What I’m Thankful For… West End Memories

This Thanksgiving weekend, many of us are reflecting on what we’re grateful for. We were curious about the memories for which West Enders give thanks, so we reached out on social media to ask. Below is a sample of what people said (respondents are identified only by their first names).

“I lived on Leverett Street. There will never be another place like the West End. It was one big happy family. Everyone looked out for each other. I was real young when we had to move, between 6- and 8-years-old. I remember the carts out in the streets selling their stuff, like the crab man. I also remember Ray’s Variety and getting penny candy there…. Also, the barber shop that my mother used to take me to. I was terrified of that place. I always cried.” – George

“I lived on Chambers ‘til I was 9. Also went to the Peter Faneuil School. Loved the West End. Made my communion at St. Joseph’s Church. Wonderful memories.” – Marie

“I am thankful for all of the memories of our house on the corner of Chambers St. and Eaton St., where we all lived together as a family, including the grandparents Morris and Katie Lampert.” – Sharen

“Loved growing up in the West End. Lived on Poplar Street with my brother, mom, dad and the mice. Went to St. Joseph’s Church and remember Halloween parties at the Peabody House. My dad played basketball at the West End House. Miss those days.” – – JoAnn

“Loved the West End and being surrounded by so many uncles, aunts and cousins! We lived on Leverett St. until I was almost 8. I remember playing Red Rover and hula- hooping with cousins in the street below our windows and playing in the back room of Ray’s Variety. I am thankful for those memories.” – Ann

“I lived in the West End until second grade when we were forced to move out. We lived at 7 Staniford Street. My grandparents owned the Blossom Spa Restaurant, which was downstairs from their beautiful brownstone. I visited them practically every day. I will never forget my kindergarten teacher, Miss Murphy, at the Winchell School She was the best.” – Babs

“I loved the Elizabeth Peabody House. It had everything you wanted there. We had a terrific time at the West End (community) House also. So many activities at these places. So many friends and family.” – Dorothy

“Lived on Poplar and MacClean Streets. Was quite young, 5-6 years old when ‘they’
threw us out! I remember the camaraderie and kindness of neighbors.” – Dorothy

“Went to St. Joseph’s School and lived on Pitts St. in the West End. Had a good life there until it was torn down.” – Margaret

Here at The West End Museum, we’re thankful for this wonderful neighborhood and all the people who call it home.

If you’d like to add your West End memories, please click HERE. Thank you.