Once upon a time

Vintage view - Sandy Williams' book, "Images of America - Hinsdale," describes what the central business district looked like in the 19th century. "Long, narrow 25-foot lots accommodated Hinsdale's early storefronts. Most were built of wood and some had false fronts, characteristics of retail buildings across the country before 1900. This photograph, taken in the late 1870s, shows the west side of Washington Street from First Street, looking north. None of these buildings are standing today."