Sanford’s brought happiness to lad

To the editor:

I always enjoy The Gazette's Time Machine articles. 'Sanford's part of state history,” published Dec. 28, was of particular interest.

In or around 1935, my mother went to work at the Linn County Courthouse, Treasurer's Office, Tax Department. Like many children in the 6- to 10-year-old range, I would get sick with a cold and stay home from school. Of course, our next door neighbor, Mrs. Dvorak kept a watchful eye on me during those times. On those days, my mother, before going to work, usually asked if she could get me something when she was downtown for lunch. And what did I say - a Big Little Book! And where would they come from? Sanford's!

Sanford's basement was loaded with Big Little Books, selling for only 10 cents each. Some of the best sellers were Tarzan, Green Hornet, Captain Midnight, Tailspin Tommy, Buck Rogers, Dan Dunn and Flash Gordon, to name a few.

Sanford's sold numerous items to both businesses and homes. However, to a young boy who said to his mother, 'I would like a Big Little Book,” the Sanford's basement gave happiness. It was a great store!

David H. Burke

Cedar Rapids