On Tuesday, November 24, 2009, a 75-year-old piece of Meridian’s history was destroyed. The historic Wilson’s Roller Skating Rink, located on the corner of 46th Avenue and 9th Street, was demolished, taking pieces of precious memories along with it. To some, this saddening occurrence may not be of any significance; however, for many Meridianites such as myself, Wilson’s was a significant part of our childhoods. As life takes us on its journey, many things will pass leaving permanent impressions in our minds. I feel confident to say that Wilson’s, indeed, is one of those sentimental landmarks to be recognized. It is truly heartbreaking to know that all of the memorabilia such as the roller skates, vintage arcade consoles, vinyl LPs, cassettes, compact discs, and countless photographs of decades passed were destroyed as well. Before last Tuesday, I would drive by the historic rink and reminisce on old memories as if they happened yesterday; but now, nothing remains except for the bare ground on which it was built so many years ago. The memories are tormented by the realization that all of those memorable keepsakes are gone forever. On behalf of us that hold it dear, the memory of the historic Wilson’s Skating Rink will certainly live forever.



Stephen T. Jeronymo

Meridian