Stripped Facade Has Locals Remembering Jeffrey's

When the facade of the HomeGoods was removed it exposed a little bit of history in Port Jefferson and sparked some memories for residents who have been around a while. Behind the sign was the old logo for Jeffrey's, a woman's clothing store from the late 1970s through the 1980s, according to the local historical society and readers who commented on our original post.

"The building was originally a Grant's Five and Ten (now there's a phrase you don't hear too often), similar to Woolworth's," said Jack Smith from the Cumsewogue Historical Society. "The building may have had other businesses in it between Grant's and Jeffrey's."

Others also dug deep in the memory banks to recall the businesses that had occupied the shopping center.

"I remember when the building was W.T.Grants," said George Moraitis, a local history buff.

"My mother worked there," said Peter Kontzamanys of Jeffrey's. "The location also had a bank attached to it, Franklin National Bank. Years later they made a separate for the bank and that became EAB. All the original stores are gone except Pizza Carnival."

Some were thoroughly enjoying the blast from the past.

"No rush to replace the facade," said Jacquelyn Smith Kirsch. "Everyone is getting a kick out of seeing the Jeffrey's sign again. Ah, the memories."

Andrea Spencer said she knew the owner of Jeffrey's.

"I've known Jeff my entire life," said Spencer. "He grew up with my uncle and they still remain close friends. He had three stores, Port Jefferson, Southampton, and Syosset. He had great stuff."

Do you remember shopping Jeffrey's or Grants? Tell us about it here.