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Jayson | profile | all galleries >> cincinnati >> World Cities >> East St. Louis, Illinois

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East St. Louis, Illinois

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Ronh		10-Feb-2012 04:28
Does anyone know if there was ever a White Castle located near the Macarthur bridge?

KJOK		07-Feb-2012 23:18
Does anyone know where "Polo Park" was located in East St. Louis? Could it have been in Jones Park? It was supposedly near 19th St and Lynch. There were boxing matches there in the 1920s. Negro League baseball teams also played a few games there.

guest		04-Feb-2012 08:15
Wish my kids could see how E.St.L. used to be. I loved growing up there!

Kim		03-Feb-2012 21:13
I was born at the Christian Welfare Hospital in 1968. Was given up for adoption and have found some information out about my parents. I apparently had a sister that was approx two years older...which would make her 45-46 this year. Unsure if the parents were from the area or where exactly....but from what I have found out the last name could possibly be Jenkins. Grandparents owned a confectionary. Some other info was given but if anyone recognizes any info pls respond. Thank you...Kim

David Wright		03-Feb-2012 06:29
Arthur Williams , you have to know Lamar "Slick Pick" Pickett and Terry Hill from your class at East Side . You was there when Kellen Winslow dropped those touchdown passes from Verdel Jones in the state championship game...lol He came out of East Boogie and set the NFL on fire ! People can say all the bad things about ESL and St. Louis that they want, but there are more famous and influential people from that little area , that any other place on earth. When all the industry moved away , the jobs went away . When the jobs went away , the law went away . The reason it's like it is now, is because poverty breeds ingnorance and disease . The lack of law , increases crime . yet it is still , a fascinating and wonderful place. Fascinate.... to attract and hold attentively by a unique power, personal charm, unusual nature, or some other special quality; enthrall: a vivacity that fascinated the audience.

Chaundelyne		03-Feb-2012 03:19
Yes, I remember ur dad well. I was one of ur dad clients right up to the time he was killed. I also remember ur Uncle Maurice whom was also a hairstylist/barber like ur father and he owned the Airport in downtown East St. Louis. Btw, did they ever find ur dads killer?

csd53		01-Feb-2012 03:50
lukenz98 love this site. my grandparents lived on st. clair and 15th. i was there every weekend. lots of memories. they owned a little diner on st. clair ave.if any body knows the name of it post it please thier name was phillips. als any stories about phils cafe at 10th and brady, hannaigans,prices restraunts or adams drug store on state st. lower numbers. alsohey to peggy gross orignally on baugh ave then to caseyville me too.and i remremember joe and tony houston they also went to caseyville i think. on ae saint louis website witth the word jayson in it there is acool u tube video about esl with the song in the ghetto its beautiful. there is hous in it that says haggerty house just wondererin if that is the haggerty family that had 9 sons and moved to belleville.

Guest		28-Jan-2012 19:28
Thank you LAURA for the reciepe We will try it this weekend and i will post how it turns out

alice		28-Jan-2012 14:45
I'm a french student and I am currently working on the city of East Saint Louis. Can you tell me more about the situation of the city today ? the city is it changing ? the living condition are they in improvement? what are the various actions (of the east st louis's citizen or of the Government) to improve the situation ? Thanks in advance :)

Laura		27-Jan-2012 23:10
NIGHTMARE SANDWICHES- 1 lb. ground beef, 1 can chili without beans, 1 small onion, chopped, salt and pepper to taste, 8 slices american cheese, 8 hamburger buns. Brown hamburger with onion, salt and pepper. Drain. Add chili. Place mixture on bun with a slice of cheese. Wrap in foil and bake 15 to 20 min. These are great! Enjoy.

Guest		27-Jan-2012 15:40
I'm Looking for a lady name Rosie don't know remember last name she cared from my grandma Ethel Freiberg who owned a cleaners on 84th and State St and lived behind the cleaners. Last time I saw her was 1994 at my grandma funeral I was in the Army then. Rosie was the best person in the world to me as a kid, showing me want ESTL had to offer in the 70's 80's and I will always remember her. If ant body knows of her email @ estl90@yahoo.com

guest		26-Jan-2012 19:19
Laura, reading your post what is a Nightmare and can you post the reciepe? I have been reading the post on this site for about 2 years it is very interesting my Aunt and Uncle lived in Belville i only traveled threw East St. Louis once in 1989

Arthur Williams		26-Jan-2012 07:56
My name is Arthur I Williams grew up in East ST. Louis, class of 1977 the city will always have a place in my heart. I enjoy reading the posts on this site. I like the phrase sweet and sour sum it up. I have travel around the world and find myself coming back to East ST. Louis. I believe that we must improve the image of our city. #1 clean it,and make it safe. And we do not have a life time to do it. I love you all! p.s Hi Karen Miles

franki s		26-Jan-2012 02:48
mannn it so good to read these comment, i lived in rush city,on the hill, i also remember ike and tina being at my house, my mom was a drancer at a place call frank, i must admit i only know the the place that was call libell when i would wait for the bus to take me to st louis to go to loew torom east see a movie, i went to lansdowne and clark grad from eastside, all i have grest memory of my childhood, what i would give for a red candyapple,snoot and mr softy, or some rice from lovejoy

Laura		23-Jan-2012 23:12
My sister in law has the recipe for the Nightmares from Price's Drive -In. The one she made used the american cheese. They are really good. I was born at St. Mary's Hospital, lived in Fairmont City until second grade. Moved to Belleville, IL in the mid 1960's. Cousin's lived in the Landsdown neigborhood. My dad worked at Rose Lake Yards. Loved Kruta's and Rosemont Bakery. Great memories.

Linda		23-Jan-2012 21:35
I am from the "Goose Hill" area. I went to Rock and East Side. I graduated from East side in 1969, If anyone remembers the Guyton's from The Hill, I am Linda. E-mail me at: mum_51_love@yahoo.com. Would love to hear from anyone from Goose Hill and East Side class of '69.

Aaron Mosley		23-Jan-2012 06:17
Anyone know or remember my dad the Hair Doctor Aaron Mosley Jr.

NV		21-Jan-2012 21:16
Thanks for trying to provide info on the castle-like building! Got that info now. It was the old Walgreens store. Forget the name of the building (have it somewhere in my notes now though.) New mystery: Anyone know what the huge building at 5th and St. Louis Ave is/was? It is right next to the MetroLink tracks. It is about midway between the Shriner's Temple and the ramp to the highway. Looked different places but coming up empty. Thanks!

yusuf		09-Jan-2012 20:13
i AM Arthur Howard; I spent most of my formative years living in the Gomper HMS. govt. projects. I do recognize several people who have contributed correspondence to this web-page, and I appreciate you all. Vernell Davis, Hazell Liddell, Eric Brewer, and Jay Byrd Norris; you are just a few of my childhood constituents. It's good to know you all are alive and well. My family moved into the Gomper homes in 1961. We lived at apt. 19-D for about 30 yrs . Ms. Kay Thimms and her children Pete, Barbara, Veronica , and Freddie were my neighbors, as well as Ms. Hazel Chamberlain, and her children James Arthur,Randolph, Patricia, Jerry , and Paul. Oh! almost forgot to mention the Allen family; Mr.George, and his wife Juanita, along with their children David , Kenneth,etc. "those were the GOLDEN DAYS!" those who know, REALLY KNOW! If you remember me you may correspond to me at " moorforyourmoney@yahoo.com we can choppit-up from there. Peace and Love Family!

Kim		07-Jan-2012 04:56
This is for "Guest" that is inquiring about Jimmy's Gay Inn. Please e mail me at kim_karraker@rocketmail.com. I am the Grandaughter of "Jimmy".

Guest		06-Jan-2012 15:21
I just found this and was looking through the page...didn't notice any of the following: Thunderbird or Hudson Skating Rinks, Harding, Midway Fire Dept picnics, Kruta Bakery when their home was E St Louis, Hannigans (I think, I saw one). I grew up on 75t St., went to Harding and King, went to First Presbyterian Church on State St, Remember 2 for $5.00 @ Hill Brothers Shoes...DT E St Louis was the place to shop...Sears, Pennys, Jupiter, Woolworth and further up on State, Robert Hall's and Kinny's...anybody from this area or these memories...oh yes, Shopland and French Village Drive in

Richard		03-Jan-2012 22:39
I lived in Rosemont on Hollows Ave and 49th St. I attended Wilson, Lansdowne, and East Side. I went to Rosemont Baptist Church. For fun, my best friend Mickey Mitchell and I would collect soda bottles from ditches and then we'd take them to Mitchell's Market and cash them in to buy bananas and penny candy. I moved away after the fourth grade but still lived in E. St Louis on 72nd street. I later went to Harding, Edgemont, Clark and King. Richard

Guest		03-Jan-2012 05:24
Guest Can you give me some information on Coach Perry? I'm looking for a Perry with a sister name Jackie.

Guest		01-Jan-2012 22:53
I was wondering if it was any famous painters to every come out of E. Saint or the surrounding cities. If so i would like to look at some of there work leave contact at Stckbnd74@aol.com

Dee Dee		30-Dec-2011 22:36
This is to Tony Houston..You lived across the st. from me on 52nd I knew Joey and Steve.My kid brother name was Tommy DeForest..my name Debbie they called me DeeDee.Would love to hear from you.I was in California for 25 years.We hid Joey in our house once.A good site you knew you grew up in east saint louis

robbie6		30-Dec-2011 19:49
Lincoln HS Grad here

Guest		27-Dec-2011 15:28
I was born at Christian Welfare Hospital in 1954, and I lived in Rosemont on N. 49th St. near Baleydier. I attended Wilson, Lansdowne, and East Side. I went to Rosemont Baptist Church. For fun, my best friend and I would ride our bikes collecting soda bottles from ditches and then we'd take them to Mitchell's Market and cash them in to buy a bag of penny candy...yummy! It was a really great place to grow up, and it sickens me that my old neighborhood is now the home of feral dogs.

blackberrywine1265		20-Dec-2011 00:01
Anyone reading this post reconizing me or what I have said can email me @Wilsonkrw@hotmail.com

blackberrywine1265		19-Dec-2011 23:58
I happened across this site by accident and I must say I am enjoying the posts that I have read, however I have to agree with Al King in his response to "1959 East St Louis All American City" I know what you say is true because my "Bigmama" had one of those accounts, as a matter of fact right down the street on about 10th and Baker. I remember Marguilis as well, but we hardly went in there, we went in Cofman's. I remember Molly and Rose and Saul. I remember Rose running the cash register hollering "Come on in" while she rang up and overcharged people, however I was too young to know that what was going on. I also remember Roy Weiss and those clothes vouchers (three pair of underwear and hankerchief they would give you. I also remember when downtown was thriving and you ran into almost anyand everybody, there were cabs galore, with Woolworth, Jupiter side by side. Shoot I ever remember when the children's shop closed, I was grown by then. If those things happened it wasnt in our part of town. I didnt know Jones Park existed back then, all I knew was Lincoln and Virginia Park.When I became aware of Washington Park and the northend part of town I was 12 yrs. old. As I say again Al King I agree with you, thats why the city went in such array. I was born @St. Mary's Infirmary Hospital in 1959, and raised in East St. Louis, in the southend. ( My ex-husband was from Pollock town) We lived at 1318 Baker, my grandmother lived on the corner @ 1307 Baker,(Miss Liddie was what people called her), my dad was known as "Soldier Boy" and owned a gambling house in the alley behind the barber shop on 15th street off of Baker across from what was then (in my time)Ruby's lounge. There was Beaver's Cleaners, on the next corner by the black bridge, and there was also the neighborhood center on 15th and Russell. As a child I attended Mt. Zion Baptist church with my mother when it was on the corner of 13 th and Tudor before it moved, I'd go sometimes to Truelight Baptist Church with my BigMama, and Pilgrim Baptist Church with my aunt Nora till I was about 10, then my aunt and grandmother died. I even remember Ike and Tina Turner coming to our house. My mother's name was Virginia (called Ginny)It was five kids myself Karen, Tommie, Wanda, Joyce and Darrell. During that time when I was old enough to know Baker was a good street to live on. The Fauloner lived across the street from my Big mama, as well did the Doziers (the Doziers and my family were good friends)and the Ross's, the Norriss's, Bobo's Williams's to name a few lived down the street in the next block. I remember Miss Browns candy store on 11th and Colas if Im not mistaken. There used to be a tavern on the corner of 13th and Baker. It was also another confectionary on 10th and Millet ( the name escapes me right now) From Baker we moved to 1100 South 14th Street. Our neighbors were the Reed's, Fisher's, Duncans,and Hill from what I can remember. By the time I was nine or ten we moved to 1321 Gay, where our neighbors were the Davis's, Thomas's. Smith, until 1972 we then moved on Natalie on the city's northside. I have been looking for old school mates and neighborhood friends and aquaintences on face book but have found only two. I went to Washington Ele. Miss Foley was my fisrt grade teacher, ending with Miss Nicholson as my 6th.(, Does anyone remember Miss Keys hambugersand hotdogs sandwiches for 20 cents 35 cents for a deluxe, or Miss Flowers around the corner, even Conrads was up the street from her and you could get a half of fried chicken for 65 cents? Those were the days. I went to Hughes-Quinn before transferring to Rock Jr High in 1973, during that time the middle section was gone and we had two buildings 7th and the 8th and 9th grade building, Mr Johnson was the principal. From there I went to East Side in 1974 class of 77', we then moved to 1609 Hall. I left the city in 1985 and went to Northern Cal., but came back after a year because of the gang thing out there, and have been in East St Louis ever since. I said all this to say I raised four sons and one daughter and they have been and are very productive in this city.

Guest		18-Dec-2011 22:57
I went to Slade School, Clark Jr. High, and East St. Louis High, graduated in 1952. We had many good times. Robert Prywitch

JD		14-Dec-2011 10:09
I lived in E. St. Louis up until 1969, down on 73rd street. The place is now an empty lot... like most of E. St. Louis. I went to Clark JH and then East Side High. I made it through the gang wars, racial fighting all through high school, and finally made it out. Joined the military and went to Vietnam, stayed in and finally retired in 1989. I've made one trip back. I liked Vietnam better.

XESL Flyer		10-Dec-2011 05:56
Born CWH in 1947 & lived on 62nd street until I got drafted in 67 (board 191). Went to Morrison, Clark and ESide. Worked for the post office on 20th & State, then 9th & Missouri. I walked "every" street in ESL. I went back in 2000 and most of the 700 block of 62nd is completely gone, heck, a lot of ESL is gone now. But, there are a lot of cities that simply did not survive for whatever reason. I live in Arizona now but no matter what ESL is now, It was my home for over 20 years and that will never change. Go FLYERS.....

Guest		07-Dec-2011 20:01
Don Reeves,I lived on N.35th and then N.62nd.Went to Park and then Clark.2 years at Assumption before we moved to O'fallon.Sold newspapers on 25th and State,also 38th.

Frances Burton		04-Dec-2011 23:08
Hi Tomikla,s I think I remember this restaurant. I believe it was across from Courtneys/Rexall Drug store(which was between 26th and 27th, in front of Park Elementary). If this is the same one, I used to love to get the bag of french fries. I remember as a child I always thought tripe was fish!(LOL) I guess since they sold fish I just assumed so (maybe I was thinking of trout), I later found out it was the lining of the cow's stomach I think.

Tomikla		04-Dec-2011 16:59
hello, my Grandmother and her brother ran a restaraunt on State Street I'm not sure what year it opened but I know it was called S&M CarryOut at least from the 60's-70's. Does any one remember that place she had Good burgers and Tripe Sandwiches and not to mention the fish. Her name was Louise Morgan

Chaundelyne		26-Nov-2011 18:24
To the "Guest 16-Nov-2011 18:06" It was called Klauss Coffee Company.

Guest		24-Nov-2011 20:10
To: David Wright Great Post little brother.

