Childhood Memories in Pasadena

Pasadena’s Sears, Roebuck and Company, 1930 (Photo courtesy of Pasadena Museum of History)

Got a bike as a Christmas present from Sears, Downtown Pasadena, giant six-story building.

By Jim Haddad

I was a little small for the bike. We fixed the pedals. It was a two-wheel bike. Maybe I was 9, but I could ride to school or downtown Pasadena.  Loved Kress’s for their toys. They had my leaden soldiers which I could put in the yard for battle. Hertels was next door. Nash across the street.

Clothing, (during the depression) was bought by my mother to be a little large for me, to grow into. But after a year or so, when they were given to my cousin, they still looked good.  I was always under watch, not to damage the clothes. The bike was great, New Departure brakes, nice saddle. My dog would follow me, tied to a rope, after I caught him. We would both keep going until he was tired. The dog loved to run. I did the family grocery shopping, riding my bicycle. I remember the day, standing in front of Van de Kamp’s behind a large crowd, had trouble getting to the display. One of the salesladies saw me and told the customers to let me in. I got everything I needed at Walnut and Lake. After that, everyone began to know me and be helpful.

James Haddad, 96, hosts the Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden, at 270 Arlington Drive in Pasadena.