Storm of March 1962 destroyed the Dolle’s structure in Rehoboth

The infamous northeast storm of March 1962, with its strong winds and exceptionally high tides, took out many houses and businesses as well as much of the Boardwalk in Rehoboth Beach. This aerial photograph from the aftermath of the storm shows the devastation at the end of Rehoboth Avenue including the almost total flattening of the building at the northeast corner of Rehoboth Avenue and the Boardwalk that we know now as the Dolle’s structure.

After the building was reconstructed following the storm, for its saltwater taffy and caramel corn production and sales, the iconic Dolle’s sign was fashioned and mounted atop the new building. It became an instant landmark for downtown Rehoboth Beach, but its future is now in doubt following the recent announcement that the Dolle’s operation will be leaving the building and relocating to the Ibach’s building down the street. More information at capegazette.com/node/213258.

Next week’s historic photo will show this portion of Rehoboth Avenue in the years just after reconstruction, including the new Dolle’s building and its new sign.