Freda Wright-Brown		24-Nov-2011 20:08
Hello Lou Collins. Your name is not familiar, did you live on 24th Market St. I knew some Collins, (Sydney his wife and children). Yes I am the sister of James who married Romey. My brother is now deceased. Hit me back at snuggly602@att.net

David Wright		24-Nov-2011 07:27
Lou Collins , hit me this is David Wright , Freda's brother 404-216-4674

Guest		22-Nov-2011 22:07
I lived at 1808 Summit, across a small vacant lot from Willie Goedecke from the mid 30's until the early 50's. My brother and I raised rabbits - Willie raised lots of rabbits. He owned the Lumber Yard at 19th and College at that time and the brick yard across the street. Herbie Mitchell lived next to me at the corner of 18th and Summit. We both went to Longfellow, Rock Jr High and East Side. Left E.St.L in 1953, moving to Camp Vandeventer. I met a fellow three days ago I hadn't seen in 50 years = he played in E.Sides Band, too.

Guest		16-Nov-2011 18:06
Does anyone remember the name of the bakery on 14th and State Street in the 1950's?

peggy gross		14-Nov-2011 06:03
to rose faulkner---saw ur post--said you live on 1800 belmont and you knew my big sis DONNA GROSS--sissy passed away july 17 2011 --you had to no DARRELL GROSS my big brother he pass in nov.2006 --say if you find this i am on fb peggy gross kruckeberg hope to hear from you or anyone who knew the gross bunch--rose i think i went to collinsville school with ur brother was his name larry----later

Tom Crotzer		09-Nov-2011 22:16
I was born in E. St. Louis in 1950 at Christian Welfare Hospital. My parents were graduates of the old East Side HS. We moved out of the area a couple of years after my birth but moved back to the area in 1966. I have many fond memories from my trips back as a little boy during summer time visits with my grandparents. My uncle owned a drug store at 27th and State Streets and I worked there after school back in 1967 and 1968. It was Courtney Drug Store. If anyone remembers it drop me a line sometime. It's sad what's happened to the town, but I still have a heart for East St. Louis.

Guest		09-Nov-2011 08:43
I was born and raised in ESL (Rush City) until I was 16 (Hughes Quinn Jr. High and Lincoln High sophmore year). Most of my friends were getting in trouble, joining gangs (Vice Lords or Disciples-thank GOD I didnt do that)selling or using drugs and countless other bad things. I used love going downtown with my grand mother to help her shop and be amazed at the business, stores and buildings that was around. I left ESL in 1986 and the last time I went back was in 2006 and was surprised at how a place I grew up in and loved became such a bad place. How can the older generation allow the new generation to let such beautiful place turn like this? Maybe a few years from now, when I look up ESL again, it change for the better. Anyone that went New Era Baptist Church or lived out in Rush City during this time period,please contact me jerome102880@yahoo.com

lou collins		05-Nov-2011 02:50
hey elfredia wright brown . i remember your family . u know my feamily to. james married romey .u remember tee. charles duke sonny? write back

Eggman1068		27-Oct-2011 05:37
It's just a shame. God will judge this like all things. I would hate to be the one responsible.

Lyndee		25-Oct-2011 21:49
Brad Florek, Would you mind emailing me? My email is Lyndeeboo@yahoo.com My Dad passed away when I was 15 from a brain tumor. Growing up whenever we'd visit Washington Park he would tell me some wild stories of his younger days...some were so wild I almost can't believe them! I just wish I would have been "older" for the years that I had him in my life, if that makes sense. There's so much I want to ask, so many stories I want to know more about, but only have small snippets that I can recall since I was so young. One was a story passed on from my Mom, after he'd passed away and I am trying so hard to get to the bottom of it! A few months after he'd started dating my Mom in California, he received a phone call from an Ex-girlfriend and if I understand correctly (My Mom has passed away too, so now that I'm old enough to be curious I don't have anyone to ask), the ex-girlfriend had told him she was pregnant. He flew home because my Mom told him she would never be the 'other Woman'...he returned a few weeks later telling my Mom the ex-girlfriend never had been pregnant. My Mom said they never really spoke of it again and she didn't know the ex-girlfriend's name. I guess, I'm hoping beyond belief that there really WAS another Woman and that I have a sibling somewhere out there!!! I know, chances are slim. BUT, if my dad was as wild as he claimed, maybe it's possible :)

Lyndee		25-Oct-2011 21:06
Brad Florek, Would you mind emailing me? My email is Lyndeeboo@yahoo.com My Dad passed away when I was 15 from a brain tumor. Growing up whenever we'd visit Washington Park he would tell me some wild stories of his younger days...some were so wild I almost can't believe them! I just wish I would have been "older" for the years that I had him in my life, if that makes sense. There's so much I want to ask, so many stories I want to know more about, but only have small snippets that I can recall since I was so young. One was a story passed on from my Mom, after he'd passed away and I am trying so hard to get to the bottom of it! A few months after he'd started dating my Mom in California, he received a phone call from an Ex-girlfriend and if I understand correctly (My Mom has passed away too, so now that I'm old enough to be curious I don't have anyone to ask), the ex-girlfriend had told him she was pregnant. He flew home because my Mom told him she would never be the 'other Woman'...he returned a few weeks later telling my Mom the ex-girlfriend never had been pregnant. My Mom said they never really spoke of it again and she didn't know the ex-girlfriend's name. I guess, I'm hoping beyond belief that there really WAS another Woman and that I have a sibling somewhere out there!!! I know, chances are slim. BUT, if my dad was as wild as he claimed, maybe it's possible :)

Guest		22-Oct-2011 21:29
I was born in Christian Welfare Hospital in 63. My family owned the Geodecke Lumber yard and sawmill. It was located on 19th and Summit. Now I believe it was turned into projects, I really don't know. We lived on N 52nd st. Across from Mitchel's Market. Remembered, my brother and I had a paper route in the early 70's, it covered the area from the Roosevelt homes, to Bunkum Rd to Kingshighway and back up to Creamees.

Vernal Davis		21-Oct-2011 22:34
I miss home,and all my friends and relatives I grew up in the gompers and on 7th street in the 60s how about having a reunion,for coleman plaza,from the 70s,alexenders,blue swan madadors,just to name a few. and all my friends from saint louis mo. that use to dance against me, in contest back then I was the best.VERNAL D.verndv3@aol.com

Tim Keniley		21-Oct-2011 21:15
This message is about Price's Nightmare. I went to school about a block from Price's and used to eat there regularly. The Nightmare was essentially a cheeseburger with chili on it. I think chopped onions may have been optional. My brother remembers the cheese on the sandwich as Swiss. I remember it as American or Cheddar. The Nightmare was almost impossible to eat without a knife and fork. And plenty of napkins! Tim Keniley

Brad Florek		21-Oct-2011 20:11
Hi Lyndee, I remember "Ike" very well. We all hung out together in Washington Park and had some wild times at Club Indigo.

Guest		21-Oct-2011 16:43
To Paul Stacker who posted 22-Aug.2010 Glad to hear of your forward progress. Do you have a sister (Angela) who graduated from the Side in '81? If so, how is she? Happy to hear of the forward progress of my fellow Eastlains. Sanford W.

Lyndee		20-Oct-2011 18:16
Hi, I'm on a fact-finding mission. My Grandparents (Frank and Helen Eiserle) used to live in East St. Louis (can't remember the name of their street, but they were down the road from St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church, I think). My Dad's name was Daniel "Ike" Eiserle and he graduated in 1969. Does anyone remember him?

Lyndee		20-Oct-2011 16:59
Hi, I'm on a fact-finding mission. My Grandparents (Frank and Helen Eiserle) used to live in East St. Louis (can't remember the name of their street, but they were down the road from St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church, I think). My Dad's name was Daniel "Ike" Eiserle and he graduated in 1969. Does anyone remember him?

Tammy McNerney		18-Oct-2011 13:47
My father is Ron Winans. He graduated from ESL Senior High in 1962. He is dying to find out if anyone knows about the Nightmares at Price's Drive In. Please post if anyone remembers or knows what was in these. Thank you!!!

David Wright		16-Oct-2011 02:02
David Wright I went to (old)Alta Sita(Mrs. Austin) , Garfield(up on the Gooses Hill), Carver , Park (Mrs Perkins), Hughes-Quinn (Mr. Thomas)(Mr. Dean), Graduated East Side in 1974 (Mr. Stitt , Mr. Morgan , Coach Perry , and Leroy Ducksworth ) lol East St. Louis is one hell of a place...lol Sweet and sour as they come . My boy "Kippy" Brooks from 22nd Street used to call it the "Black Hole' lmao ! I still call it that . East Boogie , The Boogie , the end of the earth... lol Looks like somebody dropped a nuke on "The Boogie" Home , sweet and sour , home I lived on 29th Street , The Orr Weathers , 22nd Street and Centerville There was a lot of crazy things going on there... but there were also a lot of good things . I was a bad azzed little boy growing up there and got into trouble often . The trouble came from loosing my mind when people tried to bully me . I learned to swim at Lincoln Park , loved fishing at Frank Holden , Horseshoe Lake and the river , the stripp mines. Climbing Red Hill , hopping trains , catching lizards and snakes under the viaduct on 25th near Bond Ave Used to love going to Chahokia Mounds , them concerts at the Shrine were great!Hanging at the Mary Brown Center .I hung out with High Phi High and Rod "Touche Turtle" King , we had a blast The Red Door snoots ,East Side fried rice ,shrimp St. Paul and them tasty jack salmon can only be found in in "The Boogie" I have search the world...lol I learned my trade right there at East Side High . Went on to visit ,live and teach in 11 different countries and coast to coast in the U.S.

Linda		13-Oct-2011 17:35
I came upon this site by accident, but I am glad that I did. I am from E. St. Louis and I do go back to the city. I was raised in the "goose hill" area and graduated from East Side in 1969. I was on the Police Department and I have a BA in Law Enforcement. Remember one thing when you're posting something: you can't help where you were born, but you can make youself better as you age. Things are not always what they appear to be. thank God that you are even alive to make a comment. My mom and a lot of my family still live in East. St. Louis. I'm proud to have a past there, it made me a better person.For Denise Cosby,please contact me if you are related to Mary Ann Brooks or Emma Brooks, I think we are related.

clyde johnson		13-Oct-2011 00:30
i met this brother from east st. louis when i was in the military in 1986.his name was darrylyn byrd. i have looked him up from time to time over the years with no luck.he would be 45 or 46 yrs. old about now.i was wondering if someone from that area could help me out.he was a cool brother who i think of from time to time.im clyde johnson by the way.you can email me at clyderay45@yahoo.com if you can help me.

peggy gross		12-Oct-2011 18:02
oh--i remember walking on collinsville ave--love xmas down there--learn to swim at jones park--lived on baugh ave then move up street from chris.welf.hosp.---then move to belmont--after that to caseyville--

Millie (Tobin) Hodge		12-Oct-2011 05:48
I born at CWH in 1951i lived on 15th street when I was a small child. My father was a General Yardmaster on the Illinois Central RR His name was Clyde we moved to 38th and Waverly. I have many fond memories of E.St.Louis . The 60's and 70's were the best alot of things for teenagers to do and didnt have to be afraid to go any where the drive ins and dancess" I'm proud to be from there I think it has made me a much stronger person because we were taught respect. HI Rose F in Canada come see us sometime' if there is anyone who rembers my family please feel free to contact me

Dan Simpson		10-Oct-2011 18:39
anyone go tto Jefferson School in the late 50's?

Guest		10-Oct-2011 18:34
I'm looking for information on the GAY Inn Located On Bunkum Road. The time frame would be about 1942--1943 but anything abouut the owners type of clbusiness Resturant-Night club ect. I'm doing family genealogy and having trouble getting information.

Portia		09-Oct-2011 06:39
Im a 38yr old resident of E SL an I must say that there is alot of negative tlk about my city... I was born at Christian Welfare Hosp in 1973... Ive lived here all my life n I cant say enough how much I love my city... Yah it is ruff here... But I can say this, Were all surviving off each otha... We can find da time to come together as a city an jus enjoy one anotha... The crime rate is up because we went to school with the police, so basiclly u kno what that means... Only way u goin to jail if u or your parents were nobodys in school or the state comn in... I plan to leave East SL soon but whn they ask me whr im from,, I will hold my head up high with a big smile an say... East St Louis BABY

Guest		07-Oct-2011 20:22
I was born in 1944 at St. Mary's in East St. Louis even though we lived in Belleville. My father grew up in East St. Louis, and they lived in a big home on Missouri Avenue. My grandfather used to work (part time) at Jones Park when he was very old and retired from his regular work. I remember visiting him there and he was in sort of a warehouse/barn looking building. He turned the fountain on every evening and I used to walk to the fountain and wait for it to go on. I felt important because I knew when it was going to go on. I ride the MetroLink train to work in St. Louis, and I was wondering if the park and fountain were still there. Glad to find this site. However, I could never go there due to the danger in East St. Louis. Sad that a city that was so vibrant once is now an empty shell.

Don Druse		04-Oct-2011 21:37
Hello to the guest that was born at Christian Welfare Hosp. I hope you can someday post your name as we grew up in the same area. I was born and raised on 51st street and spent many a nichol at Mitchell's Market and appreciate your recall for all those places I had forgotten. Don

Guest		03-Oct-2011 04:35
I have read many comments and remember many of you. All I can say is I am glad to be away from all of you and your old politically corrupt dump in Illinois.

Guest		01-Oct-2011 02:41
thank you for the walk down memory lane

Guest		30-Sep-2011 16:54
To Guest from Sept 25 You and I grew up in same neighborhood and attended same schools about two years apart. I also went to Rosemont Babtist now and then. Lived on 49th just off Balydere. I remember all those places well. My brother would be one year ahead of you. We eventually moved moved to Washington Park on Hallows. My name is Ron Mifflin and my brother is Rick.

Guest		25-Sep-2011 19:53
Another one of the great people born at Christian Welfare Hospital, 1956. Lived in Rosemont a street called Baleydier. Attended Woodrow Wilson Elementary. Lansdowne Jr. High,and graduated from Belleville West. I also attended Rosemont Baptist Church for years, Brother Tolliver and Brother West. How I remember Kingsway [pizzaburger] Cleves [chili] Hudsons roller rink. Do you remember it cost 30cent to swim all day at Jones Park and the colorful fountain at night was spectacular. Wilson Cygan restraunt sat on Bunkumn Road and Kingshighway 5 cent juke boxes at the tables. Mitchells Market, Beyersdorfer Bakery near Lansdowne. Pochecks IGA, and the Rosemont homecoming behind it. We also had the Washington Park Homecoming. Lots of picnics and reunions at Monk's Mounds Park {cahokia mounds}. How about McGregors Confectionary for the pennie candy caddy corner to wilson school. There is now a sight called Lansdowne reunion on facebook if anybody interested. God Bless this city.

natdalton		22-Sep-2011 21:44
I am in love with these pictures, they bring back memories from my childhood. When we were children my family and I would go to St. Louis to visit my aunt, uncle and their family. These buildings are located on some of the streets we used to frequent. They recently moved out to Washington and now are looking for a new home through tri cities real estate . It makes me sad to think I probably won't ever go back.

Guest		22-Sep-2011 09:49
My dad, William Robert Kinder was from East St. Louis. His sister "Kate" had a diner there for many years back in the 60's and 70's. Also family members own a small grocery store there way back in the 40's and 50's I think. My dad talked about going swimming as a small child, in the great Mississippi. His dad Jackson worked on the railroad. He had two brothers James and Gerald and a sister Elsie (Kate).We visited there several times when I was young and ate at the diner. Big treat for us!!! Barbara Kinder Musgrove

Mike Salinas		21-Sep-2011 21:33
I too have fond memories of East St. Louis and Holy Angels school. Tuesday popcorn days, gym days, hot lunch days, etc. My dad was stationed at Scott AFB and we lived on 41st St. in 1968 and 1969. I had friends named Patty Garcia, Nancy Tonies, Thomas Schnitzius. My teachers in 2nd and 3rd grade were Sister Olga and Mrs. O'brien. I was a big Cardinals fan. I can remember walking around at night on Halloween, etc. with no fears. We used to walk to school, blocks away from our house with no fears. I was sad to hear the school was demolished. Can I get my money back for accidently breaking the church window. :) Years later I now live and work in Houston Tx.

