For some people the sight of a robin is a first sign of spring. For me, spring means a walk in the sunshine with a stop at the corner store for the first chocolate Popsicle of the season! When I grew up, my neighbourhood store was run by the Knibbs family on North Harold Street. After we moved, the corner store I remember was Nelson’s at the corner of Franklin and Walsh Streets. Nelson’s was replaced by the Cow Palace and today, the store continues to sell Popsicles and other treats as Alley’s Variety.
With changing times, many corner stores have transitioned from businesses to residences but take a drive or a walk around Thunder Bay and you’ll still find locally-owned corner stores including the ones featured here: Alley’s Variety, Brent Park Store, Mrs. L’s, Blackfoot Baits and Variety, Mets, and the Commissary. Stop in at your local corner store and check out the shelves. They may sell more than the penny candy you remember!
