Joanie and Gene Smith at their venerable Smith’s Nut House and Candy Store now located on Tustin Street.  They founded the business in 1946, which at the time was a simple roadside stand in front of Joanie’s family’s Orange grove.  Pictured behind them is a “Mama’s Clothesline” sign from Joanie’s former store in Old Towne Orange.  (Photo inset):  The couple in the 1940s when Gene was enlisted in the Navy.

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Gene and Joanie Smith

Gene and Joanie Smith’s venerable Smith’s Nut House on North Tustin Street has been a part of Old Towne history for as long as folks can remember.

First opened by Gene and Joanie in 1946 next to the old drive-in theater, the original Nut House started out as a simple roadside stand in front of Joanie’s family’s Orange grove, right where the 5 Freeway is now.

“At that time, it was on the old Inland Highway from LA to San Diego,” Gene said.  “We sold lots of oranges, juice, nuts, honeys, candies and dates.  We progressed through the years with different merchandise and different locations.”

With three generations of Smiths working at Smith’s Nut House today, Gene, 83, is still part of the day-to-day operation.  Both Gene and Joanie were born and raised in Orange, and have amazing memories of their growing-up years.

“When I was young, I lived out in the country west of the river,” said Joanie.  “I just loved coming to town.  We would walk down Almond Street to our Girl Scout meetings.  It was a big adventure because there were actually sidewalks and we could roller skate.”

Even though they didn’t meet until after high school, Joanie says she remembers Gene when he ran for student body president at Orange High School.

“She organized people to run against me,” laughed Gene at the thought of his future wife leading the opposition.  “She didn’t vote for me but I won anyway!”

In high school, Gene worked at Daniel’s Market where Citrus City Grill is located today.  He worked up front in the produce section earning 25 cents an hour.

“I think I did get up to 40 cents an hour eventually,” recalls Gene.  “It was fun.  You’d see everybody in town.”

Scotty’s Malt Shop was the big hangout after school events.  Hamburgers were 15 cents.  May Day was another favorite memory growing up.

Gene joined the Navy in his senior year of high school.  He served in the South Pacific during World War II on a tanker, delivering aviation fuel as the forces progressed.  When Gene returned to the states, he hooked up with Joanie and was soon engaged.  They bought the house on North Batavia where they still live today.

With seven grown children, 24 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren, the Smiths keep making their mark on Old Towne Orange.

“All of their kids stayed local,” Joanie said.  “We have great grandchildren in school here.  We love Orange and we love downtown Orange.  We are so proud of our family and our town.”