Don Druse		21-Sep-2011 21:11
Hey Tim...that is a lot of info. It is hard to hear about our old friends passing away and I remember Charlie and Dale well. I am doing ok and do enjoy living on the Gulf Coast, hurricanes and all. I am currently working the BP Spill as a safety and health officer and do spend everyday on Alabama's white sand beaches. Tom and I worked together for several years at the DIY Home Center in Granite City and Hill-Behan Lumber Company in St. Louis. He is still in the business and we share emails a few times a week. He has been married to Marla for close to 40 years I would have to guess. I will talk to you soon. Don

Tim Keniley		20-Sep-2011 19:05
Don, Tom, those were fun times at Hannigan's. Haven't heard from many of those individuals since graduarion. Rick Lee and Michelle Carron were living in Seattle. Charlie Smith died in a fall from the Eads Bridge where he was working as a painter. Dale Quante passed this year, no cause of death listed. Bob Jones was playing in St. Louis with a nationally known recording artist. The last I heard Kevin Koesterer was workin as a welder. Some of this information is dated and may not be currently accurate. I'm living in Minneapolis working in Human Services. Keep up with alumni at WWW.alumniclass.com/eaststlouis. Hope you guys are doing well. Tom, did you ever marry Marla? Tim Keniley

lenzie		20-Sep-2011 05:28
Hey Tom! This Lenzie Stewart! Miss ya! Photo Display left out quite a bit! City losing the battle but won't give up! Didn't show new schools, neighborhoods. Let's keep in touch and maybe we can make a difference!

C. Cannon		15-Sep-2011 16:56
I was born and raised in the south end of the city, where i still reside. I also live and bleed the mighty orange & black. Sure we have our ups and downs as any other struggling city, but there is no place i rather call home. I have seen so many changes in the city, some good some bad but it is still and will always be home.

Tom Wigginton		13-Sep-2011 16:09
Hey, Tim Keniley, Its good to know your still kicking. I remember you and Bob jones, Don Druse, Kevin Koesterer, charlie smith, bill cowgill, all hung out at hannigans. Do you know what band bob jones is playing in around st louis. I might like to check it out. E ST Louis was a great town to grow up in. I havent kept in contact with most of the guys I grew up with except my good friend don druse. He let me know about this web site. Do you ever hear from any of those other guys? Have been to any class reunions?

Don Druse		13-Sep-2011 14:50
Hey Tony...I knew the Kimbrells and Steve and Joe. I ran around the Roosevelt Homes a good bit with my friend Tom Wigginton and a few others of us punk kids. Tom was dating Marla Dunn and lived there with her parents and two brothers, Gary and I can't remember the other. Great to hear from you all! Don

Don Druse		13-Sep-2011 14:45
Well Tim...I do remember you now and Ron and was friends with Kevin, aka RAT. I am sure we crossed paths at Kevin's house when his mom and dad were away. Man those were great times and street racing on State Street brings back great memories and stirring some fast car desires. At 62 I still love speed and most of that desire is filled on the water these days. I live on the Alabama Gulf Coast and have for over 30 years. I have thought of Kevin many times and is he still with us?

Tim Kenilet		12-Sep-2011 23:41
Don, I'm sure we crossed paths. I recognized the name when you posted on this site. I'm sure we had mutual friends and acquaintances. My first homeroom at E. Side was in the cafeteria and then in 241B. Pic's study hall. I had a motorcycle and used to park in the back row at Hannigan's with Kevin Koesterer, Ron Prohaska and others. We used to race motorcycles behind Hannigan's. Bob Jones still plays in St. Louis with other prominent St. Louis musicians. Tim Keniley

Tony. Houston.		11-Sep-2011 20:59
For Don, Yes, I am still out here. Did you know my cousins the Kimbrells? How about my brother Steve or Joe? Earl Ridgway is married to my little sister Gloria and they live in Pearl Mississippi.

Guest		11-Sep-2011 17:13
linda jines thats a name i havent heard in a long time my grandparents lived across the street from your dad clyde cool breeze if i remember correctly

Cynthia		09-Sep-2011 05:46
Hello everyone. I am researching my family history. recently, I was sent a death certificate for my uncle, who was living (and killed) in East St. Louis in 1940. Did any of your relatives remember a murder that happened on 3rd and St. Louis ave? My uncle's name was Emmitt Gaines and he was shot. I'm trying to find out anything. I know it's a long shot to possibly receive any information but I wanted to try. Thanks. Cynthia

Don Druse		05-Sep-2011 15:49
Hey Tim...we had to cross paths many times. I was a back row guy at Hannigan's, also. I do remember Bob Jones and he may of played with us at some point. Don

Guest		05-Sep-2011 03:02
I was born and raised in South Shore on the south side of Chicago but spent many summers in E. St. Louis visiting relatives as a kid. My father actually bought a house for us to move to ESL during the late '60's/early 70's at 3025 Waverly but my mother vetoed the idea. My father ended up leaving my uncle (who owned and handled properties in ESL at the time) in charge of the property and they rented it out to various tennants until sometime in the 90's when they sold it. A YouTube member sent pics of the house to me via e-mail and the house is still standing. I remember the old National Supermarket at 10th and State because I used to walk to it with my cousins who lived at 11th & Summit. I also remember going out to Grandpa's Discount Store when it was on Collinsville Rd. in Fairmount City (??), I loved that store it had everything!! I can't remember the name but it was a Chinese Food take out at 24th and State that had the best Shrimp-fried rice next to Chicago. (I wish I had a St. Paul sandwich right now hahahh!!.) I used to ride bikes with my cousins to Pirtle's on Ridge Ave. for Vess sodas, Sundance Corn Chips and Now & Laters. People dupe on East St. Louis but I had much fun the weeks I spent there every year and never had any trouble with anyone there,even the last time I went there everything was cool! Long live LOVE 14 WESL!!

Louis Williams, Jr.		03-Sep-2011 23:25
I graduated from Lincoln High Schooln January of 1961. Charles Powell and I were the co-captains of the football team that year. I am proud to say that I was the 1959 captain and 1960 co-captain with Charlie. I later attended The University of Iowa obtaining a Masters Degree in education. When I look at these photos of past it breaks my heart. If I had to live my childhood again, I would do it in East St. Louis and Lincoln High. In 1960 we were "The Greatest" football group in the town's history. I have spent a whole like thanking God for the people I new there. God bless us all and bless East St. Louis. Louis Williams, Jr. If any of my classmates read this, you can reach me at lac.williams@yahoo.com.

Guest		03-Sep-2011 19:57
I worked at the Tom Boy store on bond ave in Allorton in the late seventies. I was a meatcutter and came from St Louis everyday to work. When i first started, i was really skepticle after hearing so many bad things going on, but after a while i notice that there were more kind people in a small area than i had ever seen. The people were freinlier and going home after work i never seen people laying all over the street until i would cross the bridge. Then i would see people all over in st louis. Well i became a advocate for east st louis. I stop looking at the run down condition and focussed on the people. They were nice to me.

Tim Keniley		02-Sep-2011 21:44
I worked at Stoplight restaurant with Jimmie Near. He went to E.Side in the 60's and sang in a local group around '66-'67. He was always singing the song "Poison Ivy". Tom Wigginton should remember me. He let me play his drums at his house. I was with Bob Jones, who also graduated from E. Side in '68, he played in the local band "Pheonix". My group used to hang out in the back of Hannigan's lot near the ball diamond. Your right, those were good old days. Good to hear from others who survived the war years. T. Keniley

Don Druse		02-Sep-2011 14:05
Jimmy Near did not play in the Cobras but the name is familiar. Also...I lived in Rosemont. Just saw the post from Tom Wigginton...drummer and sang in the Cobras. Those were Happy Days!

Don Druse		02-Sep-2011 14:02
To T. Keniley...I did go to East Side in the 60's and graduated in 1968. I do recognize all of the people mentioned and loved to drag race on State Street in a 1968 yellow Dodge Magnum Coronet. I left more than my share of burnt rubber in Hannigan's parking lot. I remember the three wheeler. Don

Tom Wigginton		01-Sep-2011 17:35
I grew up in ESL from 1950 to 1968. I went to e side high, played football from 1966 to 1968. I hung out at Hannigans almost every saturday night.I loved E ST LOUIS,it was a great place to live. I lived on Douglas street off 38th street. I had many good neighbors and friends.

T. Keniley		31-Aug-2011 23:38
To: Don Druse Did you go to E.Side in the 60's? Lived in Washington Park? I used to hang out at Hannigan's in the late 60's with Charlie Smith, Dale Quante, Doug Cook, et al. Did Jimmie Near play in the Cobra's? I graduated from E.Side in 1968. Do your remember Earnie Bovinette, the E.St. Louis police officer, who used to ride the three wheeler. He patrolled State Street and ticketed drag racers around Hannigan's. Chased more than a few right into Hannigan's lot. Tim Keniley

Don Druse		30-Aug-2011 20:49
Did anyone hang-out at Hannigan's on State Street and street race on State Street every Friday and Saturday nite?

Don Drsue		30-Aug-2011 20:29
Should have read Band the Cobras not bak...sorry.

Don Druse		30-Aug-2011 18:57
Tony..if you are still out there I also knew the Mifflins,Ridgway and the rest. Yes...I was a neighborhood punk kid with greasy hair and I wouldn't change any of that for anything. Those were good days! Don Druse 51st Street PS...does anyone remember the local bak the Cobras? We played all over the area and at East Side Pep Rallys

Guest		30-Aug-2011 17:22
I was born at St Mary's Hospital (1949) and lived there until I was about 21 or 22 yrs old. I graduated from East St Louis (East Side) Sr High in 1968. The city was dying even back then. Don Druse Alabama

carl carpenter		30-Aug-2011 03:47
those pics bring back so many mem. mom and I used to walk down there in the early 60's and now you should see it :( :(

Donna Valentine		27-Aug-2011 19:06
Grew up in E.St.L. graduated from E.St.L. High School in '63....the school was three years old.

Chaundelyne		27-Aug-2011 00:32
To: Sanford Hello, I'm the guest from 10 May 2011 12:03. Wow..., well you do know that area well for sure. I know where that hole is you're talking about, lol. It's in the center of everything, at least thats the way I like to remember it. It sits diagonally across from the Villa Griffin Homes, directly across Waverly from the Lansdowne Towers, smack dab in the center of North Park Drive, lol. You know, I saw old photos of that very area some 20+ yrs ago when they were building the Villa Griffins, I believe it was the 1950's era I was reviewing and I swear, that damn hole was there then believe it or not. So the family that owned the Laundromat at 25th & Lincoln owned the other store across from the B&P huh..., wow! I'm surprised both stores survived being so close to each other especially since it appeared the other store had more to offer than the B&P. But then again, the B&P offered in store credit to select customers which is probably something the other store didn't offer, hmmmm...! Yanno, some generation of that family that owned the laundromat still live there today. It's still a fortress the last I saw also. All I can think of is..., DAMN! what ever is sentimental about that place must truly be just that because for them to still live there now and crime is "FAR WORSE" now than when you lived there too..., they deserve there kudos for remaining residents of that building so many years after closing that laundromat. I also remember a lady that lived in a rear apartment of that building which was just steps away from the green garage door and I don't know how long she lived there. However, when she moved, that green door was sealed with a green board, lolol... only to never again be opened or rented to anyone else within the community, EVER!

Guest		26-Aug-2011 19:43
My dad worked at the National Stock Yards Hotel in the 30's & 40's. In the mid 50's I worked in the main office of Swift & Co.

sanford		25-Aug-2011 16:43
To the Guest who posted on 10 May 2011 12:03. I lived in that area on 25th monroe ave. in the 70s and 80s. I too remember that large brick building on the corner of 25th and Lincoln ave that housed the laundramat. I think that in the 70s, the family that lived there also owned the store that sat facing Waverly ave at 25th street. My bike was stolen in front of that store but fortunately I was able to keep up with the kid enough to see what yard he rode into and went to the house and got it back. Anyway, I remember playing football and baseball in 'The Hole' as we called it. It was a recessed green area lined with wheeping willow trees bordered by N. Pk. Dr. and Waverly ave. I could go on and on recounting the good memories of my childhood in E. St. Louis, it will suffice to say that it is and always will be home! Sanford

Chaundelyne		23-Aug-2011 13:38
To NV: I'm kinda wondering if you're referring to the old SCC(State Community College)Bldg. The only other landmark I can think of in that area would be the old Union Bank Bldg., but it's really not so huge. I'm taking the liberty of posting a youtube clip of something that does feature a bit of E. St. Louis in its hey day. This clip is one of several showcasing "Katherine Dunham" and her contributions throughout her life particularly when making reference to East St. Louis. I found out recently that some of the clippings within the suggested clip are from the film "All American City" that was produced in 1959 all about ESL and in "LIVING COLOR", lol. The title posted below is as follows... KETC \| Living St. Louis \| Katherine Dunham You can simply type or cut & paste the above info in the youtube search engine box and it should appear without delay!

Guest		23-Aug-2011 02:33
My Grandfather had the feed company in the Stock Yards. He was very proud of E St L My Dad worked as and electrician for 43 years - good and bad. You have had to been raised there to know the connection we have for the people who grew up there. I have wonderful memories of it.

NV		20-Aug-2011 16:04
Does anyone know what the building was/is at Collinsville and Missouri Aves. that is huge, L-shaped and has a castle-looking tower on it? I do a lot of blogging about historical architecture and would love to find out some info on this building. Thanks!

Tim Keniley		19-Aug-2011 02:50
To: Phyllis Dinan Diprima So happy to hear that Henry's still alive. I responded to a previous post that said Henry had passed due to a gunshot wound. I quwss Mark Twains' quote about news that his death has been greatly exagerated certainly applies here. I went to Sacred Heart grade school with Henry.We were altar boys and played softball toghether. My older brother went to Assumption with Tim Dinan. I remember going to the Dinan's Grill on St. Clair Avenue. Some of the best chili in East St. Louis. Wish Henry and the Dinan family well. Tim Keniley, MLPS, MN

Daniel		18-Aug-2011 22:07
My best friend here in St. Louis had a grandfather that was associated with East St. Louis public schools. He may have been superintendant or something...In fact the old Manners grade school was named after him as the family name was "Manners" the family too owned a Tack shop on State street which was later converted to making car tops and upholstery after cars came about. Are any of you familiar with this business? We have one old picture in front of the building. We also have documents from the Manners school if I'm not mistaken, i will have to ask.

Phyllis Dinan DiPrima		17-Aug-2011 23:46
I have read some of the items about my brother Henry Dinan. Henry is still alive and living in Belleville with his with Nora (Horner). He has two sons and one grandson.

Chaundelyne		14-Aug-2011 00:38
To: Daniel In answer to your question on locating more history on East St. Louis, you may wanna check the East St. Louis Public Library. I know many years ago they kept lots of things on the history of East St. Louis even artifacts of old crimes that had been stored on microfiche. I'm not sure of how much info maybe available as of now because I was informed that when the old library was closed in 2000 there were many things left behind and allot of what was left was old artifacts about the city that had been destroyed through water damage and other elements of mother nature. You may still want to check the newest East St. Louis Library just in case there maybe things there that just might be worth a look or two at all!

Guest		13-Aug-2011 20:47
Mr. Burton, could that have been Sandefur Bakery where you were employed?

