We took the I-95 exit for Route 111 toward U.S. Route 1 and then into Biddeford. In looking at the Palace's database entry, our last visit was at the end of June 2005.
Upon arrival at this 1926 Pollard Company diner it was already closed for the day. Walking up the stairs to both entrances allowed a good look inside. We aren't sure if any cooking is still done behind the counter. As evidenced by the wear in the counter edge, many people have occupied the fifteen stools over the years.
We took a few pictures of the diner, one of only two Pollards remaining. Considering this it makes a comparison of the Palace a little more difficult. Diners may change over the years as they are sold, moved, renovated, or as new models and features are introduced.
In the picture to the right, the tile size, shape and color used on the front of the counter is similar to what we've seen in other late 1920's diners. The geometric pattern reminds us of the design seen in Tierney diners. Look at the counter picture in our post about the Tin Man diner here.
Perhaps this diner was renovated over the years. As we are lead to question everything to the left of the counter. Seen in the picture to the right, the foot rest is covered in what looks to be large terracotta colored tiles. In the 1920's diners we've seen so far, there's a foot rail connecting the stools. We think the stool style is a little out of place.
The floor tile also raises questions about its originality. 1920's tile floors we've seen in O'Mahony, Tierney, and Worcester diners typically had the tiles laid in a honeycomb pattern with intricate mosaic borders. However, the pattern seen here we mentioned in our post about the Fish Tale Diner. The center square is a light green almost matching the wall tile. On the inside walls are square tiles rather than the rectangular as used on the front counter.
Kyle and Debbie Quinn purchased this diner in September 2004. The diner has limited morning hours and is closed on Sunday. It's currently listed for sale.
Previous stop Chubby's next is Rock 'n Roll.
Palace Diner
18 Frankin St.
Biddeford, ME
View Map
Article Tools
No comments:
Post a Comment