I was born and raised at 87-73 112th Street in Richmond Hill. I happened to stumble onto your website and it has brought tears to my eyes and made me homesick for the old neighborhood. Even though I haven't been back to New York in years, I still remember my old school days at Holy Child Jesus School {graduate class of 1968} and my many trips to Jahn's ice cream parlor as a child.

Thank you for your website and for bringing back a piece of the old times. By the way, I graduated with Mrs. Werner's son Gerard.
Added: December 31, 2006

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to All Richmond Hillites,
I am still Looking for Harold Meyer, Judy Meyer, Jimmy Daily, Nancy Hecht, Billy Haas, Mary Bruno, Kristian Krasner, Felicity Thoed, Henry Mulvey. I lived on 104th street and 88th ave. I remember the old Packard, dealership and the Jewish temple on 102 Street, my friend Harold Meyer, attended "SCHULE" here back in the early fifties.
Ken Ball, Sunny San Diego
Added: December 25, 2006

Hello!
Seeking anyone who has stories to relate about the actor Jack Lord of Hawaii Five-O fame. He lived in South Richmond Hill.
Thank you!
Added: December 25, 2006

Hi there.
I lived in RH since I was one year old (1964). I lived in the same house my mom lived in since she was 14 (she's a RHHS alumni). We were on the corner of 127th Street & 103 Avenue. I spent the next 19 years there until I joined the Air Force then lived there (same house) when I seperated from the AF. I rediscovered this site when my mom told me about "St. Benny's" RC Church getting an historic landmark sign. My mom was married there and I made my first Communion there.

Once again the memories flood back to me. I can still remember a time when it was safe to walk on "the avenue"... Liberty Avenue. Karps, Casino and Lefferts theaters, St. Johns, Carlos pizza, Greenwood bakery and a bar on practically every corner (with very rare trouble... "happy drunks"). Fresh produce out for viewing. Uncle Jacks... LOVED to buy matchbox cars there. There was a chocolate or candy shop across from Karp if I remember correctly. By the five and dime (Woolworths with a diner). Snow sledding in the evening with neighbors I never really knew but we all became friends during blizzards.

Being a fireman here in Fairfax County I sadly remember the three fireman who died fighting the fire at the Jolly Giant on Liberty a few blocks back from Lefferts Blvd (1975). Too many other memories to type right now. Oh and I attended Ps. 55 (so did my mom and brother). Thanks for the memories.
Added: December 25, 2006

I attended St. Benedict Joseph Labre School from 1951 to 1959, and Richmond Hill High from '59 to '64. I served as a medic in the army from '66 to '68, and moved to England in Sept. '68. Anyone remember me?
Added: December 25, 2006

For those of us who "hung-out" on the Church steps across from RHHS after playing handball all day, the church, St Paul's Lutheran will be closing its doors in 2007.
This Sunday, this fmr altar boy from HCJ will be leading the Divine Service as guest pastor (in-training). I have preached there several times over the years and confessed early on that I was part of the "crowd" that caused the fence to go up in the first place.
We then moved up to Ponce's, the Miles Shoe Store when they would kick us out, put our quarters together for Gallo Port, then Bali Hi, matured to Boones Farm, then to Mickey's on 101st Ave. We did the same to St John's 114th st. Fessed up there too!
I'll post the date of the closing of St Paul's, perhaps you can join in the closing Holy eucharist, anyone who sahred these memories and those who still need to 'fess up to what happened on those church steps, before the fence when up.
pax, bob rainis
Added: December 16, 2006

For Trudie message Oct. 9th. -- yes, Trudie, I do have my graduation picture, Jan. 1949 from P.S.90! I am in the middle of the fourth row next to Louise Jordan! I was in Mrs. Kiefers class. Where are you in the picture?? Are you in touch with anyone from that graduation??
Added: December 11, 2006

I have a lot of fond memories of friends who lived in Richmond Hill. After reading some of these comments, I would love to reconnect with some of them. I am looking for Debbie Pounder. She lived on 122nd St, between 107 & 109 Aves. She had an older sister named Barbara. If anyone knows how to reach her, please e-mail. Thank you.
Added: December 10, 2006

It is 1937, and I am all of 2 years old. Nothing has changed at home. Chester F. Carlson invents the photocopier.

The first jet engine comes off the assembly line. The New York Yankees win almost every game that year and beat the New York Giants in the World Series, the second game being an 18-4 rout with Bill Dickey and Tony Lazzeri hitting home runs. A few years later my parents take me to Richmond Hill, 125th street to be exact, a small tree-lined street, in a suburb of the great city, where I will grow up.

Soon I meet Emil, who I call Aimee due to his splendid right arm (I guess), and we are daily frequenters to Old Smokey Park and the local ball fields along the Belt Parkway for the next 10 years or so.

By attaching a 2'x4' to an apple crate - stood vertically and fitted with roller skates - I found I could make a scooter and perform figure 8's in a narrow street. By practicing endlessly, he also learns how to win marble shooting contests; and marbles. It is his first brush with gambling.