Elfredia Wright-Brown		13-Aug-2011 18:43
I too was born in St. Mary's Infirmary in St. Louis in 1947, but was raised in ESL. My parents were James and Mary Wright (both deceased) and my siblings were James (deceased), Robert White (deceased), Beulah Wright, Harvey and David. My brother James also attended Rock Jr High, the old ESide and the new ESide, his nickname was 'Killer' (I never understood that one). My brother Robert White owned a fish market on 26th Bond and on State Street. He was the security officer at ESide. He was known as "Rev Boathouse" or Fishman. His step son Warren Herring played football at the side. My niece Jaki Wright still works at the side. I was blessed with 3 great children Cassandra Stovall-Jackson (deceased), Mary Wright and Anthony Jackson (played basketball at Clark Jr. High - nickname 'High Flying Jack'. I loved growing up in ESL. I have a long story to tell about my upbringing the the 'Boogie'. I was raised in the 2200 Block of Tudor before moving to 2605 Market St. My mother Mary Wright is my true she-ro. When I graduated from Alta Sita Elementary School, they had boundaries as to where we could go to school. At that time the only schools we knew about were Rock and Hughes Quinn. Well, the black students were shipped to Hughes-Quinn and the caucasion went to Rock. I was very dissatisfied with this because I had never gone to an all black school and felt out of place. I began to act out because I didn't want to be there (no smoking or drinking, just disrespectful to Mrs. Quinn and other teachers). I told my mother I would rather go to reform school than to go to that school another year. Weeelllll, in 1960 my mother led a team of 4 other mothers in the Alta Sita District(Mrs. Stallings, Mrs.Rodgers(caucasian), Mrs. Allen, T-Pearl)to fight the School Board of Dist 189. They were on the news and had newspaper acknowledgements with pictures. They picketed that school for an entire summer just to get the 'less fortunate' as they called us, into a better school. The principal at the time was Mr. Compton. They called police to the school to put the mothers out, they would lock the doors so they could not enter, they were called names - all to no avail because these mothers did not stop the fight. One news reporter asked my mother was she involved in politics or any other group and her answer was 'no, I'm just a mother who want my children to get a better education than I did'. My mother had an 8th grade education while being raised in Paducah, KY. To make a longer story short, John Sturgenal, the Superintendant of the district, called the school with a proposition for dear mom. She was told by the principal that the superintendant said they could take her daughter (me) and 5 others but no more. This little 5'0" woman stood her ground and with a grin proudly answered 'NO', you have to take them all. Thus the era was started for negro children from the Alta Sita District to attend Clark Jr. High School. I graduated from ESide in 1965 and felt more than proud of my mom. Because of her, my brothers, my children and others were able to attend a school that was masked by the Board Prayerfully there is someone on this site that may remember her. If not, I do and I miss her dearly. Someone wanted to know the name of the convenience store on the corner of 15th Broadway -it was Fraziers.

John Burton		12-Aug-2011 12:00
I was born at St Mary's in 1953. I attended Holy Angels where I was a Alter Boy, later went to ST Philips, and Assumption High. I work at the Stoplight Resturant and at Sanford bakery. I remember swimming at Jones park, and attending the St Louis Cards game while riding the big red express.

Daniel		09-Aug-2011 18:58
I was in st. louis at a used bookstore and found a copy of "East St. Louis" The way it is..It is a history book on East St. Louis and about 250 pages. How excited I was to find it. I never lived there but I love East St. Louis..then and today...Does anyone know if any other history books were written on East St. Louis? I ran around East St. louis when the book was written in 1991. What an exciting place and not one person ever bothered me.

Guest		09-Aug-2011 18:44
I was born at St.Mary's Hospital in East Saint Louis 1960 and lived on the corner of Regent Avenue and 32nd Street with my parents and 4 sisters from 1960-1971. I have a lot of good memories of East Saint Louis back then. Went to Hawthorne Elementary School and I remember there was a Catholic School across the street Holy Angels and a Middle School next door to Hawthorne. There was a bakery next to Hawthorne school that we passed by everyday on our way to school. There was a nice park a few blocks away West of our house my older sisters probably remember more than I do.

Chaundelyne		31-Jul-2011 21:21
To Tim Keniley Wow..., thanx for that tidbit Tim. I surely appreciate it dearly, the more info you've given about that restaurant. Yanno..., the fast food stoplight was right across from assumption before it became a prison, lol...! I know the original stoplight was a bit down the ways from St. Clair because I recall seeing the sign of the original stoplight which sat I believe right next to the train track down there, that use to be down there that is on kingshighway. As for the Majestic..., well that was certainly before my time. I was born in 1965 so the majestic was closed 5yrs before I was born, lol. I heard many stories about it though just as so as I've about the original stoplight restaurant. I've been trying to find ancient aerial maps of East St. Louis during that time and hopefully some that will offer a birdseye view of the area at that time so i could see the area as it was nevermind seeing the area before I-64, LMAO. Now that one I've heard stories about for sure. I was told that people use to fly through E. St. Louis during the construction of I-64 and was well informed that was an area to see honey, that and the stockyards. I'd surely love to see the stockyards in its heyday too!

T. Keniley		27-Jul-2011 01:44
To: Chaundelyne The original Stoplight restaurant was a full service restaurznt, nicely decorated with a full bar. They served steaks, seafood and had a couple of large dining rooms. Most people came there for the chicken dinners especially on Sunday afternoons. When I worked there Assumption high school across St. Clair Avenue was still a boys school. I went to E. Side and when I left Stoplight, in my senior year, I went to work at the Missoour Athletic Club across the Eads Bridge in St. Louis for a hefty $1.60 an hour. I remember listening in disbelief at my parents and gradparents when they would talk about going to the Majestic Theater on Collinsville Ave for 10 cents and buying a hamburger for 15 cents. Now, I seem to be experiencing the same sticker shock.

Chaundelyne		25-Jul-2011 06:20
To: Tim Keniley Wow..., I certainly wouldn't remember those days of the original stoplight restaurant, though I've heard plenty about it though. However, the "fast food stoplight restaurant" is now a thing of the past also. I believe it's doors shut in 1999 or 2000, something like that. What a nice tidbit about the chicken though...., Wow!!

Guest		19-Jul-2011 14:20
RE: mama peg, as mentioned by brendarich. I'm wonder if this is the same game we played, both at home and at school, that we called mumbly peg in the 40's. All you needed was dirt and a pocket knife. Hard to imagine today that it was acceptable for both boys and girls to bring their pocket knives to school for a game of mumbly peg at recess. This would have been Park School in the late 40's.

Tim Keniley		19-Jul-2011 02:49
This is for the person who asked about the recipe for Stoplights fried chicken. I worked there when I was in high school. My starting wage was $1.25 an hour, the minimum wage at the time. A Snickers bar was 5 cents and a 2 Hostess cup cake package was 12 cents. If my memory serves me correctly, the price for an all you can eat chicken dinner at Stoplight was $3.25. This included chicken, potato, vegetable and rolls. The price of a beverage was seperate. On occasion, when a large reservation was cancelled at the last minute or it was a slow night there would be chicken left over and the employees were free to take it home with them. The recipe for the chicken was not widely known. The head cook or the owner would come in when the restaurant was closed and mix the flour with seasonings. I never had the opportunity to be advised of the seasoning mixture. The chicken was dipped in powdered milk, rolled in flour and deep fried. I was told that there was a fire at the original Stoplight and that there is a fast food restaurant there now. The same family that owned Stoplight also owned the Trailways restaurant in Farview Heights and the Candlelight restaurant in West Belleville. I don't know if either of those restaurants are still open but if you enjoyed Stoplights chicken it would be worth a phone call. During the X-mas holidays, the owners would close the restaurant for a night and have a holiday party for all of the employees and their families. Very generous.

brendarich		16-Jul-2011 14:55
THIS IS A REPOST FROM ... 22-Mar-2009 23:25 =================================== I'm so happy to have found this board. Just today, I was frantically looking on Facebook trying to connect back to my High School Friends .. those who I can remember smile .. I was born in 1947 at St. Mary's Infirmity Hospital in St. Louis, MO. But, of course we lived in East Saint Louis. I think all the babies from East Saint Louis were born there. So, I'll say, "I was born and raised in East Saint Louis". I lived there with my Father, StepMother and six siblings at various addresses; one being 1100 Baker Avenue and a "D" Street in the South End. When I was six years old, the entire block on one side of D Steet burned to the ground. So, they took me from my first grade class, from John Robinson school where I attended; and I along with others .. stood there and watched our houses burn down to the ground. Of course, the Red Cross got involved and soon we were moving into a brand new development which was still under construction. Our new home was called, the John DeShields Homes; located on the other side of 12th and Bond Avenue (on the back side of Lincoln Senior High School). We were one of the first families to move into the John DeShields Homes. Growing up in East Saint Louis was natural and normal for me. I was raised in a Pentecostal Environment and not allowed to engage in "worldly" things with "worldly" people; so I grew up stand offish, very shy and very naive. As a little girl, my Step-Mother worked for a dentist named, Dr. Davis on 15th and Broadway street .. he was Miles Davis Father. Once we visited the Davis' Milstead Farm. As a child, I remember being surrounded with very lively, warm, loving, strict, no nonsense people. Yes, there was chaos too, by some people's standards; but "order" was a surety and I always felt safe. We were not in a threatning environment. We even slept outside when it was too hot inside. We never locked our doors; and even slept with the doors open. I had a fun childhood. We jumped double dutch, played hop scotch and we had a play ground right in front of our house. I loved the swing sets and the sliding boards .. oh and yes, we played Momma peg. Those were fun days .. I remember the drug store on the corner of 15th and Bond Avenue .. right across from John Robinson elementary School and across from St. Paul Baptist Church. In my mind's eye, I can still see the man who ran the store; but, I can't remember His name. We used to get an ice cream cone for a nickel .. and a piece of candy for a penny .. and a cookie for a penny .. I remember the Rock Way (another store) a few steps away .. where we also bought ice cream, candy and cookies .. My childhood memories are wonderful! Ike and Tina Turner used to rehearse in one of the houses across the walkway .. it was fun, peeking in .. i also peeked into the Kathryn Dunham dance school rehearsals in the Center across from our house .. we had a basketball court right there in front of our house, right across from Lincoln High School where I later attended. I can remember hearing the tardy bell ringing and running from my door to be inside my classroom in a few seconds. I started school at John Robinson Elementary, then to Hughes Quinn Junior and of course, then to Lincoln Senior High. We walked everywhere; our everywhere was to school and to church; sometimes downtown and sometimes to 15th and Broadway to eat Johnny Wong's Chinese food! Our church was in the South End on "I" street (a great distance) but, we walked from 12th and Bond Avenue to 1900 "I" street. We went to Church on Wednesday Night, Friday Night, and 3 times on Sunday; and sometimes in between those times for choir rehearsals and usher board meetings etc. It was not a problem or an option; it was our way of life. We were duty bound, and when it was time to go to Church, we went to Church!! As I look back today, I know living my life in East Saint Louis put character into me; and strength and stamina and a triple dose of an "i can get through anything" kind of spirit. I think East Saint Louis can only be loved and appreciated by those who "lived" and "loved" there. I believe East Saint Louisians; past, present and future are a special breed, a one of a kind destined people. Intertwined in the very soul of us are our hopes, dreams, and memories; be they good, bad, or ugly; all because of being there! All because of living our lives there! I believe East Saint Louis has given birth to and DNA'd into our very being the essence of who we are today. I thank God for my roots in East Saint Louis; and am very happy to say, "YES" .. East Saint Louis is my Hometown. ================= LINCOLN HIGH SCHOOL FACEBOOK .. http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/81283574016?ap=1

tremrzz1186		15-Jul-2011 16:24
Ive read and is still reading the post from present and most past residence of East Saint Louis all i have to write is: A little back ground on me:: 1959 Born. raised in South End in the 70.s 17th street to be exact Grad HQ, and Lincoln 1977.. Marines until 80;s still visit;s the RED DOOR every 4th of july when I roll in...Thats my home until the end, I just live some were else... ( ONE LOVE ) aww ghost_viper1186@yahoo.com East Saint Louis Illinios::: A relentless city, With a hard line.. For the slightest offense, Pay the ultimate fine.. Shed not one tear, For this city of fear... With my head held up, I breath~Im here.. Band by the hand, This fierce piece of land.. Blood Sweat and Tears, By no man fears.. Locked and Rocked to the fellas I speak, Stay strong young hearts~ and to all keep "P.E.A.C.E"

Guest		15-Jul-2011 13:42
To 09-July 2011 poster Kim. Sounds familiar, so I'm wondering if you had a grandma Dorothy who retired from the W T Grant store.

Kathy west Gardner		11-Jul-2011 22:06
I was born at Christian Welfare Hospital and raised in E.St Louis aka East Boogie! I went to Monroe, Park, King, Clark and graduated from East Side. My family still lives in the surrounding area of Ofallon. I often go home to visit but sometimes I am very disappointed in the way the city now looks. The politicians have not cared enough to kept it up nor make it better. I know there is potential and that it will get better so I am waiting for that to happen. When I go home I go straight to 24th street to the Chinese restaurant to get an order of Pork Fried Rice with Egg Foo Yung gravy it is the best Chinese food in town! Next stop is WHITE CASTLE then the RED DOOR on St. Clair! Got to have it. Here in Atlanta, there is no castle only krystal and it is nasty....lol. My hubby and I just left E. St.Louis where we celebrated the 4th of July with my family and it was wonderful! Before returning to the ATL, I always stop to get several bags of Fiesta's, Red Hot Riplets and Ole Vienna Cheese popcorn to take back with me !...yyyeeeesssss, how I miss home!......I have great memories:) Looking forward to going back home again around the holidays........

ken sullivan		11-Jul-2011 15:06
I too was born and raised in E.St.Louis,St Mary's Hospital 1956,lived at 1355 N.42nd St.,attended Holy Angels Catholic School at 37th and Caseyville Ave.,and have many many fond memories of a city that was,but is no longer. Having an intense interest in history has taught me that the problems this once "All American" city face cannot be pinned on one particular issue,most commonly race. It's many issues that led to the death of E.St.L. Corrupt politicians,corporate greed,union busting (labor riots 1917),and of course fanning the racial flames a result certainly didn't help. All of these negative elements came together in sort of a 'perfect storm' leaving in it's wake what we all see today. Study and understand the historical facts,and you'll realize how it happened. The bigger question is what to do about it now. That's best left up to the remaining citizens of E.St.Louis....when they've FINALLY had enough,change will come.

kim stanis		09-Jul-2011 19:47
I grew up in ESL from 1961-1973 then moved to belleville. My parents graduated from east side in 1960. We lived at 69th and state st. My father was an ESL police officer from I think 1970-1990. I know he was there for 20 years.

Guest		08-Jul-2011 01:18
What's UP! East Boogie is home and alway's will be. Born in 1961, Class of 1979. Lived in Washing Park, and grew on 29th in Bond. No matter how successful I may get, I will never forget or look down on my hometown. I received my education at Alta Sita, Lansdown, East Side, and SIUE. Master's from Webster University. I go home to East St. Louis twice a year to get a snoot, some fried rice and to party at the Club Allusion. My favorite to go roller skating at the former Skate King. Most people don't know that many people who come from East St. Louis are educated and have college degree's. We are smart, educated, fun and street wise. Lets buy some of that new development for our children and grandchildren. PS You have a true friend if he/she is from East St. Louis IL. East Boogie Native! Hopgood

Guest		06-Jul-2011 01:21
All I can say is wow to many of the comments here on this blog. I am taken aback by the large number of responses from so many who at one time lived or still live in ESTL. To those who have experienced pain and experience hate. Let it go. Turn that engergy to saving the place you still have hope for. And those who lived here at a time of transition, used your past to bring hope to those that need it...like me. I have a dream of taking back the city from the politians and people who don't want anything or any good thing to happen to so many good residents still here. I am one of them. I own property here. I wanted to leave so many times but I feel as if God wants to do a work here. God cares for us all. A lot of the mess that many of you talked about is caused by man. Not just one, not just one color/race. It doesn't matter how it all started or what made thing good or bad for ESTL. But what does matter now is if people as yourselfs will lend your time and help to bring back a city that we all care about? A city that we all have roots in. A city that can be restored to all races. We all know that a great deal of the history of ESTL. We know what a happened. Now let's get beyond that an join forces to make it alive and well again. I have a vision and yes, I'm a dreamer. God has given me a dream and I'm glad I found this site today. E-mail me it you'd like to understand more of my dream. I could use the support and any positive feed back. My e-mail address is - brandxmanz2@att.net. Thanks people of ESTL and those of you spread around the country. It's great to make a connection. :-) David Lark

G. Stokes		01-Jul-2011 22:26
Looking for any and all old friends....Hawthorne, Lansdowne, East Side graduate 1961. Lived at 39th & North Park Drive. Baseball / Basketball at East Side. Jazz Musician living in Ca. I would like to hear from you...G. Stokes

Chaundelyne		01-Jul-2011 19:27
Hello! This reply is to the following message posted below... "guest 23-Jun-2011 09:58 My family lived in E. St. Louis for many years. We moved to Belleville about 1963. We lived on 35th and State. I went to 1st grade at Park. When did it burn down? I would love to ride with a police officer down through the old city." Actually, you can research the websites of Google Earth and Microsoft Virtual Earth. If you can locate these without any issues..., you'll learn how to navigate it for better convenience. Through those programs once downloaded correctly..., you can actually see images as they appear in real time and see areas of the city and you can do it right from your computer, lol. I've not been back home in several years but learned of the websites a couple of years ago and boy did I have a good time on my journey roaming through home on my PC, lolol. If your software is working and PC is "top~notch" you'll be able to see lots more than you bargained for. Try it out!

