My Brooklyn

Bill Ziegler (Jr)

Born Peck Memorial Hospital
Brooklyn, NY
1951

I could go on forever!

Starting on Waldorf Court, between Newkirk Plaza and Avenue H on the Brighton (now D) train, in Grandma's house, with a real attic and wrap-around porch. Attending St. Rose of Lima, where my Dad, Bill Ziegler (not Jr), and my Uncle Bobby, Aunt Edythe and Aunt Joan all attended before me.

I remember The Punch and Judy Shoestore on Foster Avenue, and Lester Wolf's Butcher, where I got my first job. Who could forget Waldell's Hobby Shop, first on Newkirk Plaza (and open through the station's extension for 10 car trains) and later moved to Cortelyou Road (I think on Argyle Street). Summers at Coney: too young to remember Luna Park, but my great-grandparents lived at 35 Prospect Park West, downstairs from Mrs. Tilyou's penthouse. Each summer I would receive treasured passes that could be exchanged for a card of script at the service gate on Surf Avenue. We would usually take the train and I can remember the first sight of the Wonder Wheel and Cyclone as the train turned through Brighton Beach and crossed Ocean Parkway. I can wax about the rides: Cyclone, Thunderbolt, Tornado. The Bobsled scared me the most; I heard there were no tracks, and it took me a long time to work up the courage to ride. Nothing was scarier, however, than the Parachute Jump. Aunt Edythe dragged me on when I was just 6 and I well remember climbing the wooden stairs (folded away when the ride started), sitting on a chair that was nothing more than two canvas straps, with only a lap belt, cinched tight across Edythe and me. Looking up was no help; the top of the ride was blocked by the empty 'chute overhead. The drop was unforgettable (to this day, at least).

Then, my first baseball game at Abbots Field (of course!). I still believe that I saw Mantle playing the outfield, but I was VERY young. I know I saw at least one Sunday double-header, and Dad and Uncle Bobby took me to a circus that involved a motorcycle on a tightrope strung across the stands, and dancing bears (I think Russian).

Thanks for bringing this back!

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