Smokey park, St. "Bennies" and the candy store are only memories now but some of my fondest of all.
Added: December 7, 2006

I've lived in Richmond Hill practically all my life, and I never realized Richmond Hill was this extraordinary until I read some of these comments! I've lived here ever since my parents moved away from Portugal. I was about four years old. If I ever decide to move away from Richmond Hill (which I won't), I'll move to Portugal since I have two homes. There's no place like home, I say. (And yes, Marie, I'll ask you before I move away.)
Added: November 30, 2006

I lived in Richmond Hill from 1950 to 1961 when we moved to Long Island. Went to PS 66, PS 90 and just about started RHHS before we left. RH was the place to be when you were young - so much fun and so much to see and do. Forest Park, Jahn's, the smell of Wonderbread, the great brownies from the bakery on Jamica Ave by 102nd Street. I lived at 86-03 (?) 102nd Street, my parents were the landlords of the apartment house at 86th Ave and 102nd Street. My brother in law used to own the bar on the corner of Jamica Avenue and 102nd Street "Nicky's Bar".

So many memories came back from reading all the comments. If anyone remembers me - please contact me at my email. Also does anybody remember Louie Burns, Wayne, Ronnie, Gail Addicks? I also would like to find a guy who lived on 102nd Street near PS 66 named Sammy. His mother was a cop/detective and his father was a cop/detective. I wish I could remember his last name. Love to hear from anybody who remembers me from school or just playing outside.
Added: November 29, 2006

Wow, I read some of the comments listed here and got overrun with emotion. Richmond Hill brought me so much joy as a child growing up there. I lived on 114th Street between Liberty Ave. and 107th. There was a theater at the corner named Casino that was coverted into a Martin Paints. I graduated in 1985 from John Adams H.S.

I would meet my father at the train station on 111 Street and Liberty Ave. as he returned from work. I could go on and on. Those happy memories are always with me. I store them in the back of my mind, they always bring a smile to my face.
Added: November 28, 2006

Grew up on 121st St. and 89th Ave. During the '30's and '40's, attended P.S.51, P.S. 54, and RHHS. In 1945, because the war was on, left RHHS (age 17) to enlist in the Marine Corps, and retired from military service in 1968. Married Vita Ruccione (also from Richmond Hill) in 1950. (She passed away 6 days before 9/11). Would love to hear from the first (and best) friends I ever had.

If any of you know where I might purchase RHHS yearbooks for Jun45, Jan46, and/or Jun46, please let me know.
Added: November 26, 2006

It always amazes me how many people I run into who have roots in Richmond Hill. What a great place to grow up, a tight neighborhood of hard working people. It seemed like everybody knew each other from the churches, scouting or sports programs. I have a lot of great memories but to see the neighborhood now breaks my heart.

I'll never forget PS-51 where I started school, Carlo's pizza, Karp's, Gebhardt's bakery & Uncle Jack's toy store just to name a few. I loved going with my friend's to catch a movie at the Lefferts theatre or the Casino or go bowling at Triangle lanes. Played a lot of ball at Smokey Park too. If the neighborhood had stayed the same I would have raised my family there too. We didn't know what we had, neighborhoods like that are a disappearing thing in the city.
Added: November 8, 2006

Graduated RHHS class of 1970. Anyone from that class please contact me. Thanks
Added: November 7, 2006

GREAT SITE THANKS
Added: November 7, 2006

Stephanie: Please visit our "sister" website at:
http://www.richmondhillny.com

I have created a Richmond Hill High School Alumni Listing at:
http://www.richmondhillny.com/Schools/RHHSalumni.html
Added: October 30, 2006

Hello all,

My father, Bill Petersen, graduated in the class of 1965. I am planning his 60th surprise birthday party and using the theme "This is your Life". Is anyone out there from his class or is a long lost friend? I would love to invite you to his party and get some information from you.

I am also looking for a class list of 1965. I called the high school and they told me to look here. I would really appreciate it.
Thanks for your help
Added: October 30, 2006

There is a Gebhards in Glen Cove and I believe that is part of the same family. It is off of Glen Cove Road inside a mini mall complex. That was maybe 4 or 5 years ago and cannot confirm it is still there, but I did speak to one of them back then, looking for memorabilia, and it seems they had none.
Added: October 11, 2006

Among the show biz people from Richmond Hill was Worster Van Eps. Born in 1912 he lived at 108 St and 97th Avenue. For a stage name he took Willard Parker, after the area theaters and appeared in many films in the 40's and 50's.
Added: October 11, 2006

To Jennifer - The Gebhard Family operated the Gebhard Bakery from 1936 up until the late 1990's which was located on Jamaica Ave. & 111th St. in Richmond Hill, NY. I do not know if they have a bakery in Nassau County.
Added: October 9, 2006

Honey - I also graduated from PS 90 in l949 - January class. I still have the class photo. Were you in the January or June class? Mrs Koch was my 8th grade teacher. I graduated Jan. 1953 from RHHS.
Added: October 9, 2006

I am looking for a bakery that was on Jamaica Avenue, called Gebhart's bakery. My grandfather used to take me there when I was young. They had the best rye bread. I heard that they have a bakery out in Nassau County. Could someone let me know if they heard of it, then and now.
Added: October 9, 2006

I looked at the calendar today: October 3, 2006. Can it possibly be 55 years ago today that Bobby Thomson hit the homerun off Ralph Branca??