Guest		28-Jun-2011 18:55
We were at 1517 North 42nd Street, attended Hawthorne and Landsdowne. Born 1958, left for most of high school.

Guest		28-Jun-2011 16:38
A Guest posted way back 22 Mar 2010 asking about others I didn't know and Sonny Reed who is my father Alvin. He is fine and living outside of Alton IL.

Guest		28-Jun-2011 16:26
In 2000, as part of their 50th class reunion activities, the class of 1950 rented a bus and did a 3-4 hour tour of East St Louis. The driver divided the city by sections and everyone called out what they wanted to see.....schools, churches, hang-outs, shopping areas, individuals homes,etc. A rest stop was made at Ainad temple where even more memories were enjoyed.

Ron		27-Jun-2011 16:29
Does anyone remember the Blue Platter that was just down the street from Grubers Drug Store in Washington Park. Or Tasty BBQ off of North Park Drive. They had the best chicken club sandwiches.

Guest		26-Jun-2011 16:05
I too went to Park School, 1944-1950. Ms Lavina Donaldson was our principal. She is always remembered for her purple hair. We enjoyed going out for lunch to Timmers Grill, Courtney's Drug Store, Canges & Mother's Restaurant. Hot lunch was served once a week by volunteer PTA moms.

TexanTimm		23-Jun-2011 16:40
Jeannie's brings back great memories. I grew up in Loisel Village, and we would eat there once in a while. I remember the pink elephant wall paper in the restroom. This was back in the 60's. We didn't have "fast food pizza" back then.

guest		23-Jun-2011 09:58
My family lived in E. St. Louis for many years. We moved to Belleville about 1963. We lived on 35th and State. I went to 1st grade at Park. When did it burn down? I would love to ride with a police officer down through the old city.

Guest		12-Jun-2011 21:57
A recent guest poster mentioned Jeannie's, which was on outer State Street. Old family story. When Jeannie first applied for her liquor license, she hadn't decided on a name for her restaurant. So when filling out the application, she wrote in the name of the establishment...Jeannie's ?. When her license arrived in the mail, it was made out to "Jeannie's ? or Jeannie's Question Mark" Thus it was often called Jeannie's Question Mark

Ms. Bolden		10-Jun-2011 00:15
This site is about East St. Louis and everyone on here is entitled to his or her own opinion. I am a 28 year old female from ESL, born and raised. I grew up in the Samuel Gomper Homes (projects)and yes there was crime. As a child I always thought to myself, I just wanna get away; I knew that every neighborhood could not be this way. As I got older, the criminals that were causing all the problems were either dead or in jail. The neighborhood became peaceful. We could sleep without hearing gun shots, play outside without being caught in a drive by, it was just fun. My friends and other people I knew in the neighborhood were not illiterate, they understood and comprehended just as any other kids our age in the metro east. Of course there are some exceptions to the rule and yes some people cant read or write but I didnt know those people. I was fortunate enough to not only grow up with loving caring people but play sports and graduate with them as well. I am proud that many of the students I graduated with are teachers, doctors, lawyers, engineers, and they are all from ESL. While I do know that crime is high in ESL, (mainly due to poor economic situations, I also know that there are very smart and intelligent people in ESL who's only crime, is seemingly to be blk, poor and from ESL. If you lived in ESL for a year and actually interacted with the community you would see for yourself that you can be happy in city as the one you describe. I am aware that writing styles and figurative language allows some of you to be very detailed in describing my home town; but I assure you, my city is not a thrid world country (as you would have people believe based on your posting). I did move out the city, because I have always envisioned living in an intergrated neighborhood, and my children attending integrated schools; but I dont love my city any less. God Bless ESL, and God Bless You

Nicki Lewis		08-Jun-2011 15:49
Hi! I was born and raised in East St. Louis in the '80s and '90s, and have recently become interested in the city's history. Can anyone tell me where Lansdowne Park was located (i.e. specific street names)? There was a beautiful old walking bridge near my childhood home, which spanned a small, dried out creek. The bridge did not lead to any particular location, but because it was located in an expansive lot with lots of trees, I assumed it must've been part of an old park or something. Because I lived in the Lansdowne District, I assumed it may have been part of Lansdowne Park. Can anyone help?

Guest		04-Jun-2011 15:21
I believe lots of things can be built if you throw enough government money at it. However, as we have seen in the past, it never lasts and just amounts to another boondoggle financed by the taxpayer

Guest		03-Jun-2011 02:52
I lived in E. St. Louis until 1965 (age 10) and can remember Harding Elementary (Mrs. Plummer, Mrs. Hoyt, Miss Kurelaitis, Mr. Moore), Price's, Jeannie's (up the hill towards Belleville, I think). Also, my Dad used to take me to a place I think was called Atomic BBQ. Jayson's photos really caught my eye when I recognized the entrance to the Murphy Bldg. where my Dad had his office. I have only been back once in all these years, but I have really good memories of my childhood there. Just wondering if anyone remembers any of the people/places I mentioned, or might have photos.

Guest		29-May-2011 13:18
What was that secret ingredient in the the Nightmare hamburger at Price's restaurant on St Clair Ave? We sure ate a lot of those in the 50's.

I Believe		27-May-2011 20:09
Port of East St. Louis coming soon south riverfront location next to Sauget. 350-450 full time living wage jobs. Slay Industries/Kinder Morgan will be the port operators. Look them up. Downtown Central Business District redevelopment starting with streetscapes, cameras installed, etc. Beginning June, 2011. They have already had one Pulbic Hearing in this regard. More to come. Industrial Park development in the north riverfront location. Underway. (Goose Hill Neighborhood). New Mississippi River Bridge will connect St. Louis to East St. Louis at this location. It seems to me that most of you (especially the nay-sayers) have no idea about what's going on in that City. They actually have H.J. Russell New Urban Development out of Atlanta (the developers who did Olympic Park in Atlanta for the Olympic Games)in the City leading the development efforts. Broadview Hotel, and the Union Bank Building will get started this summer. When a city gets to the point that ESL is (lowest point), it only has two options. Either it will dissolve itself, or it will revitalize itself. I am inclined to believe the latter rather than the former is more realistic...especially from what I have verified is currently taking place there, and obviously unbeknownst to most of you. I BELIEVE

Tony Kopcych (Cop-Check)		14-May-2011 05:14
Tony Kopcych (Cop-Check) I lived in Caseyville, but graduated from E.ST. Louis Sr High in Jan 1959. I went to both the old school downtown next to Sears and the new school. I remember hanging out at Prices. 1958,1959, and 1960 I was a lifeguard at Jones Park. I was on duty that day in 1960 when C.O.R.E. decided to integrate Jones Swimming Pool. One of my friends who was NOT a racist got caught in the middle of it and lost his job. I left the area in 1961 going into the navy for 4 years then stayed in Hawaii for another 3 years getting a degree at the University of Hawaii. I got back to E.St.Louis in 1969. I tried to find old friends but they had all moved out of the area due to racial problems. The swimming pool was filled in with dirt and the tennis courts across the street, where I had actually played tennisw with a 7 year old Jimmy Connors, was covered with weeds and vines. The whole town looked like a war zone. Family members told me not to drive in E.St. Louis because I could be shot. I drove there anyway. How sad I felt. Places I worked were vacant. I went looking for the place in Edgemont where Coach Camereon (HogJaws, and his son Bruce) lived. It had been burned down. Very, Very, Sad. I loved that area back in the fiftys. When they filmed a movie for the All America city in 1959, they came out to Jone's pool and had me perform several trick dives. I never got to see the movie and would like to know if any videos have ever been made from it. Lots of Good Memories. tkopcych@sbcglobal.net

Guest		10-May-2011 12:03
Hi This is to "Guest 01-May-2011 19:49 " I just read ur message posting dated 5-1-2011. I kinda have a feeling I know exactly where you use to live on 25th & Morris. That area at the time appeared very beautiful especially during the time you and ur mom lived there. From what I can remember..., I believe the house was of wood frame structure..., draped with shingles which sat across the street from a 2 story wood frame home as well as a tiny little lil' house that also sat diagonally across 25th & Morris. We had relatives that lived over there nevermind my grandmother knowing the black family that lived in the lil' house across 25th & Morris. All of those homes are long gone now but remembering them as I do..., WoW, what nice homes they were. I've been on a quest trying to find Aerial Maps that offer a birdseye view of those areas from the 1950's & 1960's that may show how those homes appeared cause I'm almost sure the scenery there was even more beautiful and am "QUITE ANXIOUS" to see those. Btw..., my memories are from mid 70's to mid 80's of the area which of course includes the old house that I believe was yours that sat trashed for several years before being finally torn down along with the other homes mentioned that were destroyed by fires. I also attended Monroe Grade School as a young child for 1yr of course. Its actually locate on Cleveland Avenue. I believe Webster School is the school that was formally located at 10th & Gaty Avenue before being demolished in 1984 to make room for the Popeye's Chicken and Wendy's Fast Food Restaurants. The Wendy's is no longer there but Popeye's Chicken still resides there. I also remember the Laundromat that was located at 25th & Lincoln Avenue. I know it closed in the 1970's, somewhere in there anyway. There were also two local stores near those corners also. The stores are long gone but what I've found interesting even up to the present is that, the laundromat somehow became a fortress of sort because I swear I have no idea of what's goin on there, but those folks are still living there in the building. You see them every now & then when they open the garage to remove graffiti from the green garage door as well as when relatives come to visit them on the other end of the building, lol. You don't see them otherwise, talk about yesteryear. Its very good to read things about that area near 25th & Morris because as I remember it..., some of the places in that area were fascinating to view especially when referring to 32nd and North Park Drive where there's like a bridge or something that lead to a well hidden cul~de~sac and then another one I believe located at 40th & North Park Drive. Ok, this concludes my stroll down the "wonderful" memory lane of past concerning those neighborhoods.

Dan Lilley		07-May-2011 03:00
My name is Dan Lilley. I grew up in E. St. Louis Il. I see a couple of names on here I remember. Would like to find an old friend of mine named James Green. I remember a lot of great things about this town, shame it has changed so much...... I would also like to give shout out to the names on here I recognize, I believe they will remember me.....

Guest		01-May-2011 19:49
I lived in ESL from age 4 until about 26/27. Then moved to Cahokia & then Fairview Hgts. Began school at Monroe on Gaty (I think), we lived at 1415 Mo avenue. Moved to 61st & St. Clair & then to 25th & Morris Ave at around 10 yrs old. Went to Jefferson & Landsdown. I have good memories of the old neighborhood, too bad it's not there anymore, not much of ESL is. There are many reasons for the demise of a once nice city. I heard that former Mayor Alvin Fields stoled all the money. My wife was raised on 32nd street. We met at a night spot, Art Mowes in Washington Park a few months after I got out of the Navy in "67. I think my brand new '67 GTO got her attention. As people moved to the "burbs", business' closed & with the closings, the tax revenue dried up. Property value declined. My Mom sold the house on Morris Ave for $800.00. It's been all down hill since. Maybe Trump can buy the city & make something of it. Fred C.

Mike		01-May-2011 03:51
Tammy, Prince Samuel was my grand father; His wife was Pearl Samuel. My father was Luke Samuel.

Guest		30-Apr-2011 02:52
Brinda Fowler I grew up all over East St Louis in the 50's and 60's. I went to slade, Morrison,Harding grade school. I have alot of fond memories and had alot of friends. I loved to go swimming at Jone's Park public pool my sister and I use to walk there all the time skating at Thunderbird roller rink and the sock hops they had. I know things have changed, but if you lived there during those years it was fun and very prosperous moved away around 1965 really miss all those times.

Tim Wilemon		29-Apr-2011 18:12
Hello I was born at the Christian Welfare Hospital March 15th 1965. I was adopted before birth by Charles and Betty Wilemon I know nothing about my blood father or mother except that her last name could have possibly been Hunter,and that she already had kids. If anyone has any information on this. I would be very grateful for the information. I can be reached at taw_31565@yahoo.com Thanks so much for taking the time to read this and God Bless

thetruth		26-Apr-2011 02:15
"In 1949 Sen. Estes Kefauver brought his traveling TV show to St. Louis - television was in its infancy and KSD was the only station in St. Louis, I believe. He spotlighted organized crime and its links to the political system, and embarrassed the East St. Louis police department and commissioners, Citing the betting parlors run within sight of City Hall, and wide open gambling and prostitution throughout the city." courtesy of ESLARP website - know your history!

guest		25-Apr-2011 17:18
I must say it is refreshing to see more positive comments on this site. Positivity breeds positive outcomes; negative comments breed negative outcomes. God bless you all. Our city needs you now more than ever. I love the resilience of the people of East St. Louis!

blue		22-Apr-2011 19:13
To Al King: Thank you for speaking the truth to these issues. To Jacquie: Never give up on hope and always be proud of where you came from! peace out, blue.

jacquie fainter barton		22-Apr-2011 00:14
i was born and raised in estl and washington park. grandparents own a confectionary called audobon conf. on the cornor of 56th and audobon. i had a wonderful life. never had to worry about playing outside because everyone watched you. i was so heartbroken when my parents moved us to kansas city in 1980. but my dad had to work. both he and his dad drove for hunter packing down in the stockyards. used to go to scobbles resturant down there as a kid. went to assumption high before it became a womens prison. went to landdowne jr and manners ele. boy the memories!!! take my kids back there all the time so they can see where i grew up. im not ashamed of where i came from!!!!

Guest		21-Apr-2011 09:39
Hello to the person that asked if anyone remember partying at St. Joseph, I do recall that and I ask do you recall the Mary Brown center, Lincoln Senior High or Coleman Plaza parties wth Lil Boogie & (a teen social group) fast buck rockin chuck disco swat team?

Al King		20-Apr-2011 13:15
Response to 1959 All American City. You asked why I referenced Kroger and Food stamps. Kroger was the first chain supermarket to move into E. St. Louis. They offered the less fortunate residents a better and fresher varity. As for food stamps; they did not permit credit purchases and the merchants could not legally munipulate their credit schemes (at that time)into their use. The merchants that I described earlier lost much business. Because of this and the ramp to the memorial bridge, they eventually left. This movement was not due to criminal activities. There is no doubt that I believe that you believe that you, your family, and your personal friends experienced unbelievable torture at the hands of the citizens of East St. Louis. I strongly suggest that because you have now reached maturity, maybe you should undertake a serious effort to find out what actually happened and why adults felt that you and not other students had to eat seperately under protection and get early dismissals from school. Perhaps you will finally realize that your blames were misplaced. I can say with all certainty that what you describe is unique to E. St. Louis. I mean, it sounds as if you were raised in an occupied state as opposed to anyplace in the US. Sure that was crime in E.ST. Louis during the period that you described. It is and was my experience that violent crimes in ESL were spontaneous mostly caused by: arguments, after hours St. Louis patrons, and people who went out of the way to go into volitile parts of E. St. Louis for prostitution or to by drugs or something else illegal. I do hope that you honestly seek the truth about why you, your family, and your friends were focused on negatively by the citizens of ESL.

guest		12-Apr-2011 03:50
Al King brings a different perspective on the "All american city". Soon there will be know where else to run to. And I am tallking about all races of people who has the economic ability to do so. Unless we figure out a way to inhabit the moon. Also, everyone's family was'nt able to move from East Saint Louis, that is until covenants in certain neighborhoods and cities were deemed unconstitutional. The solution to the problems of East Saint Louis will benefit every major city in the U.S. Does anyone have any intelligent ideas?

