The Evolving Story of 20 Bascom Street, Uxbridge

Tucked just off Brock Street, the building at 20 Bascom Street has been a quiet but important fixture in Uxbridge’s downtown for nearly seven decades. Over the years, it has transformed to meet the needs of a growing community — housing everything from a bustling local newspaper to township offices, a police department, a charitable thrift shop, and now a new downtown convenience store.

From Printing Press to Pressroom Apartments

In November 1957, the Uxbridge Times Journal — the town’s trusted source for local news — moved from its former Brock Street location into a brand-new building at 20 Bascom Street. At the time, the newspaper was owned by Per and Leila Hvidsten, who oversaw both the publishing operations and the day-to-day business.

The new building was thoughtfully designed for both work and home life. The main floor featured a showroom for office supplies and typewriters, as well as office space for the newspaper staff and an apartment for the Hvidstens. Down below, the lower level buzzed with activity — home to the heavy printing presses that produced the weekly newspaper read by so many Uxbridge residents.

Township Offices and the Local Police

When the Times Journal relocated to a new home at 191 Main Street in 1975, 20 Bascom Street found new purpose. The Township of Uxbridge took over the building, transforming the main level into municipal offices while the Uxbridge Police Department operated out of the lower level.

This dual role placed 20 Bascom at the heart of community life — a hub for local governance and public service.

From Law Office to “Chances Are”

In later years, the building became home to a lawyer’s office, before transitioning once again into one of Uxbridge’s most beloved community enterprises: Chances Are.

Operated by the Uxbridge Hospital Auxiliary, Chances Are became a true recycling success story — giving new life to donated clothing, housewares, and more, with all proceeds supporting the Uxbridge Hospital. 

After decades at 20 Bascom Street, Chances Are moved to its new and larger location at 2 Elgin Park Drive in December 2024, continuing its important charitable mission.

A New Chapter for 20 Bascom Street

In October 2025, 20 Bascom Street welcomed a new tenant and a new chapter: Shah’s Super Mart. This addition brought something many residents had missed — a downtown convenience store once again serving the heart of Uxbridge.

From its printing press roots to its modern role as a convenient local shop, 20 Bascom Street stands as a reminder of how Uxbridge continues to evolve — adapting its spaces to meet the needs of its people while preserving the community spirit that defines the town.

Photo Source and Credits

Historic photo courtesy of:

Hot Off The Press – History of Uxbridge Print by:  J. Peter Hvidsten

Ready more about the history in Uxbridge by following our Uxbridge History Blog Page.