A limited-edition print by a local artist depicts a Bethesda intersection that was the focal point of our town for much of the 20th century. "You Were Mine at the Time" renders the crossroads of Wisconsin Avenue, Old Georgetown Road and East-West Highway as they appeared in 1962. Rockville native Houston Hancock brings Hot Shoppes, People's Drug, the Bank of Bethesda and Pumphrey's Funeral Home to life in pastel hues.
From its opening through the 1980s, Hot Shoppes was the gathering place to see and be seen. By the 1990s, the Bethesda Metro Center - which replaced People's Drug and other properties - became the urban nexus where commuters started and ended their day, where families and couples twirled on the ice rink (R.I.P.), where burger lovers could buy a flame-grilled Whopper for lunch (...also R.I.P.), and where events ranging from July 4th fireworks to Christmas tree lightings were held (...you get the idea).
The historic art deco Bethesda Theatre, and even the tower of the Bethesda Naval Hospital (now Walter Reed National Military Medical Center), can be seen in the distance. Period vehicles navigate the streets, along with pedestrians who are - let's be honest - more nattily-dressed than they would be in 2024. The print is #12 of only 500 produced, and is for sale on eBay for $125. I can smell the Mighty Mo - and the leaded gasoline fumes - from here!
