The end of an era at Stratford Square

The news broke my heart when I heard that Stratford Square Mall would be no more. The memory of this beautiful structure is something that still resonates with me to this day.

My first experience was going with my parents when I was 10 in 1992 to watch Aladdin in the theater. The mall was filled with invigorating energy and life that was the vibrant ‘90s. I can remember the fragrant smells of Cinnabon wafting through the air in warm waves. The mall was bustling with people who seemed carefree.

The elaborate lush plants and fountains adorned seating areas and escalators, while Muzak played through the speakers. The bold architecture and skylights enhanced the sun and filtered light like the heavens. This aesthetic atmosphere had sanctuary comfort. A gathering place that brought people together: whether to shop, play video games, people watch, watch a movie, or mall walk. It was a rite of passage as possibilities were endless.

In recent years, the reality set in that we were losing an incredible part of retail history and door to the past. If only there was a way to preserve Stratford’s existence to stay with us. Once demolished, it will likely be transformed into look-alike condominiums and arrogant restaurants. This is our mediocre future. Stratford had character and class. Lasting memories live on from people that were fortunate enough to live through them.

As I walked the halls this last visit, tears streamed down my face. It felt like a dystopian cyberpunk movie. The faint Muzak hauntingly filled the vacant echoey space. Each label-scarred store I passed once had a brilliant story to tell. I closed my eyes and felt that very same way I did 31 years ago. Another gem painfully lost its battle to the end of an era.

Catherine Bozzi

Rockford