could make a good story for the blog. And so we did.
Far from having the door slammed in our faces, my friend and I were greeted by a gracious young couple. They clearly had not been born when the Customliner arrived in Herndon, and didn't know much about their home's history other than it was built in 1955. But they did refer us to two long-time residents who might know.
Neither of these people were home at the time. But I took down their addresses and will attempt to locate phone numbers for them. And get in touch with Fred Fiske.
Once again, it's time to get on the phone.
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