Yep, that's correct. Where were you that day? Well, when I got home from St. Benedict Joseph Labre that day, we didn't have a TV set, yet. But, around the corner from my house was a sweet young girl, Carol Langton. Her family had a TV, she knew I was a Dodger fan, and she invited me in to watch the show!!

When the Dodgers pulled ahead in the 8th or 9th inning, we celebrated!! Oh, how we cried after the bottom of the ninth. We stayed friends through the fifties. She was my first date at a dance at her high school (Dominican Commercial) in Oct. 1954.

We even ended up being married the same day at SBJL in Dec. 1962, although to different people.

If I had known what I know now, maybe I wouldn't have treated her so cavalierly in the middle 1950's and my life would have been a lot better.
Added: October 3, 2006

what? Dutch houses in Brooklyn? what a great idea for a lecture! good work RH Historical Society! wish I could be there! those who live there should go to that lecture on 7 October. anything to do with Dutch New York is something I am truly interested in. hey, I'm a Dutchie myself, my Mom is a Snedeker. we've been on the Island since the time of Old Pegleg himself (Petrus Stuyvesant).
Added: September 13, 2006

Reply to Richard Reichard and Honey: Thank you! I lived on 107th St bet Jamaica Ave/86th and graduated Holy Child Jesus Jan. 1956. Anyone else out there from HCJ class of Jan. '56??
Added: August 31, 2006

Yes Eileen, I remember ALL these places you named. I lived on Jamaica Ave. and 113th St from 1943 until 1953 and my family still lived there until 1960. What years are you talking about and what schools did you go to??? I went to PS90. and graduated from there in 1949.
Added: August 30, 2006

Yes Eileen, I do. I lived on 109th Street. Where did you live? What school did you attend?
Added: August 25, 2006

Anyone remember: Rainbow Bar 106/Jamaica Ave - Connie's Restaurant 108/Jamaica Ave - Kuntz Paint Store 110 St - Poppie's 110th St - Terry's Luncheonette (Walk-Away-Sundae) 108th St - Corde's Ice Cream Parlor 107 St - Teitelbaum's Hardware 108 St - Miles Shoes 114 St - Thoet's Dresses 117 St - The Inn at 116th St ?
Added: August 24, 2006

I have been searching for a Family member for years... Did any one know Antionette Di Sipio she lived at 86-21 123st., Richmond Hill... if living she would be in her 80s, her dad was Rocco Di Sipio, he was killed by a car while crossing the street where he lived in 1923, any info would help... Thanks Richard
Added: July 26, 2006

Looking for classmates from PS 90 in the early sixties. Specifically, students from Mr. Zimmler's or Mrs. Wilson's classes. This group spent three years together in all of the same classes.
Added: July 26, 2006

any info on lenny tusa would be appreciated
Added: July 25, 2006

We have a growing list of noteworthy people from Richmond Hill which can be found here
Added: July 25, 2006

Would like to compile list of famous people who lived and or worked in RH or Ozone Park. Some athletes I know are: Phil Rizzuto, Marius Russo, Don Gault (Clev Browns), Eddie Yost - Wash Senator and Mets coach, Entertainment: Rodney Dangerfield, Jack Lord, Dick Van Patten, Chris Cimino (Ch 4 Weatherman), Steve Cangelosi MSG, Government: Abe Beame. I know there are lots more. Might be an intersting topic.
Added: July 25, 2006

I stumbled upon this site by accident. I hardly use the computer. It brought back such memories of growing up in Richmond Hill. I went to OLPH during the 70's. Reading all of the memories made me smile. Nothing was as good as smelling LOFTs as you walked up Liberty Ave. and 120 St. I to remember Annalee Sanita. That was the only name I recognized. I need to tell more people about this site. Maybe I will hear from some of my old classmates (OLPH '70).
Added: July 24, 2006

Hi Frank Mignone!
Yes I remember you because I also worked for the LI Press at the same district office as you (113th St. & 101st Ave.) I remember that you had the best Paper Route (and most profitable) in the office, and if I am not mistaken you somehow inherited it. Your route was so big it actually went as far as Myrtle Ave. but you decided to break it down and my best friend Louis Ponte began delivering on 111th St. from Jamaica Ave. to Myrtle Ave. and a bit on 86th Ave.
My route was on 116th and 117th Streets from 101st Ave. to Liberty Ave. It also included 103rd Ave. between 116th and 117th Sts. We had great times! Who could ever forget our infamous Manager, Joe "Filthy" Flynn. The early Sunday Morning inserts, and more...
Bob Antonelli was another good friend who lived on your block. I will email you to jog your memory a bit more!
Added: July 11, 2006

