WESTFIELD-Photographs of everyday life can bring back a smile – and fond memories – and a Facebook page that now has more than 5,000 local members delivers on that promise.
The Facebook page, “You’re From Westfield, Mass., If You Remember,” was created by Warren Holmes several years ago and after his retirement, Ken Stomski assumed the reins as administrator.
Ken Stomski serves as administrator for the Facebook page, “You’re From Westfield, Mass., If You Remember…”
“This group was originally created to appreciate memories of Westfield of yesteryear,” said Stomski. “A lot of people have been reunited through this group.”
Stomski initially became involved with the Facebook page as a member, sharing memories of Westfield’s past.
“When Warren decided to retire he asked the members if anyone would like to take over the administrative duties,” said Stomski. “There were several takers, but I was chosen due to my experience with Facebook and my love of Westfield, both now and of our history.”
Stomski noted the city’s history is important to him because “we need to remember where we came from. It is great to see how we have advanced, but we need to remember our roots.”
For anyone under 30, an empty lot downtown is their only recollection where the PVTA pavilion is now being built, according to Stomski.
Westfield in 1890.
“I remember JJ Newberry’s being there,” he said. “There are many people who are members of our group who were around who remember the Flood of 1955. Also, there was a canal that went thru downtown Westfield. You will find that out as you go over some of the posts in our group.”
On any given day, a wide variety of photographs, recollections and questions abound which allows anyone to take a trip down memory lane – and perhaps solve a mystery or two.
Paving and watering in Westfield.
“There is a wealth of information that has been posted in this group,” said Stomski. “You can search for ‘Knight Club Soda,’ ‘Davio’s,’ ‘Professional Building Fire,’ or ‘Building 451’ or any other thing you are looking for. If it has been posted in the forum, you will see the responses.”
Two local residents who enjoy sharing Westfield’s past with followers include Danny Nason and Kathleen Palmer.
“I love the Westfield Facebook page,” said Palmer. “Everyone loves to look back into their own times as well as seeing what Westfield looked like back in ‘them there days.’”
Rialto Theater on Elm Street, 1927.
Palmer added the Facebook page is a perfect way to engage in conversation on subjects close to home, as well as share photographs.
“Preserving and sharing stories makes the Facebook page a living history that people of all ages can enjoy,” said Palmer.
Nason, a city resident since 1959, concurred.
“The Facebook page is a wonderful place to bring history to people’s attention, and remember things that I’d forgotten about my childhood,” said Nason. “It’s one thing to read about Westfield’s history but quite another to hear someone’s first-hand experience.”
Westfield Green, 1930.
Nason added that because he “enjoys” Westfield’s history so much he is now on the Westfield Historical Commission.
“Getting the word out about Westfield’s history and helping to preserve it is one of my passions,” said Nason.
Stomski noted that the Facebook group does not allow advertisements unless they are for public events hosted by the city or a nonprofit civic group. Lost pet postings, however, are permissible.
“There is no conversation of current events or politics allowed,” said Stomski, adding, “There are several other Westfield Facebook groups for that.”
Children watching men work in the city, 1892.
What has also been a boon to the Facebook page are the reconnections that members have made, according to Palmer.
“Suddenly finding old schoolmates or neighbors that they haven’t heard from in years is an additional attraction to the Facebook page,” said Palmer. “Young or old, we love connections and we all love to say, ‘Hey remember when …’”
