I was going back through some old shots and came across this one. Nothing significant about it but its origin. It came from a place called Duchess Sandwich and Shake shop in Ellicott City. It was only open from 11am to 4pm M-F. Ms. Maggie would make sandwiches to order, and you couldn’t beat the price. I believe this turkey and cheese was $3.50.

My first stop there was in the mid-70s I believe when her husband ran it. I would either go there or Georges on Rt 40 for a good quick inexpensive lunch. I miss both those places because they were so friendly. People there were courteous and talkative with each other. And they didn’t break the bank.

Those little community places have mostly gone by the wayside. And what ones there are now, are difficult to afford. In some ways it’s part of the normal cycle. It was time for her to retire and when her freezer broke that was just the push she needed.

There are a lot of people who miss this place and other local stops that closed their doors. Chains are dotting every corner it seems and more open every day. For instance, a new Popeyes and Taco Bell are coming to Rt 40 soon.

I loved that it was cash only. Sandwiches wrapped in paper and a brown paper bag to go. That shakes were only $3.75. Things were so cheap I think everyone felt a bit guilty because I always saw people leaving her extra and this is carry-out only. And people spoke while waiting in line. Because she was the only one behind the counter working usually. I think her daughter helped now and then with the shakes.

People held the door when you had your hands full and were patient in the limited parking area. You might be in line and have a doctor in front of you, a construction worker behind you and everyone from all walks seemed to visit here. Lots of locals who often said to each other, “hey how have you been” and go outside and catch up after getting their food.

Which is another reason I loved it because I would my sandwich and either alone or with my better half go down to the Patapsco River and eat along the banks watching the water flow by and the occasional Blue Herron come by and fish. A lot of my car rides to wherever the car wanted to take me always seemed to roll by that spot to get a bite to eat and then find a beautiful scene to enjoy the food in.

Maybe a trip down to Danials and the dam.

Maybe I’ll make my own sandwich and head out later today with the top down and find another sweet spot to enjoy fall.

Have a great day.