Richmond Hill 11418, for me I lived at 91-16 111th Street from 1956 to 1976. It was the golden times for Richmond Hill. I delivered the Long Island Press from 1964 through 1968 my route was 111th Street from Jamacia Ave to 101st Ave. It taught me lessons for life that guided me through a career. I have been very blessed, with many children and grand children and some passions for life that I am able to pursue and share. But today I was drawn to memories of my youth gone, but not forgotten. I graduated from HCJ 1964, and Bishop Loughlin 1968. I was the kid in the class that ranked 72nd out of 76 kids in HCJ. Hung out at PONCE pizza on 114th Street. If any one remembers those times or me please Email I would like to know how things turned out for you.
Added: July 11, 2006

no place like home! (RH)
Added: July 8, 2006

does anyone remember anyone by the name of Lizzie Harrington? She owned a bar I believe. I couldn't say where it was, but my Grandmother, Margaret Reilly used to work for her.
Added: June 25, 2006

Seeking former HCJ classmates from the Class of 1963. We are having a reunion this Summer, in August, on LI. Please contact me for more information.
Added: June 9, 2006

Anyone out there from SBJL class of '76??? RH was the best growing up - Good Times!
Added: May 31, 2006

In the past year through this website I've found a half-dozen Holy Child Jesus classmates (1959) and would enjoy talking with others. Anyone know where Michael Castellano is? Tell him to be in touch -- Alice Blake, Angie Ianiello, Carl Palminteri, Bruce Claro, Carol Gibson we've been wondering about you. I also have our 4B HCJ class photo with Sr. St. Lucy; if you were a classmate e-mail me, I'll send it to you. Linda
Added: May 31, 2006

My oldest daughter found this site and just emailed me. Have spent the better part of the day scanning through the most recent posts. I attended P.S. 90 and RHHS, and on to Queens College. Then taught at P.S. 108 for 7 years.
Found several familiar names. Brought back so many good memories of my earlier years. Thanks to all. It is too that general area of south Queens no longer has seems to have any of those great establishments mentioned - but they do bring back so many good memories. Thanks.
Added: May 31, 2006

I lived in Ozone Park all my life and it was and is a great place to live and work. I went to St. Mary Gate of Heaven school, & Richmond hill HS. Graduated 1974, went to Queensboro Community College.
I own a print shop on 101 Ave & 101 St called OZONE PRESS COMPANY. And i also am a realtor. The meld of people in this community is still very nice after all our parents were also immigrants. I still think this is the greatest community in the world and where i live now in oceanside it is also a great place to live.
Added: May 31, 2006

I grew up in Richmond Hill from 1963-1976, lived on 91st Ave between 107th and 104th Sts. Went to P.S.90 1963-1965, spent 7th/8th grade at #119 (then called J.H.S.119) Glendale, then graduated St.Michael HS Brooklyn in 1971. Married at Holy Child R.C. church by Fr. Moore. My sister Debbie is 4 years younger than I am (she lives in a suburb of Albany, NY).
I remember Roy's grocery on the corner of 104th St and 91st Ave. I can't count the times my mom would tell us, "I need you to go to Roy's and get some milk"! And Bill's candy store right next door. Lipschutz stationers where we got our school supplies. "The Palace" women's clothes store. The bakery at 111th St and Jamaica Ave where we'd always stop after Mass to bring home something great. That bakery had the best butter cookies -- I've never found any bakery to top them since (and I've tried!) Steve's Pizzeria also near 111th. Taking the bus that ran along Jamaica Ave into Jamaica to shop at Gertz and Goodwin's!
I learned to drive by driving through Forest Park back and forth, coming out at the Brooklyn entrance and driving back again. People used to sit on their stoops on summer evenings which provided for a nice sense of community.
The last time I was in Queens at all was when my parents sold their house in 1991. It was the wierdest feeling when I was in that house for what I knew was the last time.
I'd love to hear from any old friends.
Added: May 29, 2006

I never lived in Richmand Hill, but I went there for Jahn's ice cream, then they opened up in Brooklyn, can anyone tell me if they really do exist anymore. I would like some information about them. Like location, and any phone #'s. I lived in Brooklyn in the South Brooklyn section, and in Canarsie, then last in Bensonhurst. Now retired to Florida. Thank you for your help. Gloria
Added: May 27, 2006

oh, my! stay away from the Indians? gee, we never had any problems with Indians, we even married them! LOL Jonn, who is part Shinnecock, and totally intrigued.
Added: May 26, 2006

HEY EVERYONE!!! Come march with the Richmond Hill Historical Society on Sunday, May 28 at 12 pm to march down Metropolitan Avenue... bring your kids, friends and family!!! Meet us at Ascan and Metropolitan Avenues about a quarter to 12!! Hope to see you!!! Nancy
Added: May 26, 2006

I was born in Flushing, but lived in Richmond Hill at 90-06 102nd street from 1982 - 1984. I really loved the neighborhood. I am searching for information on my husband and my grandmother's family (both from Italy), came across your website, so stopped for a visit. I enjoy reading everyone's entries. It brings back memories for me too.
Added: May 25, 2006

