Certainly, Armagh has seen many changes over the years. Most of these changes have occurred in the name of progress and, whilst modernity has its merits, there have undoubtedly been casualties along the way.
Over the weekend, we took to social media with a light-hearted question, asking which long-lost, independently owned shops you would like to see make a welcome return to the high street and, as always, we asked and you responded.
Related: Armagh’s Benetton clothing store to become community-based church hub
Lipton’s Grocers (of course we featured this previously) was one popular answer, alongside Pat a Cake on English Street, as well as, The Cake Shop and Johnston's Shoe Shop on Upper English Street.
Related: The Cake Shop confirms closure plans as another business bows out
But by far the most popular response in the comments had to be... of course A Lennox & Sons. The popular department store opened for business in 1887 closing a mere 111 years later.
Beloved stores aside, there are also a number of memorable artefacts that have been lost (or relocated?). Many will remember the Golden Teapot that rose to fame for its prominent position outside James Irwin’s Grocers in Scotch Street - now at it's new home at The Charlemont Hotel. And what of Humpy the Camel? Surely Humpy has to be the most beloved and missed of all our relics!
2Ps at the ready!! We think Humpy would look brilliant in the Armagh I window on Barrack Street - what do you think? Or where else do you think is the ideal spot?
These shops were more than just retail outlets – they were part of the community, providing us with much more than just the everyday essentials to buy.
They offered us a sense of belonging. However, we can still keep their memory alive by cherishing the moments we spent in their stores and reflecting on the impact they had on our city!
Related: Work begins to transform four derelict properties in Armagh city centre
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Past issues
Lifting up our local litter-picking legends
Does Armagh have a parking epidemic?
It's a foul problem across Armagh city centre
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In at sainsburys would be good. Children would love it while their parents are shopping