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Date: 8/16/2023
CHICOPEE — Nowadays, it seems that historic buildings are being renovated or demolished, but in downtown Chicopee, the Starzyk Building has been standing strong for 100 years.
State and city officials, employees and members of the community gathered on Aug. 9 to celebrate the milestone at 10 Center St.
The building, constructed in 1921, is currently owned and operated by LaQuinta Realty Trust and the Szlachetka family with management provided by the law firm Szlachetka Dubay PC.
According to information provided by the law firm, the Starzyk Building is a “testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of its original owner, Paul Peter Starzyk.”
Starzyk, a Polish immigrant, first arrived in Chicopee in the early 1890s, where he began working in the mills of the Dwight Manufacturing Company, before establishing his own successful men’s clothing store. The company’s success enabled him to erect the original Starzyk Building, followed by an additional wing a year later.
Aside from a few minor alterations to the storefront windows, the building’s exterior has remained largely untouched, preserving its historical character.
Today, the Starzyk Building serves as a commercial hub with retail and office spaces and continues to be a vital part of Downtown Chicopee.
The Aug. 9 celebration not only marked the building’s milestone but also honored its namesake, Starzyk, “who embodies the entrepreneurial spirit that has helped shape Chicopee. His legacy continues in the bustling activity within the building, a reminder of our rich local history and the dynamic community that thrives here today,” said Szlachetka Dubay.
Starzyk Building owner Stanley Szlachetka told Reminder Publishing that buildings typically last about 30 to 40 years, with many being knocked down. “I hope this lasts another 100 years,” he said.
Szlachetka was presented with a citation from the state to honor the building’s centennial. He was joined by his two children, who assisted in the ribbon cutting ceremony.
Mayor John Vieau was also in attendance and described the downtown’s history as “incredible.”
He added that Chicopee is the “biggest, small downtown” for a city of more than 55,000 people.
Vieau said residents can expect to see “major improvements” and revitalization of the downtown over the next five years.