Fast-food restaurants Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) and A&W have moved from the northwest corner of East Washington and Vallejo Streets. David Templeton of the Petaluma Argus-Courier wants to know what will replace them. I can’t answer that, but I can share what was on the site before Kentucky Fried Chicken.
Right: Sanborn Fire Insurance Map (1949)
KFC sat on Lot No. 28 of the Madison Square Subdivision, recorded in 1946. George C. Goheen of Mill Valley developed this 60-home residential development. The houses were “erected on the five-room unit plan, and no two homes looked alike in architectural style,” according to a June 6, 1946, Petaluma Argus-Courier article.
Lot No. 28 and the house that occupied it were the first to be sold. The buyer was Harry Tomasi, a Navy veteran who moved to 171 Vallejo Street with his wife, Jennie, and their two sons, two-year-old Roger and infant Ronnie, in April 1947. Harry was a car salesman. In 1951, Harry and Jennie sold the house to Alice Cannon.
When plans for the KFC were proposed in 1968, Alyce and Joseph Brazill were likely the owners of the house, which may have been moved rather than demolished.
In an October 1968 Petaluma Argus-Courier advertisement, Webber Realty listed 171 Vallejo Street for sale. The notice stated that the cost to relocate the residence was estimated at $1,500. Was it moved? If so, where did it go? And what happened to the KFC bucket?
A Pretty Little Show Place
Harlan may recall. Also, the Taco Bell next door went in at the same time, as I recall. But a 7-11 proposed for the northwest corner of Payran and E. Washington, did not, leaving us to rely upon the one at Howard and Washington.
The KFC building hasn’t had that appearance in years! Fun to read that the restaurant was met with such excitement and that the mayor was the first person served.
Thanks!