LEEDS — The Leeds Historical Society invites everyone with memories of Leeds in days gone by to a series of informal gatherings to reminisce about what life was like in their part of town. The programs will center around the town’s various neighborhoods. South Leeds, Curtis Corner, Quaker Ridge, Leeds Center, West Leeds and North Leeds all had their own unique personalities.

The first of these gatherings will focus on the south end of Leeds, including Leeds Junction, Curtis Corner and Quaker Ridge and will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 15, in the vestry at the Leeds Community Church, at 123 Church Hill Road.

What do you remember about living in the south end of Leeds? Where did you shop? Where did you play? Where did you go to school? Everyone has some memories, and we hope they’ll come and share them with both old and new friends and neighbors.

Stores often defined the neighborhoods, and many were also post offices and railroad stations. Leeds boasted the Red Roof in the south of town, the store at Curtis Corner and Parker’s store on Quaker Ridge. They were key community establishments, along with the church and school.

Did you stop at Charlie Dorion’s store on your way to or from school? Did you catch the train in Leeds Junction to go “the city” for a day of shopping or work? Does anyone remember Parker’s store on Quaker Ridge?

For some, the store plays only a minor role in their memories, and it’s the church or Grange that sticks out in their mind. It might be the summer afternoons when all the kids in the neighborhood met to play ball in a field, or walking through the woods to go to school. Maybe it’s the first radio in town, or the boy who used to give you rides in his jalopy. Whatever the memories, we hope you’ll join us to share stories of your neighborhood.

People are encouraged to bring photographs and other memorabilia to share during the program. The programs are free and open to anyone, no matter what part of town they called home. Light refreshments will be served.

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