1959 All American City!!		09-Apr-2011 22:10
To Mr. Al King: From 1961 through 1974 this is what I personally experienced: 1) My friends, my siblings and I were chased home almost everyday from the schools we attended... James P. Sled, Parkside, Warren Harding, Lewis and Clark Jr. High, Rock, James Monroe, Holy Angels, Longfellow, Hawthorn, Landsdown, St. Patrick's Catholic School, St. Phillips Catholic School and last but not least East St Louis Senior High on State Street! I wonder why? I know why! My uncle was Joe Koenig, he taught physics at East Side, 1970. He protected me in which I had to eat ate my lunch in his classroom....and did not attend gym for the fear of getting mugged! I was allowed to leave school early everyday just to get a jump on the thugs and criminals who would chase me home!! The principal Mr. Ducksworth gave me a passing grade even though I did not attend gym for three years. He saved my life! Oh by the way...most of those schools are gone. 2) My next door neighbor and son were shot to death in 1972. 3) My sister was ganged raped at age 14. 1973 4) Both sets of my grandparents were robbed at gun point, at The Venture Store on Collinsville Rd. and the other at Fraad's IGA on State Street. 1969 & 1970. 5) An older gentleman, a security guard was murdered in broad daylight at the Lacledes Gas Company at 40th and State Street. 1967. 6) Mr. Price who owned Prices Restaurant & Prices Liquor Store on 35th & St. Clair was robbed & shot to death in broad daylight in 1972. 7) I was mugged three times, at Tri City Grocery Store, at W.T. Grants Department Store in The Shop City Plaza 4500 State St. and once at Bowl-A-Way on 39th and State St. 1967,1971 and 1974.. 8) My buddy Henry Dinan was shot in the back by two thugs at 13th & St. Clair and was paralized from the waist down...later he died from complications from his injuries. 1975 9) My dad's mom was walking home from Robert Hall Clothing Store (now a thug Disco) on State St.,was knocked down and robbed by a criminal! 1968 And crime is & was not the issue!? No one said the businesses on Collinsville Ave were robbed. (That I know of) But what person in their right mind would go shopping in ESL without a police escort? By the way there are only 3 to 4 police cars patrolling the city now if that. Oh and please tell me what furniture, jewelry, bank, restaurant, bakery, brewery, hospital (I hear St. Mary's will be closing soon) car dealer, insurance agent, drug store, meat packing house, lumber company, stockyard, taxi, hardware store, Doctor, dentist, and clothing stores replaced the businesses that robbed these poor people?? NONE! Kroger? Kroger sells food! Food stamps??? What?? What in the world are you talking about?? Please you are insulting the readers! That is one of the craziest things I have ever heard about this city! There are still a lot of good people left in East St Louis...problem is they can't get out fast enough! Belleville is next. The crime in Belleville is going through the roof there. It be will be the next ESL. Jayson you better make a trip to Belleville Illinois and take some pictures before it's gone! In Summary it was unsafe in the 60's, 70's, 80's, 90's and now! One question to you and everybody else. Why did all these people, Black & White leave ESL? Answer? Crime! Period! Facts are Stubborn thing!! 1959 All American City!!

Al King		08-Apr-2011 16:34
It's amazing how different people remember ESL. I remember that the local (mostly Jewish) owned stores would give credit to the poor south end Blacks. What they would do was give them credit on Friday and Saturday to buy their dyed and often rottened meats and smelly and withered vegetables. The very next weekend you had to pay up. Now that left you with no money to go elsewhere so you got other weeks worth their foods on credit and paid the next week... This went on for at least a generation. This is not speculation. At age twelve, I worked at Margulis next to Coffman�s (pardon any misspellings). Sam Margulis would see you coming at the top of the isle before getting to the cash register. He would add about $2 to your ticket then pull that portion up and tear it off. When you got your ticket, you never saw the $2 added. I met Coffman the lawyer (Rose Coffman�s son). He honestly believes that his parents helped the Blacks in E. St. Louis with their credit practices. I will let the reader be the judge of that. How many of you remember Roy Wiese Clothing? You know the store that got very expensive vouchers from the state to help cloth and furnish the poor. Remember that you would get a mattress and you could get on the bus with it and still only sit in one seat. You and the mattress. The seams would fall out of the clothing after a couple of washings... These businesses did not leave due to crime. Nobody robbed the white and Jewish businesses in ESL. They left because the poor Blacks got better shopping opportunities with food stamps and better jobs. Kroger and businesses that offered better at lower or the same price opened. As far as White flight is concerned. If you had lived in and around ESL during the late 60�s and early 70�s, you should have noticed a lot of house fires (especially northeast ESL and Washington Park. You know who lived there and you know that there was no rioting going on there. There were, however, a lot of insurance claims paid and lots of those residents left leaving burned out shells that were once homes. It was then and only then that Blacks started moving in numbers to that part of town. There were few whites left. You be the judge. Parkside was a different matter. I was the first of five of my parent�s children to be born in ESL. I attended Washington, John Robinson, Hughes-Quinn, Lincoln and State Community College there. I lived there from 1949 to 1975 and then some. I was blessed to teach in the high school from which I graduated for twelve years. I have a great love for ESL but I will say with all honesty that it was and is the worse place in the world to raise Black children. Those who keep shouting that crime made the Whites and Jews leave need to stop. Blacks in ESL, and this really hurts me to say this, would never harm them. I never understood this. They will jump in front of a bullet to save them or their money. Did you know that even today: insurance collectors still go into ESL daily to collect premiums, and white teachers, federal and state employees, utility workers are there daily with no incidents?

rose faulkner		04-Apr-2011 04:07
I was Rose Faulkner & grew up on 18th & Belmont ave by State St. My parents worked in St. Louis. I went to Longfellow school, then Rock Jr high & E. Side High, class of 66. I got my first kiss in sunken gardens by Longfellow school & my dad drove by just at that moment & shouted at me .. oh my. We walked everywhere & at nite too. My grandmother owned 3 houses & never wanted to sell them but the crime came & for her own safety, she fled. My parents lost their house too. Just had to walk away. I live in Canada now & here, if you bought a house for $8,000 in 1958, you can sell it for a million. Would love to hear from some of my old friends ... Judy Griffin, Linda Pierce, Donna Reynolds, Dorothy Dillon, Donna GRoss, or anybody else that remembers me. Hope the best for everybody on this site :)

1959 All American City!		29-Mar-2011 10:34
To: Guest 17-Mar-2011 23:17 & Guest 17-Mar-23:11 White Flight?? Nonsense! Excuse me, the businesses that left the urban areas in this country from the last 50 years are from all ethic backgrounds. Case in point. When the Rodney King Riots happened in California I will never forget a Black man screaming why his business was looted? Most if not all the riots in the 60's were in black owned business areas of the cities. The Black people lost their businesses and were bankrupt! In St Louis, just across the river 9 out of 10 crimes are black on black! (This was reported in the St. Louis Post Dispatch on 03/19/11). A lot of these inner cities have never recovered from the 60's riots. Just look at some areas in New Jersey. Regarding East St Louis....Yes it was THE ALL AMERICAN CITY 1959! Yes it had its problems. And yes factories, businesses moved out. Most of the businesses down Collinsville Ave were owned by the Jewish people. (Bill) Luries Furniture, (Harvey) Sidels, (Jerry Bator), Union Clothing, Zerwick Jewlery, Rex Carr Attorney and many, many more. Were the Jewish people at fault for leaving? NO! No, it was because of Crime! And regarding "stealthily moved out of the city," What!!?? My family was driven out of this city! We lost everything! In summary I just have two questions to all the bloggers on this site?? Why did you or your family move from East St Louis ?? And last would you move your family back? Facts are stubborn things.

Jayson		25-Mar-2011 03:44
If you use ALL CAPS, make racial comments or ignorant statements like, "You people", your comments won't be posted and will be deleted. You can be critical without the hate or labeling an entire minority group. Jayson

proudestl		17-Mar-2011 23:34
if people would have addressed the problems of ESTL during the "good times" rather than cut and run, the city would be in better shape. Shame

guest		17-Mar-2011 23:17
the issues with the city of east saint louis is indicative of most every major urban city in the US. how could ESTL be called great american city in 1959 when african americans were marginalized and suppressed? because this was the norm in US. White flight, exodus of businesses accelarated the problems we now see in the city. if the issues were addressed rather than rn away from in 50s and 60s, the whole metro-east area would be better for it

Guest		17-Mar-2011 23:11
All of these people talking about how "great ESTL was when they lived here are truly dillusional. You need to read books written about the history of ESTL. This was one of the most racist cities in the country. Rather than address the problems associated with inevitable change, european americans stealthily moved out of the city, knowing that the businesses had already done so. If you want to know why ESTL has the problems it does today, look in the mirror!!

Kim		12-Mar-2011 15:54
My whole family lived in East St. Louis. My moms folks worked at Swifts and lived on 62nd. My dads mom and family lived in Alorton. I grew up in Loisel Village. This was when you oould play and not have to worry about gun fire. No one locked the doors or put bars on their windows. Loisel Village was a great place to shop. Its a shame todays kids living there will never know about seeing a movie at the Majestic. It was a gorgeous theater. It makes me sad to see it as a broken city with no tax base. This is what happens when we become a welfare society believing Uncle Sam owes us a living.

Donald C. Brooks		07-Mar-2011 16:17
This is a great site. I was reared in E.St.Louis, St.Augustine and St.Joseph 's grade schools, Rock, East Side class of 61' I enjoyed growing up there. Me and my friends would play ball at Johnson's, Attucks and, Webster as a teenager. Played tackle football in Jones Park against former Assumption High grads. We then traveled the city looking for competition. Me and Donnie Billups we grew up together and hung together as adults at Pudgey's on 15th and St.Louis Ave.and other joints. I moved to Washington DC in 77, been here ever since. Sorry to see the shape of the City now. Still have family there.

Chaundelyne		04-Mar-2011 16:32
Here I am yet again posting another memo here since the other two weren't successful. The first 6yrs of my life I spent growing up at 13th & Cleveland. Anyway, I'd like to know... "Where's Mrs Hill" of Hills Market at 13th & Cleveland. I have no idea how long the store existed but it was surely a neighborhood favorite if nothing else. When Mr. Hill passed away in 1982, Mrs Hill kept the store open til' around late 83' or early 84'. Its like "she disappeared" into thin air and no one seems to know what happened with her nor does anyone really know where she went once the store closed. If there's anyone out there that remembers Mrs Hill as well as her store, I am definitely curious to know where she went or even if she's still alive?

Guest		25-Feb-2011 13:33
I was raised in ESL until 1961 when my father was shot and killed while gambling. I was 12 years old. We lived at 2418 Missouri Ave. I remember the days when we play hopscoth on the sidewalk, played double dutch. Had a good time. The picnics at the park on Gaty Avenue. Crisp Confectionary.Billup's drug store. You could walk by the funeral home and see bodies in the window. We slept with our windows open, would leave the doors unlocked because someone didn't have a key. I went to school at Crispus Attucks and later Rock Jr. high and sometimes had to walk home because I missed the bus. My neighbors were the Saversons, Davis, Dunns, Smith, Jones, Morrison. I have fond memories of ESL. My brother Joseph, Sister Cora and of course me. One day I am going to come back and go the the Library to find out info during my life there. We had the Crusader and E. St. Louis Journal newspaper. Missouri was a very busy street during the rush hour with livestock truck smelling up the street. Fond memories of my home town. Also there was the flagpole dance which we did when I was in elementary. I remember the Brick which had a big concrete basin to throw your water in. Those were the happy days before the crime moved in.

Guest		23-Feb-2011 03:01
I was born in ESL. My grandparents house on Morris is gone, I remember the brick road and the hum the car made. Mama and I lived there for a bit in 1964. Went to Landsowne then and my best friend was Jeannie Hunt. My uncle was the fire chief in the late 50's or so. Another aunt/uncle lived on "hill top" It was still an okay town and it is really sad to see some of those beautiful old homes falling down. My first Santa visit was downtown - maybe Stix & Bauer? Oh well, the world changes,but still it is tragic.

Guest		18-Feb-2011 02:03
This msg is for Lawrence dated 12/25/10. My name is Mona and my brother name Dave White. My mother's house on 31st, near St.Clair. I graduated from East Side 1970. After that married and left in 1972. we moved to Michigan and then to California. I been out here in CA since 1973. ESL will always be my home. I tell anybody and everyone that I wouldn't had wanted to live any where as a child growing up. I had the best fun there and loving fun memories. I reside in Sacramento also. You mentioned Roosevelt Nixon his sister Thelma Nixon and I were BEST FRIENDS. Hopefully, this is the same Nixon that lived on Summit. I do believe this is the same person. He has an older sister and he was the youngest. If so, email me at pru012009@aol.com. I would like to get in contact with ESL from back-in-the day as they say. Love that city don't care what they say. Haven't been back in awhile but its still home. Most of my family still there.

Guest		17-Feb-2011 08:08
Yeah, Ron, I remember that sky blue house on North Park Drive and 48th Street. I used to live there. Too bad Leo couldn't learn to build a decent basement wall. Seems like we spent every summer vacation from East Side and Lansdowne pick-axing through that stinking black gumbo and rebuilding yet another block wall before I went to war. Odd that we've both stumbled across this website within days of each other, considering all the years that muddy wide river's swept away from us. Will post again on this site later. Let me know if you want to communicate, otherwise I'll leave you to your life, which I hope has been, is, and will continue to be better than how mine turned out.

Guest		16-Feb-2011 08:04
In 1969 I met some guys from East St. Louis, Acer Crump, Lil Bud, Earl Malone and James Pearson. They said Flint MI reminded them of their hometown. For a long time I thought E.ST.L. was part of MO. Because one or all would say they were from the "show me state." My friend Louise say that the similarity was the after hrs joints and small food businesses that existed. One thing for sure these guys loved their hometown for whatever reasons. I see similar situations in both places as in many places in the USA where small cities depended on 1 major business. One of our major business was GM. I left Flint for 15 years and was surprise to see the changes that were taking place. My CA. husband did not like "small" Flint, Which was home for me. Well time told our story and GM hold only a few plants now in MI. My man left but I stayed. When I look at pictures of E.St.Louis they remind me of Flint but I still have hope and love for my hometown I have good memories of places that no longer exist in my town but I'm here to make a difference. The abandon houses and business buildings, the increase in crimes and murders....Young people terrorize elder people, drive by shooting; because these are smaller cities these crimes are amplified. I didn't see these things until approx. 1975 just before I left MI. I've always wanted to visit E.St.L. but, people who have relatives in St. Louis, Mo. "say you dont want to be there after dark." Acer Crump died here in MI. And I lost touch with the other guys. But what other place would sell a tribe sandwich? I enjoyed hearing stories about E.St.L. from James and Lil Bud. Today I hope for changes in Flint and it may become a college town and I hope and pray that E.ST.L. finds it niche and revitalize itself with the help of its community, God-willing. One day I may visit your fair city...Scooby Doo

Ron		14-Feb-2011 18:15
I lived on North Park Drive, only blue house in the park. My memoe

Tony Houston.		11-Feb-2011 16:54
This is for Bonnie Fulford - Stewart, ( Taylor ). I grew up in Rosemont, the Roosevelt Homes as well. My name is Tony Houston, I am Jerry Kimbrell's cousin. I have brother named Steve, you might remember him. Anyway, you name sound awfully familiar. I hate to tell you this, but Jerry Kimbrell passed away late last year. Jerry was one of the most caring people I ever knew, and he is terribly missed. It's nice hearing from one who grew up ther in the projects too. Take care.

jim		10-Feb-2011 10:45
i lived at 620 rear trenley that was the old south in that is when it was a wonderful place to live WHAT HAPEN/????????????????-1940s

Guest		10-Feb-2011 03:59
I wouldn't trade my childhood memories of growing up on russell ave for nothing.I went to Harding Mr Moore was the principle all my brothers and sister went there I could go on and on we used to play baseball all the time by the fire station or we went to play at the Frank Holton State Park the boat house with the float docks was really cool. I was born in 1956 and lived there till 1970. i remember going to Thunderbird Skating Rink with my friends my parents would take us to A & W for a rootbeer float yeah it was good times its sad how things turned out.

Milton		07-Feb-2011 03:28
I grew up in ESL in the 50's and 60's. I went to Washington for kindergarden, Franklin(1-6), it burned down a year later, Hughes-Quinn(7-9), and Lincoln(10th). My family moved out of state in July 1970 just before the really long teacher strike, and I haved lived in this City for 40 years. But ESL will always be home. In 1965, I remember standing on the corner of Collinsville & Missouri and saw President Johnson, a Illinois State Trooper put me on his shoulders. I loved going to Leading Foods Store on 8th & Trendley, Mrs Love Confectionery on 8th & Bond. Watching the Gateway Arch come out the ground to the last piece in 1966 from Franklin and playing on the Interstate with my brother and counsins as it was being build. The Interstate took out Franklin Park where we played and had fights. When I played sports at H-Q and Lincoln I remembered we always were cheated and if we won, we had to win big so there was no doubt.

