Hartbreaking Closure in Birmingham: Etheridge Senior Car Wash Shuts Its Doors After 31 Years
In the heart of downtown Birmingham, a beloved institution has closed its doors for good. Etheridge Senior Car Wash, which has been serving the community since 1993, officially shut down on October 25, leaving customers and owners alike reminiscing about the decades of service and connections made within its walls. This establishment wasn’t just a car wash; it was a family legacy that served as a bridge in the community.
A Family Legacy Ends
Ashley Pritchett-White and her sister April Pritchett, the co-owners of Etheridge Senior Car Wash, made the sad announcement earlier this month on their social media. “After 31 wonderful years, we regret to announce that we will be closing our doors,” they shared in a heartfelt message. They mentioned how the evolving economy and difficulties in hiring had made it increasingly challenging to uphold the standards that loyal customers had come to expect. “It’s hard to say goodbye to something that has meant so much to us and the community,” April said.
Memories That Will Last a Lifetime
As the sisters packed up, the streets buzzed with customers who were keen on getting in one last wash. Many shared their fond memories. Daijah Bell, who frequented the car wash for over ten years, said, “I will miss how my car always looked brand new after a wash here.” With every visit, customers like Bell enjoyed not just a clean vehicle, but also a sense of community and connection that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Anita Davis, another loyal customer, echoed those sentiments, expressing confusion about where she would take her car now. “They do such a good job, it’s like driving off in a new car every time! We’ve been coming as a family for years now,” she said, her disappointment palpable. There was a deep-rooted love for the service provided, and for many, it felt like losing a part of their family.
From Humble Beginnings to Closure
Etheridge Senior Car Wash was established by Willie T. Etheridge, a fixture in Birmingham who opened the business as part of a legacy that included several barbershops and beauty salons. After his passing in 2003, his daughter Felecia took over until her death in 2017, when April and Ashley stepped in. “It was a little daunting at first, but we’ve kept it going day in and day out, just like the family before us,” Ashley recalled.
However, like many businesses, Etheridge faced challenges, especially after the pandemic hit. The number of employees dwindled drastically, going from 14 to just two before the closing. “It was tough, we were doing everything we could to keep it afloat, sometimes washing up to 25 cars ourselves,” Ashley explained, illustrating the emotional and physical toll of running the family business. The sisters said they decided it was time to put themselves first, a sentiment that resonated strongly with many local residents watching them transition.
A Lasting Impact on the Community
As the final wash took place, community members gathered one last time at the car wash, reflecting on the atmosphere that had become part of their daily lives. Ralph Woodfin, a frequent customer, said, “I’m really going to miss this place. They treated every car like it was their own, always leaving it sparkling inside and out.”
Not only did Etheridge provide a service, but it also created a space for connections, camaraderie, and support among locals. “I’ll miss the people I met here, it wasn’t just about getting my car washed; it was about forming relationships. It’s really going to leave a gap in the community,” Daijah shared.
Looking Ahead
As they close one chapter, Ashley and April are looking forward to new opportunities in their personal and professional lives. Ashley plans to refocus on her studies in nursing, while April has a steady job at Blue Cross Blue Shield, where she’s been for 17 years. But their passion for community service will always remain a part of them.
A Call to Action for Community Support
In light of their closure, both sisters emphasized the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses in the area. “Please continue to prioritize and uplift local businesses. They are the fabric of our community,” Ashley urged. “Although this is the end of our journey at Etheridge, we hope others can carry the torch for small businesses in Birmingham.”
As the car wash hoses rolled up for the last time, the essence of Etheridge Senior Car Wash will undoubtedly linger in the hearts of its customers. A part of Birmingham’s history has come to a close, but the memories shared and connections made will continue for years to come.
