For many Americans, “Main Street” is the heart of the community; it is where we shop, eat and see movies. Main Street is an avenue in "Any Town USA" that can conjure up happy memories of days-gone-by.

But there are roads that skirt the center of town, too, that we recall fondly; they are like old friends and the mere mention of the street's name has the ability to "take us home."

While real estate may change hands and the complexion of a community may alter, the streets and the names they carry typically stay the same.

The U.S. Census Bureau notes that “Main Street,” while most certainly a common name for a thoroughfare in America, ranks only seventh in popularity in the country. As much as it sounds like an Abbott and Costello comedy routine, as far as the most common street names go: “Second” is first, “Third” is second, “First” is third and “Fourth” louses it all up by being fourth.

Here is a look at vintage street scenes from around the state. Be sure to click on the captions button and links to read more about each photo.

Next week: Libraries. Do you have photos taken in New Jersey before 1983 of activities in public libraries? If so, we might consider using them in a gallery. Send a jpg and description to ghatala@starledger.com.