North Idaho Memories: Former Press papergirl loved growing up in Coeur d'Alene

I moved to Coeur d’Alene when I was just 6 years old, back in 1944. 

My parents didn’t have a car, so I would take my wooden wagon down to McEuen's IGA on Sherman Avenue for groceries when I was around 9. The groceries were always put on the family tab, which my parents settled weekly.

By the time I was 12, I became the first papergirl for the Coeur d’Alene Press. I worked in the circulation department. My route covered 15th to 23rd streets, both sides. Each week, I would walk from my home on 12th Street and Wallace Avenue to The Press on Second Street, then deliver papers on foot or on my bike. Collecting payment was a personal affair — every Saturday, I’d knock on each door and collect the weekly fee of 23 cents needed for the delivery of the daily paper. Even in the winter!

For a treat, I’d visit the Missouri Lunch at Second and Sherman, where Harley Hudson’s 35-cent cheeseburgers were a local favorite. Nearby, the Dream, Wilma and Roxy theaters showcased cowboy movies like "Cisco Kid." Roy Rogers and Gene Autry were among the stars I liked. A movie ticket cost only 12 cents.

By fifth grade, I was involved with the Campfire Girls at Camp Sweyolakan. I remember being picked up by the Seeweewana boat at the Third Street dock, excited for the memories that awaited.

My work experiences were varied. I spent time at the Topper Too Drive-In and Louis’ In & Out Drive-In (now Paul Bunyan) on Northwest Boulevard. By 1956, I was employed at Dairy Queen on 13th Street and Sherman, working half-days before heading to Coeur d’Alene Heritage House to do dishes.

During some summers, I made ice cream cones at Albertson’s on Fourth, where Goodwill stands today. 

Another fun fact: I would often pass Joe Acuff’s office on 11th Street and Sherman. He was the only real estate appraiser in town, and there were 22 total real estate agents serving the local area at the time.

I often spent my free time at the Coeur d'Alene City Beach, Sanders Beach or Playland Pier. Although, some of my fondest memories were at Person Field during the summer, where Park and Rec activities — archery, races and crafts — turned every day into an adventure. It was more than just an activity field; it was a hub of childhood excitement and community spirit.

Public schools also played a big part in my life, from the Harding School to IHM (Immaculate Heart of Mary) Academy. I was the first sophomore graduating class of Lakes Senior High School (now a middle school) in 1957. The Eagles Club was the place to be every Friday night from 7 to 11, where all the local kids gathered to dance. We would often “tool Sherman” starting on Northwest Boulevard to the Boat Drive-In (now Michael D’s), riding up and down the street in whoever’s car was available. 

I attended North Idaho College from 1958 to 1960 and later continued my studies at Eastern Washington University. It has been a true joy to grow up in Coeur d’Alene! 

— Gay Carlberg Winger

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Send your North Idaho memories and photos to Devin Weeks, dweeks@cdapress.com. Please provide information with any photos you send: who is in them, when and where were they taken and a brief description of what is happening in the photo. Pieces should be no more than 500 words. Please include the names of those submitting the memories and how long North Idaho has been or was your home.

Longtime residents have a treasure trove of stories about the way things used to be. We hope you'll share those gems with us.

    Gay Carlberg Winger moved to Coeur d'Alene in 1944 when she was 6. She was involved with the Campfire Girls at Camp Sweyolakan by fifth grade. "I remember being picked up by the Seeweewana boat at the Third Street dock, excited for the memories that awaited," Winger shared.

    Gay Carlberg Winger works the Dairy Queen grill in Coeur d'Alene in 1954.
  

    Playland Pier was a bustling attraction when Gay Carlberg Winger was growing up in Coeur d'Alene. The amusement park is pictured here next to Coeur d'Alene City Beach, year unknown.