STREETS: In our trip down Bradford’s memory lane — through The Era’s microfilm anyway — we discovered some historical facts about local streets.

In October 1890, the City of Bradford was accepting proposals for brick paving of Pine Street.

“Sealed bid proposals will be received at the office of the city clerk, Bradford until noon Oct. 6, 1890, for furnishing all material and labor and constructing about 1000 square yards of vitrified brick street pavement on Pine street in the city of Bradford. Jas. A. Lindsey, city clerk; F.W. Dalrymple, city engineer.”

On Oct. 2, 1890, the folks at The Era were seemingly unimpressed with the length of time a bridge project was taking.

“The work on the Main street bridge is not progressing very rapidly. There are but a few men employed and they do not seem to be in a hurry. In the meantime the public can wait.”

On Oct. 7, there was an update on yet another construction project.

“The old bridge over the East branch on lower Main street has been removed, and the stone abutments have been made ready for the iron superstructure that will soon be placed in position.”

And just two days later, more progress was noted on the bridge.

“Word has been received that the iron work for the Main street bridge has been shipped. As soon as it arrives it will be put up,” read a small item in the Oct. 9, 1890 Era.

An update was given regarding a paving project on Mechanic Street as well.

“The Mechanic street paving can now be said to be entirely completed. The last bricks were laid yesterday afternoon and the two fine crosswalks at the head of the street were finished. The paving has been continued to the north line of School street and covers the entire space directly in front of Mr. B.F. Hazelton’s new residence.”

Hazelton was the owner of several sawmills, including two in what would become Hazel Hurst in McKean County.