Tom Dixon

Contributor

Patrick Michael Quinn was born Feb. 24, 1940 in Norwich, NY, the oldest of three children to Frank and Mary Quinn. This post-depression era spawned many jobs, but money was still scarce. Multiple factories dotted the city, and two railroads hauled cargo and passengers through town at all hours of the day and night. At the center of all this sat “Quinn’s Diner,” presently Johnny B’s (formerly The Caboose). It was a busy little eatery, a place of good food and hearty banter – always packed. This business enabled Frank and Mary to raise their children and purchase a home on Maple Street, not far from the baskets where young Patrick would soon be “tickling the twines.”

Pat showed early signs of interest and ability in all sports and this era enabled him to pursue them. Technology was still in its infancy. There was no internet or satellites. Rotary dial phones and “party lines” were the norm. Television didn’t cross the airways until Patrick was 10 years of age. Entertainment was narrowly selective; consequently, a young lad had ample time to pursue his interests and hobbies. Young Patrick was athletic, diversely interested in sports and of good size. This combination in this era would prove to make Pat “A Man for All Seasons.”