Bonnie Fulford-Stewart		02-Feb-2011 08:04
Bonnie (formerly) Taylor Wow! What an amazing can of worms I've just opened! I went online to find someone who might have a recipe for Price's Nightmare, and found all of this! What a great idea. A forum for venting about what a mess our hometown has become, a memory lane, a missing persons "milk carton", and more! Looking at your photos, after being away for thirty + years, I feel almost sick. This must be how the people who grew up in Chernobyl feel....but I'm glad that you did it. My territory was The Roosevelt Homes, Hawthorne Elementary, Landsdowne Jr. High, Jones(es)Park...Does anyone else remember the motorboat rides? Or the wonderful fountain that changed shapes, and Hernando's Hideaway behind the fountain.. There was so much. We were so lucky to have been there, then. Now, I'm living my "cowboy" dreams, inspired by childhood TV. Living in the project, I wished that I could be on the Ponderosa, in the Yukon, or wherever they filmed Lawman, Maverick, The Rebel, Cheyenne..etc. Now, I look up at fourteen thousand foot mountains from my Colorado Rockies home, everyday. I saw Jerry Kimbrell's name in the posts...I sat across the aisle from him in class, and watched him making beautiful elaborate designs out of people's names. I hope that he and all of the others, who used to be so significant in my life, are also where they want to be.

Guest		01-Feb-2011 21:21
GUEST I moved to Centreville in 1963 from Chicago. Loved the close knit community. Moved to Connecticut in 1992. Have fond memories of the splash parties given at Lincoln Park. Also remember going downtown on Saturdays to Woolworth for a slice of pizza and then to the "record" shop for the latest 45!

Rick B		30-Jan-2011 10:22
We lived close by a lady who worked at the Stop Light Restaurant. Once in a while She would bring home The chicken left over from that night in a big brown Grocery Bag and give it the the kids on the street. That was the best chicken in the world. Wish I had the recipe. Do You remember the tamale man going up and down State Street ? Kids always spread rumors that He used Cat Meat. If Anybody has that chicken recipe I'd sure love to have it!!

GPJ		26-Jan-2011 21:13
I lived and worked in ESL until college. Lived on 19 st, walked to and from work to 54 st and downtown. Yes it was scarry but learned early how to handle the situation. A lot of good memories and don't regret growing up there. Only wish we could enjoy the city in this late time of life. Remember ice scating at Jones park's lagoon, fishing at Grand Maris, walking out on the new bridge when it was being built, hopping trains for fun, looking forward to the annual carnival, swimming after hours at the KofC and not getting caught, sleeping and playing at the corner light, fun at the local drive in movies, etc. etc. etc. Wouldn't change it for the world.

Carol Winning Tiffin		23-Jan-2011 00:35
I was born in Christian Welfare Hospital in 1937. My grandfather Dr. Charles C. Winning delivered me and my brother. We grew up riding our our bikes to Jones Park to swim and riding the bus to the Majetic Theater. We would also go on day trips aboard the Admiral. We would pack lunches and ride to the bluffs for the day. We attended Hawthorne Elementary and Lansdowne JR High. I remember it as a great place to grow-up! And it saddens me deeply to learn of its ststus today.

Guest		21-Jan-2011 23:45
My name is Anne Walker and I am running for City Council in East St. Louis. the primary is 2/22/11. I posted this on face book today: > A friend responded saying that East St. Louis got All America City status in 1959, which is true. A trip thru google landed me once again on this site and to someone's comment about the city deserving the status of, " City of Crime". While I am not looking @ East St. Louis through rose colored glasses, I do want to accent the city's positive sides and build toward reconstructing it once again to be worthy of All America City title. Plz send recommendations to awlk4council@aol.com.

Guest		21-Jan-2011 15:37
Rick, I remember walking all over East Saint Louis in the 60's and 70's. Going to Jones Park. Walking across the Eads bridge to Saint Louis, Missouri. Those were the good ole days, we had fun, never worried about being abdudcted!

Bennie F. Bonner Jr.		20-Jan-2011 15:30
Heartbreaking how our city continues to spiral out of control. No tax base, no public services, no bright future! Remember the reasonably good times because it will take 50 years before ESL will be a great city again!

Tony. Houston.		18-Jan-2011 16:58
Pam. Kissinger, Do you remember how we use to dress up for Halloween and parade around Slade School ? How about the picnics they use to have every year at the end of the school year ? Remember the little stores they had close to the school ? One we called the boy's store and the other one we called the girl's store ? Do you remember me, My name is Tony. Houston. ?

judiann		17-Jan-2011 16:04
Do any of you remember the shanty/tent cities next to the Mississippi River on the East Side growing up? Would be the late '40s and '50s I do, but never have seen any photos of this part of history. Just the memories of looking out the car window as a little kid and wondering about all the people who lived there.

Pam Kisslinger (Farnum)		16-Jan-2011 23:39
Lived at 823 North 23rd St. Attended Slade. Born 1954. Segregation then was the fence dividing the girls playground from the boys! Remember the library bus, Liberty Stamps, the Halloween parade and Santa? No pics though. Grandma attendede Rosemont Baptist Church, I still have a hymnal and am still Baptist. I oft wondered why E. St. Louis did not prosper. We moved in 1963 to Caseyville.

Kevin Bernard Taylor		12-Jan-2011 22:03
I must admit, some of these postings are very interesting....but respected. Sherry Williams, I've been asking about you for years! Attached is an e-mail addy where I can be reached. I would love to do some catching up with you! I haven't forgot about that dance. :) As far as East Saint.....everyone has their own opinion, and many of them may be factual, but there's still hope in the boogie!

Rick B		06-Jan-2011 10:27
Tara, I didn't know Locke Stove burned. I guess I'm getting old . I think more back than I do forward. I made 2.29 an Hour and cleared 77 Dollars a week.Gas was around 30 cents a gallon. Would You believe that on that 77 Dollars My wife and I could pay our rent and bills and would have 7 Dollars left to get through the week. On that 7 Dollars I could keep gas in the car and have coffee money for work plus We could go to a movie that Saturday?

Tara J.		05-Jan-2011 04:19
Stumbled upon this...To this day, I tell people I'm from East Saint Louis without hesitation. I'm much to young to have experienced East Boogie in it's HayDay. I went to Dunbar, Clark and Lincoln c/o '89. I attended Truelight and worked for Officer Funeral Home. I shopped at Leading Food store, Shop City, and BBQ from Sandy's, burgers from Shebas. I remember the high energy parades down State Street. I grew up in the 800 block of North 33rd street between St. Clair and Summit. I remember the Locke Stove fire. Driving to Fairview Heights to do any real shopping. I vowed that if I ever rich that I would restore ESL. So many memories...

Guest		05-Jan-2011 04:02
To: AllAMCTY 1959 I'm sorry to hear about Henry. He wasn't the type to provoke anyone. The Dinan's were all hard working people. My older brother went to Sacred Heart and Assumption with Tim Dinan. Just another senseless death in East St.Louis. I moved West in '74 and missed alot of the local news. I live in Minneapolis, MN now. But keep up with St. Louis news on the internet. I remember the Pit tavern. It was owned by an E. St. Louis police officer. Dennis Duchinowski used to tend bar there. I knew Harold Price. He coached our grade school football team. Another senseless murder. He also was hard working and put people to work. East St.Louis will always be my hometown. Can't change that, nor would I want to. I remember more gentler times when we would walk to Jones's park and play pick-up softball and football. Hang out at the pool till it closed and walk home without any fear of being robbed or assaulted. We were more afraid of hobo's near the railroad tracks than other E. St. Louis residents. E. St. Louis needs help. It looks like its going to need an ACT of Congress to right the ship. Tim Keniley

1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY!!!!		03-Jan-2011 02:02
TO: Timothy Keniley Hi Tim, yes I knew all three Dinan boys. They played on our softball team in the 70's. I also knew Henry's wife Nora (Horner) and his dad. Henry would pick me up in his 1968 Chevrolet SS back then and give me a ride to the games. I believe he worked on the railroad. One night coming home from work he stopped at the Pit Tavern on 13th and St Clair,ESL. When he left he went to the rear of the tavern where there were several racist thugs, who then robbed him and shot him in the back. He asked them to spare his life and they just laughed at him and walked away. Several years later Henry died probably a result from his injury. Henry and his family were some of the best people I have ever met.

Rick B		02-Jan-2011 09:59
1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY!! We moved to ESL in about 1954. I had a lot of experiences also.I graduated High School in 1966 on a Friday and found a job the next Monday. I worked at Locke Stove for 3 years and then went to work at Hunter Packing for 8 Years. I'd lock the doors about the time I got close to Rush City, and if there were a bunch standing on a corner I'd blow the stop sign. 2 of my friends at Hunter were murdered. Both were shot, and one of them was shot at work. He worked the recieving pens for hogs, and some guys tried to rob him because they thought he kept the money for paying the farmers when they brought in a load of hogs. They shot him because He did not have any money. One time a bunch spread out across the road to stop us and needless to say We put the petal to the floor and they scattered like a bunch of buzzards.I had lots of friends there, both white and black, and they all just wanted to work and have good lives,but all there is left now are poor "old" people who have no way out and bad people who won't let "anybody" get ahead.

Timothy Keniley		02-Jan-2011 02:51
I went to grade school with Henry Dinan. Knew all the Dinan brothers. The family owned Dinan's grill on about 10th and St. Clair Ave. Very sad to hear about Henry. We were in the same grade at Sacred Heart on 8th and Baugh. I would be interested to hear from anyone from that neighborhood. My family lived on 800 Summit Ave. Tim Keniley

1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY!!		31-Dec-2010 05:05
To Rick B Rick sounds like you and I are from the same generation. I was 4TH generation. Both sides of my family moved to ESL in the early 1900's. There was a total of around 25 homes my family owned during this time period. Every single one of them has been burned down by criminals with the exception of the house on 39th & State Street. (But sadly the last time I went by there, it is shrouded with a blue tarp, it won't be around much longer) I have a lot of fond memories of my lost home town. As you know it was a great town before the 60's. If you needed a job you could find any type of work! Then around 1964 something happened.....crime began to rise. BIG TIME! Some people blame the companies. They said the COMPANIES moved out and left the city high and dry! BS! Most companies just plain went out of business. THE OTHER COMPANIES THAT DID MOVE OUT WAS BECAUSE OF THE VIOLENCE AND CRIME! New businesses would not move in because of the escalating crime rate! WHO IN THEIR RIGHT MIND WOULD OPEN A BUSINESS DOWN IN THIS WAR ZONE?! At one time ESL had the 2nd LARGEST stockyards in the WORLD, next to Chicago!. It also had THE LARGEST railroad YARDS in the WORLD! ESL had 11 brewery's, 10 meat packing plants, 14 new car dealerships, and many, many more businesses and factories! FROM 1964 till 1974 THIS IS SOME OF WHAT I PERSONALLY EXPERIENCED!! 1) WE WERE CHASED HOME FROM SCHOOL EVERYDAY BECAUSE OF THE COLOR OF OUR SKIN. 2) MY NEXT DOOR NEIGHBOR AND HIS SON WERE MURDERED! 3) MY SISTER RAPED! 4) BOTH SETS OF MY GRANDPARENTS ROBBED AT GUN POINT! 5) GENTLEMAN DOWN THE STREET, A SECURITY GUARD AT LACLED GAS CO. ON 40TH & STATE MURDERED! 6) MR PRICE WHO OWNED PRICE'S DRIVE INN RESTURANT ON 35TH & ST CLAIR, SHOT TO DEATH IN COLD BLOOD! 7) I WAS MUGGED AND ALMOST MURDERED AT GUN POINT AT THE W.T GRANT'S STORE IN BROAD DAY LIGHT! 8) MY BUDDY HENRY DINAN WAS SHOT IN THE BACK AND PARALIZED AS HE WAS WALKING TO HIS CAR BY THUGS! IN SUMMARY WHEN WE LEFT EAST ST LOUIS IN 1974 MY RELATIVES LOST EVERYTHING, THE HOUSE WASNT WORTH A DOLLAR! IT BROKE MY GRANDPARENT'S HEARTS...THEY THOUGHT ESL WOULD COME BACK SOMEDAY. IT WONT. NOT UNTIL THE BANKRUPT STATE OF ILLINOIS LEVELS THE TOWN AND SELLS IT TO FARMERS TO ONCE AGAIN GROW CROPS. THEN MAYBE IN A HUNDRED YEARS IT COULD START OVER. FACTS ARE STUBBORN THINGS.

Rick B		30-Dec-2010 18:37
1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY!!! Jones Park.That is sad. My Dad and Uncle used to take us kids there once in a while on a Saturday and BBQ and play ball in 1958 and 1959. My Brother and I looked forward to going to the pool at 1:00 every Sunday. Later on I would go there with a girlfriend and We'd walk around the park all day, just holding hands and enjoying the place. I guess people who lived there just gave up . A few volunteers can keep anything up if they put out the effort.

1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY!		29-Dec-2010 23:24
To Rick B : Rick I just took some pictures at the Park this summer....its HORRIBLE! They turned the swimming pool into a playground! The fountain is there but not running, all the ball diamonds are trashed....the restrooms are not working.....the roads through out the Park have not been repaired in 35 years...the beautful, natural turf tennis courts are gone! Bums and winos are roaming the park trying to steal something or rob somebody! Other than that its fine...just like the rest of the sess pool of ESL!

Rick B		29-Dec-2010 22:41
What does Jones Park look like now? Any Pics ? We had great times there.

Dan Simpson		29-Dec-2010 16:10
To those who went to Jefferson School in the 50's contact me dantrico@centurytel.net

Chauna		29-Dec-2010 11:11
Outrageous..., totally Outrageous!

brenda		29-Dec-2010 02:44
I lived on 8th & state st right down from Blacky Mcknights cab stand & the funeral home. While living in e. st. louis I enjoyed it because that was all I knew. Went to webster elementary; rock highschool & graduated from Lincoln. As I type this soooo many fond memories. I visit often & would like to hear from those webster elites (smile). Do you remember Mr. Hudson; Ms Hall; Ms. Finley; Mr. Marcelle? Hey do you all remember Tuche' The DJ. (lol)

Lawrence		25-Dec-2010 06:30
Wow, I just discovered this site tonight on Christmas eve..To all of my fellow East Sider's, Merry Christmas & Happy New Year. My name is Lawrence Matthews Jr, born in St Louis because in 1953, they didn't allow Black children to be born at St Mary's Hospital. A flood of memories washes over me as I type this tonight, I grew up in Pollock town too(Hey Pat Crisp), went to New Hope Baptist as a young boy. I am a graduate of Attucks, Clark Jr High, East Side & the Univ. of Iowa. Played a little football along the way with some awesome dudes. Eddie Smith, Greg Lewis, Larry Rodgers, Cortez Kennedy, Greg Epperson, Roderick Fisher(Bull),Marion Stallings, Tim Moody, Tyrone Gillispie, & Charles Martin, to name a few! I echo the sentiments of many of you every time I return to my mid-western roots, in the sadness of it's people & the decay of a once great city. I was home as recent as this past November to see my parents, daughter, sisters and other relatives that remain in East St Louis. My wife Paula of 28 years and I currently reside in the capital city of California. If there are any of you out there near here, holla, would love to hear from you. Roosevelt Nixon, turned me on to this site, a fellow homie that I ran into while working for the same gas & electric company here in Northern Cali. I truly could go on all night, but we have a house full of grandbabies bouncing off the walls waiting on "Santa" to get here and I getting ready to go put their butts to sleep! My soul remains in East Saint as my physical body resides in Sacramento and I will never be ashamed of where I'm from. East Saint helped to shape me into the man I am today, from my parents, grandparents, coaches and pastors that either whipped my butt when I acted up or a helping hand when I needed it. There have been many great people that have either been born there, lived there or passed through East St Louis, and our lives will never be the same. My vision has not been tainted by rose colored glasses, because I have seen not only the good of E. St Louis, but the bad & ugly side as well. I don't have a solution as to how this once proud Lady can be resurrected, but I do know it's genesis starts with prayer. God Bless U all!

1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY!!		23-Dec-2010 23:55
Venise WRITE ON THE MONEY!! GOD BLESS YOU!