So happy to find this site. Hellow to all my old friends from 116th st & 103rd ave. I left the area back in '77 with my husband and three sons (Vince, Dan and Mikey) for Texas, and have lost touch with just about everyone except family. Remember the fun we had - handball against the A&P wall with the Tittman kids, stickball on 116th with Frankie Renda, Carl DiRamondo, Dan & Pat Manning, any my sister Peggy. Noreen Early's baseball card collection (probably worth a million bucks now). We used to put the cards on our Schwins with clothespins to make noise like a motorcycle.
We made go-carts out of old baby carriages and raced them down the block; going to the top of the hill in Forest Park and racing down the hill and then crossing Myrtle Ave. hoping no cars were coming, down 88th St., crossing Jamica Ave., down past Atlantic Ave., until finally getting somewhere near home?
Hi to all my friends from St. Bennie's - Ireen Coleman, Dawn Solano, Linda Wetzel, Eddie McCann, Marty Peshler, Johnny Curtain, Peggy, Julie, Mary and Cathy Tittman; who can forget Sister John Edmond??? (scary memory), your first confession???; stations of the cross; saying the mass in Latin; kitchen sinks at Jahn's; taking the train to Rockaway beach; Smokey park; Carvel.
I worked at Key Food on Liberty Ave. during high school, and then went to "Nancy Taylor Finishing School" after high school. Worked for ITT in NYC for 9 years and headed to Texas.
Hi to all my fellow graduates from John Adams - Ann and Lucille Yockman, Steve Dandrilli, Bill Elgin, many many more names.
Now living in Jersey City - hope to hear from some or all of you...
Added: May 24, 2006

I lived on 124 Street 97 Avenue. We had some great times.
Added: May 24, 2006

Was delighted to stumble upon your maps: When my grandmother was a little girl, she'd go visit family out in Riverhead circa 1870s. She was warned not to go near the River (Peconic) because of the indians who lived near there. When doing family research I thought at first the indians were the Shinnecocks; then I heard about the Corchaugs and no one could seem to pinpoint which tribe. Your map solved it all. Thanks!!
Added: May 20, 2006

I'm doing my family tree and need information on a Mrs. Jessie Fox. She lived in Richmond Hill. She had a son Christian Fox. She was born in Newton NJ on 1885 and hear she died in Richmond Hill.
Added: May 20, 2006

Hi! My mother, Dorothy Pizzo worked for Beneficial on Liberty Ave. from the late 60's to '93 when she retired. She passed away in '96. Although I grew up next door in s.o.p., as kids we always were on Liberty Ave. I remember the Leffert's and Casino movie theaters, Karp's and Winter's ice cream parlours, Woolworth's, St. John's Rest. Al's stereo bar, Tony's floor covering, Uncle Jacks, Carlos and Tommy's Pizza, pilots / flight attendant's on the Q-10, the list goes on and on... Anyone remember my mom?
Added: May 19, 2006

I am trying to locate my cousin Larry Marks. He lived with our grandparents, named Shapiro on 102nd st corner of 97 th ave. Ozone Park. He went to P.S. 58 for a few yrs. Lived there around late 40.s early 50's. Last I heard he went to Florida to live with his fater. Anyone having any iformation please e-mail me.
Added: May 17, 2006

I'd like to learn more about the Indo-Caribbean community in Richmond Hill and the development of 'Little Guyana' on Liberty Avenue. Does your society have any relevant information to share? I was also wondering where I can get a good street map of Richmond Hill?
Added: May 15, 2006

I'm one of the south Richmond Hill "border" people. Grew up on 107th Ave. & 133rd St from 1939 to 1961. PS 121 and St. Teresa were my educational and religous prime movers. I miss that neighborhood every day of my life. The Lefferts movie theatre, Nick's ice cream parlor, The Casino movie theater (25cents for two movies and 10 cartoons), Tunnicks Dept. Store. Liberty Avenue from Watts Drug store at Van Wyck Blvd. to O solo mio Restaurant under the ell is a street that will never die in my mind. John Gray, Ronald Pugliese, Anthony Neri, Ronald Panzarella Ray and Duog Horn, friends who will never die in my mind. The "Hill" taught us everything we needed to know about life. What we did with that knowledge was up to us.
Added: May 12, 2006

I am doing genealogy research on family. My grandfather, Thomas M. O'Donnell's obituary dated 4/17/58 states his funeral mass was held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Richmond Hill. He is buried at Holy Cross Cementary in Brooklyn. His wife's maiden name was Mary Ellen Stinsman. He was born in Brooklyn, NY and lived approximately 35 years in Ozone Park. My grandfather retired from the Fire Department. He served with engine companies 268 in Bay Ridge, 225 in East New York, and 278 in Rockaway Park. He and Mary had two sons, Thomas E. and Raymond M. After retiring from the Fire Department he moved to Pompano Beach, Florida. If any of this sounds familiar, please contact me at karyn540@yahoo.com
Added: May 8, 2006

I lived and grew up in South Richmond Hill between 85' and 05' i went to P.S.100 and to RHHS, OMG i love that neighborhood so much I still have all my friends there which is like family to me... i moved to MN because my father and I got better jobs, but my heart is in south richmond hill, NY... im going to start going every summer to never forget y roots. GREAT SITE!!!!!!!
Added: May 7, 2006

