The Verona Gardens, named for the colorful beer garden and tavern that once stood on the property is now parking for residents of Plum Stone Court. The stately home too is gone, but a few photographs, family lore and history remain.
The elegant house was built in 1892 by Bernard and Mary Spitzig. Mary knew the street well, as she was born in the house directly across the street! The Spring of 1916 would bring big changes to the property as it was sold to Hungarian immigrant Verona Kearns. Mrs. Kearns, her husband and daughter shared the large house with six roomers, built a small cafe and cozy beer garden adjacent to their home. The family operation continued into the 1950’s when the property again was sold.
Still retaining the name the properties began to decline both physically and by reputation. An appraisal record listed the condition of the structures as “very poor.” Alas, by the mid 1960’s The Verona Gardens had vanished. The once lively beer garden, raucous tavern and grand home were now a parking lot.
Now, sixty years later, the parking lot remains, as do the memories of The Verona Gardens.