Tuesday, May 6, 2014

Our World - Neoga

Sunday Fergus and I went for a ramble through the countryside and decided to stop in Neoga for a cold drink
My mother was born out in the country near here and lived in town as a child.
The population as of the 2000 census was 1,854. Neoga was incorporated in 1856. The name Neoga means "deer" in the Indian language Kickapoo.
The first thing I noticed when I drove into town was the huge grain bins. Upon closer inspection I saw one of my favorite things—a train.
So, of course, I had to take another picture or 10.
The vacant building to the left was once Kern's Manufacturing. My mother worked there as a young woman and went back to work when I was a preschooler. They made bras or what was then known as brassieres. I applied and was actually hired when I still lived in Illinois. I made it 2 1/2 days. Sewing all day was not my cup of tea. The factory is still in Neoga, but it is housed in a brand new building on the western edge of town. 
This mural is on the north side of the old Kerns building. Since it included a train, I had to take a picture.
I saw these brightly colored posts along the edge of a parking lot. They were uneven, seemingly placed willy-nilly between the sidewalk and parking area. 
I was sad to see Short Furniture had gone out of business. My mom and dad always bought furniture there and when I bought my house here in Illinois, Most of my furniture came from there also. My dining room table and hutch were being unloaded when I was there looking for dining room furniture. I bought it without ever even seeing it set up. The hutch was exactly what I had been looking for and the color was perfect. 
There are 3 restaurants on the main street. I've never tried any of them, but would be interested in trying them sometime when Hubs has a weekend off.
Sorry to end on a sad note. The doctor's office on the left, with the green roof, is hard for me to look at or talk about. My mother's doctor was there. She had an appointment and was in her car in the parking lot when she passed away. I always feel sad when I see that building. Yet there is some comfort in knowing she passed away in the same town where she was born. Her life had come full circle.

Linking to Our World Tuesday

13 comments:

TexWisGirl said...

it's a neat old town. quaint. it is sad to see so much go out of business, though. and really sorry about your mom's passing there.

Janey and Co. said...

We see so many small towns like this...just hanging on. A bit sad. I was surprised to see the name. We have a Neoga Mountain standing above our little town in Lake City, Co...Now I know what it means! thanks.

Sorry about your Mom....I miss mine too. Janey

Cranberry Morning said...

I can see why it is tough to see that building, for every time you do, it is associated with the loss of your mom. For me, it is driving past the nursing home that makes me sad. It is also sad, but at a different level of course, that there are empty business buildings in the town in your photos. When I was a kid, I think every building on main street was occupied with a thriving business. Today many stores are empty. They've been forced out of business by many factors.

Beth said...

What a great old town. I would love to visit there. I will have to check and see how far it is from me.

marilyn said...

Definitely a 'small' town. Beautiful old structures and I am glad to hear the sewing factory is still operating there. My first employment was also in a sewing factory. We have a beautiful dinner train here...I am sure you would enjoy it, too. Sorry about your Mom...I know you miss her.

Mariodacatsmom said...

Hi, I just happened on your blog from your blog hop - the cute little "hop" picture caught my eye. I love small towns - there is something so peaceful about them. How saw for your mom to pass away in her car in front of the doctor's office. I do hope her passing was swift and pain free. Thanks for the tour of that quaint little town. Maybe sometime I'll join your blog hop.

Stephanie said...

Neat quaint town through your lens.

Annesphamily said...

Such a lovely and quaint town. I love seeing the comfort of small town lives. Sad about the furniture store. My folks had a favorite place like that at home too. Sad when the young ones sell out and take the cash and run. Always enjoy the photos and stories you share.

Unknown said...

There's so much history here and also memories. Thanks for sharing.

Hootin Anni said...

Such a bittersweet post Roan. Love the nostalgic look back in time, yet...to see where your mother passed away each time you go down the street...that must be heartbreaking.

Tanya Breese said...

oh roan...that is so sad :( i'm so sorry...i enjoyed the tour of the town and yes, full circle...

Gail Dixon said...

It's a lovely little town. I'm sorry it holds a sad memory for you in that one spot. God bless.

Rose said...

Hey, we must not live too far apart...I live near Terre Haute, Indiana!