Looking to locate past neighbors in Richmond Hill, Josephine Ferretti, RoseMarie Merante, Richie Coccia, Mary Hickey, Charlie Rome, Marie Masone, Dolores Belfiore. All Gate of Heaven classmates. Clas of 1949.
Added: May 7, 2006

What great memories, thank you all!
From the early 60's up until 1995, my parents opened and operated Ben's Army and Navy at 116-12 Liberty ave, in the heart of our favorite shopping district. Im sure many will recall my mother who ran the store when my dad died in 1990. My mother who retired at age 80 will be 90 on May 16th. I cant wait to show her this site! Jay
Added: May 6, 2006

I loved the pictures of the streets and you have done a wonderful job. My grandmother used to live at 87-46 110th st and I spent many happy summers there. She was from Germany and lived there in the late 20's and through 1940. I would love to know if the house is still there. I also rode the carousel in Florest Park. Thank you.
Added: May 6, 2006

South Richmond Hill... Don't forget Jack Cassidy (father of David, husband of Shirley Jones) who lived on 97th Ave at about 130th Street... Near the old wooden building that had once been a public school, but in the early 50's was used as the Dept of Sanitation District Office. Don't forget the swimming pool-beach club on the southeast corner of Van Wyck and Jerome Avenue... closed in the early 50's--probably a victim of the polio scares of those summers. The Vita bread bakery on Jerome and 131 St. where they baked Rye bread. Playing in the yard of PS 55 you couldn't breathe in those wonderful aromas fast enough!! I lived on 120th St. between Jerome and 97th, there was someone who lived on 120 between 97th and 95th who had a single engine Piper Cub parked on the side of his house for months in 1953 or 1954---What a site!
By the way, I have always assumed that Jerome Avenue was named after Mr. Belmont Jerome a rather famous entrepreneur responsible for Belmont racetrack and subway construction at the end of the 19th century, beginning of the 20th century. But, does anyone know who Kimball was?? We never referred to 103 Avenue as anything but Kimball Ave.
Added: May 5, 2006

To the young lady emailing aboout South Richmond Hill. Much of the history is dated to parts of South Richmond Hill, parts once called Morris Park and Clarenceville. We here at the historical society have recently been working on the hisitorical street markers for Saint Benedict Joseph Labre Church and The 102 Precinct. There will be others as well. We just had a lecture about Jack Kerouac, the beat generation author, who lived on 134th street south of Atlantic. Percy Crosby, the cartoonist of SKIPPY... lived also south of Atlantic in the 120's. There is much rich history all around you. There is also a huge effort to rezone the area, which will curtail the demolition of those victorian beauties we have been losing. Le us not forget EAST Richmond Hill as well... where the GREBE Radio factory was the starting point of WCBS Radio... at Jamaica Avenue and 134th Street.We have to save this neighborhood... once it is gone, there is no going back.We have lost so much already.
Added: May 3, 2006

This really is a wonderful site. I was always interested in learning more about my neighborhood, and this site has definitely helped. Yet I can't help but notice that there are so few places mentioned here about where I live, SOUTH Richmond Hill. This is probably because the houses are all relatively either 100 years or newer, but I'm sure there are more places then are mentioned in this site. Liberty Avenue (although sadly dilapidated today) has been around for years, and I'm sure that whenever the railroad was built there, businesses must've started to crop up if they hadn't been there already. I guess I'd like to see if anyone out there who's lived beyond my 18 years knows of any historic things that happened in this section of the neighborhood.
Added: April 30, 2006

We lived on 113th St between 101st and 103rd Ave. from 1962-1984. Graduated RHHS 1965... looking for old classmates... trying to get another copy of Class '65 yearbook. My copy dissapeared in my many moves. Keep me posted for class reunions... now living in Georgia. Transferred in 1984 with Sabena Airlines. Yes Richmond Hill was great in the 60-70's. Haven't been back in 15 years.
Added: April 30, 2006

What a trip back in time. As a Bklyn born child of southern parents, our move to RH was due to my attending better schools. Good choice. We first lived in an apt. house on 102nd St. near Jamaica Ave. Finding a ground floor apt. with a backyard, 102-16 Park Lane S. was a miracle. I had begun at PS 66 in 1940 and went there all six years. My next door neighbor and I thought we owned Forest Park and the playground that was built at the end of Freedom Drive during those years. Miss Ebbs was my 1A teacher. Miss LeViness, the principal. The Park Lane House was sold and we moved to 9103 107th St. By that time there was a severe housing shortage and we only had 1/2 of the first floor with our kitchen improvised in the basement. Another house sale and we moved accross the street to 90-18 107th. also occupying only half of the ground floor. 7A-8B was at PS 90 and my graduation picture reads 1948. On to RHHS annex for a year, then I attended the main HS for 2 yrs. My senior year was in Marion SC where I graduated.
Added: April 29, 2006

I grew up and lived in Richmond Hill from 1985-2005, I lived in 109 St between Jamaica and Atlantic Ave. I went to PS 90, Holy Child Jesus School and Dominican Commercial HS where I was part of the last class to graduate before the school closed in 1998. I now live in Woodhaven but RH holds many great memories for me.
Added: April 29, 2006

