The "Navy Point" neighborhood was built in 1945 as WWII was coming to an end. The homes were constructed with two and three bedroom floor plans complete with brick or asbestos siding veneers. The residents of the new subdivision needed a place to shop, thus the Navy Point Shopping Center came into being. Here the neighborhood shoppers could buy their medicine, groceries, clothing, appliances, or drop by the beauty salon. They even had a post office, liquor shop, and hardware store. Next door was a movie theater with first rate movies just down from the service station for gas and repairs. Opened for customers in 1946, the shopping center at Gibbs and Sunset Road became a bustling success for all of the local military families. As the neighborhood spiraled into decline, so followed the shopping center. In the 1960's and early 1970's, its popularity fell further especially as other retail stores such as the Town & Country complex sprang up leading to the first enclosed malls. On September 1, 1975, the Palm Mattress Company bought the property and began producing their product for local businesses. Now there is nothing left but a barren field and an old metal building. Such is the march of time that leaves only memories in its wake!
Navy Point Shopping Center late 1940's
Navy Point Shopping Center late 1940's
Site of old Navy Point Shopping Center at Sunset and Gibbs Streets 2019
Navy Point Shopping Center late 1940's
Navy Point Shopping Center at Sunset and Gibbs Streets 2019