In recent years, there has been a growing number of Asian immigrants settling and establishing businesses in the town of Middletown, also known as Mid City, in Upstate New York. The bustling North St. in the downtown area has seen a surge in popularity with the presence of various new businesses such as Italian restaurants, Chinese supermarkets, specialty coffee shops, bakeries, and bookstores. Middletown is now referred to as a “revitalized city” as the Asian community continues to thrive in the area.
One of the landmarks on North St. is the historic Tompkins Department Store located at 29 North St. After decades of closure, this once beloved department store was revitalized in November 2023 as the New Middletown Specialty Store, known as “New Middletown.” Housed in a three-story red brick building, the store has been refurbished to become a new focal point in the area.
The exterior of the building has been meticulously restored, retaining its historical charm while exuding a renewed vibrancy. The prominent feature of a large clock on the exterior wall is once again in operation, symbolizing the continuation of history and progress.
Tompkins Department Store, established in 1898, was the oldest department store in Middletown. Initially founded to cater to the agricultural and artisan communities of the city, it played a crucial role in the industrial growth of Middletown during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Benefiting from the rise of railways in the 19th century, Middletown became a pivotal hub for railroad freight and transportation. Its industrial significance was underscored by the arrival of the New York and Erie Railroad in 1843. Following the Civil War, several railroad lines passed through the city, leading to industrial diversification in textile, metalworking, and machinery manufacturing. Transitioning from industrialization, Middletown evolved into a center for commerce and retail following the decline of traditional industries.
In the 1950s, Middletown’s downtown thrived as a bustling shopping district, featuring not only Tompkins Department Store but also Greens Department Store. However, the local business landscape faltered as large shopping centers emerged nearby. Tompkins Department Store closed its doors in 1984, leaving the building vacant for years until the rejuvenation brought by New Middletown. The restoration of this iconic department store building has injected new life into the community, rekindling memories of its past glory.
New Middletown specializes in jewelry, leather goods, silk products, clothing, home décor, artwork, boutique items, books, and daily necessities. The store’s luxurious interior, particularly its intricately designed wooden screens, showcases a blend of sophistication and craftsmanship. Whatever daily essentials you may seek, New Middletown offers a comprehensive shopping experience.
Notably, during New Middletown’s inaugural Christmas in 2023, the store revived an old tradition from Tompkins Department Store – photos with Santa Claus. This nostalgic gesture marked a 40-year return to the cherished tradition, evoking childhood memories for many residents. Ruth Elaine Miller, 74, shared a photo of her posing with Santa from the 1950s at the Tompkins building and expressed her warm wishes for New Middletown’s success in a letter to the store’s staff.
With the increasing Asian immigrant population, Middletown’s governmental organizations, businesses, and residents will come together to celebrate the Chinese New Year, promoting multiculturalism and business opportunities. The City of Middletown, Downtown Middletown BID, and New Middletown will host a series of Chinese New Year events on January 25th, including:
– 12:00 PM: Dragon and lion dances, traditional Chinese dance performances, and Chinese tea at New Middletown Specialty Store (29 North St.)
– 1:30 PM: Lion dance performance in collaboration with Middletown City Hall at Run 4 Downtown Park (9-15 North St.)
Following the park performance, the Golden Dragon and Lion will visit various businesses to spread festive cheer. At 2:30 PM, visitors will have the opportunity to take photos with the dragon and lion at New Middletown and enjoy a grand Tang Dynasty drum performance.
The renowned Italian restaurant, PICCOLO’s, will serve a special dish, “Chinese dumplings,” using traditional Italian ingredients such as ricotta cheese and sausage, offering a unique culinary experience. Moreover, local eateries and shops in Middletown will introduce special promotions in honor of the Chinese New Year.
This Chinese New Year presents an excellent opportunity to explore this rejuvenated city. Come and experience the vibrant cultural celebrations during this festive season!