Loved all comments about Winther's on 111th St and Liberty Ave. My Dad was the owner... Charles Winther. I worked there on Easters putting the bows on the chocolate Bunnies. Please contact me with your memories.
Added: April 28, 2006

Great reference. My granduncle, Walter A Ames, and grandaunt, Emma E Ames, lived there at 10122 111th St during the 1920s and 1930s. I will be using your site to do more research in the area. Thanks.
Added: April 28, 2006

Richmond Hill House and Garden Tour 2006 - Sunday, May 21, 2006

You are invited to participate in the Eighth House and Garden Tour sponsored by the Richmond Hill Chapter of the Friends of the Queens Library on Sunday, May 21, 2006. This is the Friends' major fundraiser each year. Proceeds from the Tour supplement existing and fund new services and programs at the local branch.

Six residences will be open to the public between the hours of 12 noon and 4 pm. The tour is self-guided and ticket holders can visit any or all of the homes at their own leisure. You will see beautifully preserved, meticulously restored or tastefully updated exteriors and interiors as well as private gardens in Spring bloom. You will enjoy majestic staircases, stained glass windows, ornate fireplace mantels, pocket doors, inlaid floors, rare bluestone sidewalks, period antiques and furnishings and eclectic personal art collections.

Most homes are within a moderate walking distance of each other while one is in Glendale but easily reachable by car of Q55 Myrtle Avenue bus. Ticket holders will receive a guidebook with the location and description and of each house accompanied by a sketch by Richmond Hill architect Ivan Mrakovcic.

Tickets are $15 each if purchased in advance and $20 on the day of the tour at the local branch. Tickets can now be obtained at the Richmond Hill Branch located at 118-14 Hillside Avenue, Richmond Hill NY 11418 during regular business hours and also on the day of tour.

Ticket mail orders are also now being accepted. Make your checks payable to Queens Library and mail your order to:

House and Garden Tour
c/o 86-39 108th Street
Richmond Hill, NY 11418

Please indicate the number of tickets being ordered and the guidebooks will be mailed about a week before the tour date.

Light refreshments and bathroom facilities will also be available at the branch library during tour hours.

Even further information can be found at FRHL Website
Philip Skabeikis, For the Friends of the Richmond Hill Library
Added: April 27, 2006

lived on 109th st. between Liberty and 103rd. Anybody go to P.S 108, late 50's early 60's, than 202 than John Adams?
Added: April 27, 2006

Hi: I am looking for anyone who may have known my mom. Her name Anna Maria Weifert. She lived at Ottilie Home for Children most of her life. I have documents that indicate she attended Jamaica Vocational High School, 162-02 Hillside Ave. Jamaica. It's weird though cause "Richmond Hill" is scratched out and "Jamaica" written in. Also there are some names of her friends: Mary Fraser, Barbara Kuech, Rose Kuech, and Virginia Hoetger... Any info would be greatly appreciated. Photos especially. Thanks for your time. You may email me back at: Tara.Wuytack@grainger.com
Added: April 24, 2006

To Robert Tricaro: Yes, 107th Avenue is indeed part of Richmond Hill, NY as you have stated in your comment. The maps that are shown on the Richmond Hill Historical Society website depicts Richmond Hill at its earliest founding and development which did not originally go as far south to 107th Avenue. However over time Richmond Hill expanded and now extends to the north of 109th Avenue. Our "sister site", richmondhillny.com, has a more comprehensive map that shows the boundaries of Richmond Hill.
Click here for a pop-up window displaying map of Richmond Hill boundaries. Since the time I created this map for the website (1997) the boundaries are already changing near the border of Kew Gardens and Richmond Hill due to real estate prices.
Added: April 23, 2006

I grew up in a house located on 118 Street and 107 Ave. Our post office address was Richmond Hill, 18 NY. According to the maps on this website, we lived close to, but not in Richmond Hill. I understood that the reason I had to attend John Adams High was that "the Hill" was for kids living north of Atlantic Ave. In spite of a long walk to the RKO Keiths and to Jahn's next door, we believed we lived within the Richmond Hill boundaries. What's up?
Added: April 23, 2006

As everyone has said, this is a "GREAT SITE"! I grew up on 106th street and graduated from HCJ in 1967. I hung out in Forest Park with the Manzo's, Jimmy Loughlin, Jackie Maple, Nicie Massiamino, the Poelker's (Ox, Dick & Mike) Steve Casse, Vinnie Schellhorn, the Finnerann's, Jimmy Moratta, Dennis Doyle and many others who came and went. Played a lot of B-Ball, Football, stickball, sledding and skate boarding down snake hill by the monument. On Friday's Lentini's Deli used to make Pizza. Mrs Lentini would cut you a slice with a big pair of scissors. We had a lot of laughs at the Park and as we got older we moved onto Glen's with Uncle Ralph and Regents Row with Billy and Fred. Does anyone know of any reunions at HCJ or the Park?
Added: April 20, 2006

What a heartwarmer to stumble across this site.Seminarian named Jim Lisante & I created the Teen Drama Club at HCJ. We worked very hard on this project - but was incredibly rewarded each 13th summer by the teen team effort that cared about the production they spent on their summers. Anyone around for those 13 yrs. please know that MSGR Jim is celebrating his 25th Anniversary this coming Sunday April 30 with a mass at St. Thomas in W. Hempstead. Thank you all! I trust you are all well embracing our past days
Added: April 20, 2006

Hi everyone, great memories. Lived in RH until i was 11 and still miss it now! I went to P.S.62, best friend was Richard Petrowski. Cousins lived on 115th street (the cannalongas). I will be 39 years old this year.
Added: April 17, 2006

Hello all... I was born and raised (for the most part) in Kew Gardens, Qns... A couple of years ago, I found this site and entered a posting in the Guestbook; and haven't had a response... yet... So, I'll throw out some names and see if SOMEone out there remembers any of these people and IF so, please contact me... The Donaghy siblings (their mothers name was Olga) - Debbie, Jon & Henry (aka: Hank) & John (or Jon) Conde... I'm especially looking for information on or about John Conde and/or his family... ie: does he have siblings, is he married with children, does he live in NY... ect... Any information is better than none... so please, don't hesitate to contact me... My mother, Debbie, more than likely would have gone to RHHS in the late 60's and John Conde may have been a student there as well, only earlier... I am a patient optimist... and I know someone, somewhere who is reading this post, knows of one or more of the people I've mentioned... All you need do is click on my email address and voila, let your fingers do the walking as your memories guide the way... Thanking you in advance, Regards, B. M. Donaghy
Added: April 16, 2006

I hope someone who attended SBJ remembers Francis Delehanty, his sister Ellen and their brother Malachy. They and Charles and Walter Hillick (lived across the street from SBJ) and Donald Edwards and his sister Mary went to SBJ also. Would love to get in touch with them. I lived at 94-31 116th Street until we moved away when I was 6. I still miss the old neighborhood and those childhood friends.
Added: April 15, 2006

I grew in Richmond Hill - graduated HCJ in 1967. Same class as Rich Reichard. Rich you did not include an email address! Love this site. Brought back many old memories. I still come home to visit at least once or twice a year to visit family and walk through the old "hood".
Added: April 14, 2006

Grew up in Woodhaven. Many friends and good times in Richmond Hill.
Added: April 13, 2006

Furci's the catering hall on atlantic ave. & 111 st. was originally on atlantic ave and crescent st. There was a neon sign showing a race car. The reason was that andy furci raced at dexter park back in the 50's. The one on 111th and the one on crescent st. was the same family. The one on crescent st. was great for "football weddings".
Added: April 13, 2006

Hello everyone. This a great website that my brother Frank stumbled across. We left NY in '86 and have become diconnected with "the old neighborhood. It's great to hear everyone's comments. Buried memories are recovered. Graduated from PS 62, JHS 226, and finally RHHS in '85. Cindy... I believe we graduated together in 85. Please write back...
Added: April 10, 2006

Regarding Furci's resturaunt on 111 Street and Atlantic Avenue, does any one remember Alice Furci, who I believe was related to the owners of that resturaunt. She attended Richmond Hill high school in the early 60's and had friends named Susan Taylor and Lynn O'Connor, who also attended Richmond Hill.
Added: April 7, 2006

I am interested in any photos or post cards of PS66 to put together for a history display of the school
Added: April 5, 2006

I lived in Richmond Hill until 1992. Graduated from HCJ in 1967. Still in contact with a number of people from the neighborhood, Steve and Marylou Lorper, Ellen and Janice Manzo, Anne Kelly, Charlie Pericais and Steve Shapllo.
Added: April 4, 2006

HI i am from ozone park i still live here 87th street by 88th street park & 95th ave my mom & dad took care of the pool room rack em up on 102 street& jamaica ave richmond hill this is great to hear about the old times.
Added: April 4, 2006

furci's is on 101 ave and 102 st opposite st mary gate of heaven church. still makes good meat bread. its also makes good italian food.
Added: April 2, 2006

TO C. MAROTTA, THERE WAS A RESTAURANT "FURCI'S" ON ATLANTIC AVE. AND 111TH ST. AND THEY MIGHT HAVE HAD A BAKERY SECTION. I THINK IT IS NOW A CATERING HALL. AS AN AFTERTHOUGHT, I THINK THERE WAS A "FURCI'S" BAKERY ELSEWHERE NEARBY. ED
Added: March 30, 2006

can anybody help me find a bakery called Furci's... I am not 100% sure of the name... My father used to get the most amazing meat bread with hot vinegar peppers... If you know the bakery i am talking about please write back... Thank you
Added: March 29, 2006

Does anybody currently live in North Richmond Hill that can give some input into what it is like to live in the neighborhood? I am considering purchasing a home and am interested in finding out about the schools in the area are like. Also, what is the fastest mode of public transportation into midtown? Is it safe to take the J&Z subways from Jamaica? Thanks!
Added: February 21, 2006