Venise		23-Dec-2010 19:21
CONTINUED>>> TO JAY AND BRENDARICH: Can I get a book to read, please? Well she called my father and smiled at me when she hung up. The phone was on her desk...hum. Well, when my dad arrived he had a smirk on his face and a bag in his hand. My dad left work, went home, gathered all the damn paperchains we had made that week and brought them to her. He respectfully let the teacher explain the reason for calling him off his job; and when she finished telling him the dumbest story ever told, my dad just looked at me. I looked back at him and the funniest thing happened. I laughed! I laughed so hard, whoa! Then he dumped the whole bag of paper chains on her desk. What I am getting at Jay and Brendarich is that this so-called teacher didn't care to teach us, but to make sure we stayed quiet until it was time to go home. My father quickly figured out what was going on and decided that this was not the place for me or any child for that matter. But he was going to make quite sure that I wasn't going to be caught up in this awful and unfortunate situation. I did not go back and I didn't get my butt whooped as she had hoped. This teacher wanted to scare me into thinking that if I didn't do what she said, no matter how stupid and ridiculous that my father was going to beat me black and blue because he apparently was just as stupid and ignorant would only be thinking about the money he was losing and not what was REALLY going on with his child. Not my parents. Sorry, they weren't the ignorant type who was so ghetto they couldn't tell the difference. When he got done with her in an ever so kindly fashion, she couldn't even hold her head up. So, what I am saying is not second hand. Do I believe that ESL is the only city that has crime? NO. But this site is about ESL right? So we are addressing the issues here, right? Or are we talking about some other city? Brendarich, I know of the sweet. The green fields, frogs croaking and hopping about after the sun goes down, the crickets deafing high-noon call in the summer, large night crawlers after a heavy rains and the fish that run in the lakes, streams and rivers. The land is rich but the people are not. I am describing it just as it is, so what are you going to do about it? What have you done about it. This place as far as the people has become worse. Check the projects and the schools and you will find all the issues at it's highest concentrations there. I still try to help my extended family, but I have to get over the language barrier first. Many of the younger ones don't know the meaning of simple words of the English language and seem to get confused and puffed up and I wonder what in the world is this? I am not speaking Spanish or some foriegn language. They put on a good pretense, like they understand and they look at me like "who do you think you are?" because I don't mispronounce and slur my words. Should I go on? Or isn't it exhausting?

Venise		23-Dec-2010 19:17
TO: JAY AND BRENDARICH Oh come on Jay, really!? Clean up my act? First of all, I am not a felon and haven't committed any crimes. "ALL" of my parents' children have an education and the last is heading to college next year. Secondly, I have read and seen so much crime within the two months I have been back to ESL than I have experienced the whole time I lived in Los Angeles! I understand that you and brendarich are trying to pump up the place, but you need to take off the rose colored glasses and stop acting as if everything is all butterflies and snowflakes, because it is not! In order to help people you need to know exactly the problems you are dealing with so you can learn how to address them. What I expressed is exactly what I experienced. These experiences are facts and first hand. Not some conclusion I speculated after reading the stories posted on this site. I was born here several years ago and have only seen this place become worse. When I left here during my primary school years and entered the Los Angeles Unified School District system, it was then when I learned just what kind of education I had received so far from ESL. All my teachers here were Black. They allowed us to say whatever, and did not care to correct our pronounciation of words of the English language. But didn't we deserve to be taught correctly? My mother would ask me to read her the stories I was reading in class and when I finished my parents looked at me with great saddeness and confusion. What in the Hell was those teachers encouraging? and why wasn't it being corrected? So, what did I get for Christmas that year? Books, Flash Cards, a desk, a chalk board, a film projector, writing paper and a dictionary. Oh I forgot one doll and a bike. My parents jumped in and put a halt to that ridiculousness. From then on my parents wanted to know everything I was learning. But the moment of truth came when my Black teacher decided that she was going to call my father while he was at work and she kept emphasizing the fact he was at his job and how I was going to get my butt whooped when she told him how I was acting! LOL! ROTFL (Rolling On The Floor Laughing) This lady was going to call my father on his job and tell him why I refused to make paperchains everyday, all day in class. Paperchains, oh come on Jay and Brendarich! Wake up! I was so disgusted with this Black woman who forced her large wide frame in a chair that cried out for help as it's legs creaked in anquish as she sat in it "all day". Yes all day! I was surprised. This teacher couldn't handle my issue like a teacher, but like a child that could not get her way. We had been doing this paperchain thing all week and it was getting awfully boring!

Buzzard		23-Dec-2010 18:46
Dose anyone think gold is in east st louis.

brendarich		23-Dec-2010 04:12
Venise! Why so critical and bitter? Where's the sweet? East Saint Louis could use some help. The City needs love and encouragement! As long as there's life there is hope. I pray God will raise you up to "be" a part of the restoration this City so desperately needs.

1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY!!!		23-Dec-2010 03:58
REGARDING : 22-Dec-2010 21:43 JAY Leave Venise ALONE! SHE IS RIGHT ON THE MONEY!! Almost 40 murders in a town of less than 20,000 is one of the worst in the WORLD!!! Get a life Jay and go back to CLUB CASINO!!!!!

Guest		22-Dec-2010 21:43
OK Venise, " be killed doing so" clean up your own act before criticizing others. East Saint Louis is not the only city where people are getting killed. Look around the United States. I see you have a one track mind. Jay

heaven forbid		16-Dec-2010 06:01
I sure hope East St louis never goes away because if it did, some of the people there might move by me

Tony. Houston.		10-Dec-2010 13:48
I loved growing up in East. St. Louis. I love what it once was, not what it is today.

Guest		09-Dec-2010 16:18
To Dan Simpson. (Posting 5/10) I went to Jefferson with you, your list of names brought back a lot of memories. I hope you still check this site occassionally. Do you remember Carol Thierry, and Shelia?

Venise		08-Dec-2010 23:30
All of you know how bad it is here. I just read in the newspaper about an elderly lady being strangled in her home, another tied up and robbed, a couple being sexually assulted by four teens. I met an elderly man that was defrauded of thousands of dollars over a home that the seller never owned. I met a lady who said she was a school teacher and couldnt believe all the words she mispronounced! Yes, this is the country, but we need to teach our children to speak proper English and pronounce the words correctly. No one is going to give ESL a handout. We must help ourselves. Peoples thinking abilities here are so wrong and so deeply entrenched, there isnt a shovel big enough to dig these people out. That is why no one wants to be bothered with ESL because you might get robbed or be killed doing so. These parents talk to their children like dogs here, and have more money to spend on Wigs, Weaves, fake nails, knock-offs of designer clothing and some raggdy boyfriend or babydaddy than clean clothes for the children! thanks to the great job of parents who dont have half a brain themselves, the kids have learned to curse you out faster than you can so "I". Most of the children look depressed and hopeless. I heard that the Railroad brought plenty jobs here but when it came down to a urine and hair sample for the drug test. 90% of the Blacks couldnt pass it. A large percentage of those that could become employed worked just enought to get a paycheck and then start coming in late, calling off work and guess who got the jobs now? I went to visit my great aunt in one of the elder care facilities and half of the people there I wouldnt trust with a pet frog. Whomever decided that they were going to make ESL Hell on earth and make sure that it would not ever recover, accomplished their task.

Tony Green		07-Dec-2010 19:43
WOW!! I have read some of the things different individuals have emailed, and it is great to read how each individual express their feelings about this city. I am one who moved away from East St. Louis once I graduated in 1981, and I have traveled around the world, but I have always visited the place I consider the first home of my life every year, and I admire the people who are still trying to keep this city on the map. With continue prayer, and hard work it will not become that ghost town, and to the people who think East St. Louis is "BAD" travel to some of these foreign countries..

1959 All American City!!		06-Dec-2010 16:29
CITY OF CRIME!! EAST ST. LOUIS 12/06/10..... Police are looking for three men wearing hoods and ski masks who kicked down the door of a 77-year-old woman who lives in the 1600 block of Boismenue. The suspects tied the woman up with duct tape, then they went to her bedroom looking for money. They found and took a safe from her bedroom closet.

1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY		06-Dec-2010 02:41
JUST A TYPICAL WEEK IN THE SMALL TOWN ON THE BANKS OF THE MISSISSIPPI! EAST ST. LOUIS -- A person of interest is being held in connection with the death of a 81-year-old Herma J. Carr, who was found strangled in her home last week 12/05/10....Police were called to the scene of a reported homicide about 2:30 p.m. Friday at 57th and State streets. The 25th homicide of the year! 12/05/10....East St. Louis police were dispatched to Club Flava about 4:47 a.m., to investigate a call that report gunshots fired and a man down.

Guest		06-Dec-2010 02:30
Does anyone remember Helms Parkway Inn, across from Jones Park, and down the street from Parson'd Field? My family owned it from 1927 to 1954. Grandparents known as Aunt Mary and Pop to everyone. Parents---Wesley and Virginia (Ginny). I was born at Christian Welfare in 1950; no, it was not a welfare hospital! lived on College Ave., then 25th. Went to Longfellow and Slade, attended First Methodist. Moved to Granite City in 1961 due to father's job, but went back for a long time after to see family and friends. First Prom at East Side Jan. 1967!

Tacompsy		02-Dec-2010 23:47
I miss East Side, I went to school and live there for a while. I was borned in St.louis no better. People has lost there mind in St.Louis. If you can get out or go to the county do it. I am now in Texas with my family, waiting on my son

Guest		28-Nov-2010 18:20
I was born in East Saint Louis, and am appauled to see how the industry had moved in, made their money and left..leaving the town in dispair. Until the 70's my family lived there. East Saint Louis is now a ghost town. Even though the business have left there is no reason to let the town become a rubble of trash. People trashed the area, and have since moved to surrounding neighborhoods to start trashing it. There is no reason to build an area up just to let those that don't care destroy it.

Marvinetta Woodley		26-Nov-2010 22:54
I don�t know that I would ever return to East St. Louis and live again. I�ve seen too much of the world to settle for that piece of the sky. However, I�ll always remember my hometown with great fondness. It, and my parents, gave me a solid foundation. Lincoln, class of 1971, is having a forty year reunion September 2011. If you are someone who attended Lincoln in the late 60s or early 70s, please respond here or visit our facebook page ESL Lincoln class of 71 reunion.

1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY		25-Nov-2010 21:59
TO: A RIGG, What drugs are you tripping on? The people on the bluff, the state of Illinois and the Federal tax payers have wasted more money in ESL the last 40 years with nothing to show but FAILURE! NO! No more money to this arm pit of a city that has been long GONE! The only businesses left in ESL are strip joints, crack houses, Discos, liquors stores and wig shops! Anybody with half of a brain needs to get out now so that the State/Fed's can come in and level the city like they are doing in Detroit. Then sell the city to farmers so they can do something productive like growing crops! Any people that won't move transfer them to the Chicago ghetto or North St. Louis! Why don't you write your president and ask him to make a visit to ESL and he can tell them to just hang on for some more of that "Hope and Change"!

guest		24-Nov-2010 00:29
From Proverty, to slum, now just plain ghetto. I am glad I left and will never go back. For what? to put my tax $$$ in somebody else hand to live comfortable, because the citizens will never see it unless you are in the click as usual. Loving LA

a rigg		22-Nov-2010 15:03
i'm reading a book about the gross inequalities in education, citing E. St Louis schools as an example. I think the rich folk up on the bluff and the chemical companies around should be ashamed of themselves for not coming together en masse and swooping down on this poor city & the wonderful people there-in and helping out in every way a neighbor should. Shame on them forever & their rotten greed & bless the wonderful kind good people of East St Louis - PEACE ON EARTH !!!

Guest		21-Nov-2010 14:39
well these photos are a reminder of what ESL once was and what it is now. I still live here and hold out hope that it will return to the great city it once was and bring back the pride we all use to have.

Guest		18-Nov-2010 19:58
My name is Father Donald M Weeks, OSB. I lived at 1702 MLK and was chaplain of Gateway Community Hospital (formally Christian Welfare)During my time there I was robbed twice. The police did nothing about it, even though I knew who did it. But I knew Wyvetter Younge and Kenneth Hall and decided to stay in ESL. I sponsored classes at Clark Jr. High and held a parade for the old folks at the hospital. I knew and visited with many young thugs and was appointed to the Gang Task Force by the President of the USA. I often attended the McCausland Church. I remember Jones Park and Parsons Father Donald M Weeks OSB

ESL born and raised		17-Nov-2010 20:46
i agree with Mr. Guest because ESL is still where my grandmother live and i just left there like three months ago and I missed home before I even left ESL is home it will never be forgotten and its wrong how you all can say that you may or may not lived there but to put my city down like it never had potential i think honestly who ever lived in the 618 area period or not you wouldn't be the person you are today

edward carpenter		15-Nov-2010 06:45
My name is edward carpenter I'm 47 yrs old grew up on Hall street in E.st Louis and in the gompers, My folks ran M.C's lounge in the 70,s up to the late 80's both of them are gone now my cuz was Robert perry who own Perry's lounge across the street on 9th an exchange. let's all get together and have a big ass party.

sherry		10-Nov-2010 03:09
Hello I'm Sherry Williams-I saw the comment from Kevin Floyd (State st address)I lived on 53rd the dead end st lived right up the street from Linda Gregory and the Ames Temple. I attended hawthorne elementary,then clark jr high and of course E.side high. Would love to touch bases with some other class mates if you have a clue where anyone might be. Bernard Taylor, Gerald Brooks,June Hamilton(female) Elise Preston,Vian Prude, Jacqueline Williams,Karen Walker,Hope Carruthers,Cherry Swift, Cedric. Part of the e.side chess team during 1977-1980 timeframe

Guest from the past		09-Nov-2010 18:45
I grew up in E. St. Louis in the 60-80's attended Slade, Clark Jr. High and the fabulous flyers--E. St. Louis Sr. High. I felt the support of both family and friends and not to mention the neighbor that cared for the children within the area. It was a true village and I felt safe and loved. I recently visited my neighborhood and what sad sight to see, my heart grieved and I suddenly wonder if the people were the same, (caring and kind)?

karen		03-Nov-2010 07:31
I was born in E St Louis in 1947. My mother's name was Marjorie Trice. She had two sisters; Eva and Doris. If these people are familiar to anyone, could you respond to this posting.

Chaundelyne		01-Nov-2010 17:49
I had relatives that lived around the 25th & Waverly area, lol. I remember the B&P variety that sat on the corner there of 25th & Waverly and Fas... Ass... Valerie that worked there on the inside.

Chaundelyne		29-Oct-2010 14:06
To Ladycamaro, you maybe able to find info on your subject matter at the East St. Louis Public Library. I know they were an archive once that kept very old articles on microfiche and things of that nature. Hell..., I was even shocked to find an old telephone book from 1967 which had my late grandma's phone number published in it. I hate very much I didn't have that page xeroxed, damn! You should be able to find it there if you've not found what you're seeking by now.

den		28-Oct-2010 12:03
I and my brother,sisters were born on Bond Avenue.I still remember the house like yesterday.I went to Alti Sida School for one year and then we moved to Maplewood.I herd stories of the crime later on but i dont remember any when i was there.That was like 1948 to 1956.Great Great pictures realy love some of the old houses.My dad worked for a company called KEY company.My uncle worked for the ILL.Railroad,My Aunt worked for a large packing house.

Louann Foster		20-Oct-2010 00:27
Hello my name is Louann (Buchholz). I was born in July of 1957 at Christian Welfare Hospital.I attended Longfellow school until 2 months in to my 4th grade year when we re-located for my dads job. I also attended Lansdowne Baptist Church.We often went to Jones' Park. My 1st grade teacher was Mrs. Williams, other teacher's names I remember were Mrs. Mabry, and Mrs Coke.If there is anyone out there that recognizes my name, please feel free to get in touch. I often think about living there. Some of the streets were 21st street, and Parsons Ave. etc.I can remember my patenal grandparents lived on 36th & Waverly and my maternal grandparents lived on St Clair Ave. It is really a shame that places end up like E St. Louis has, but it only happens if you let it happen. I am really happy that my brother found this site and told me about it so that maybe I can find some of my classmates.

Marvinetta Woodley-Penn		18-Oct-2010 02:53
Marvinetta I was born and raised in East St. Louis in the 50's through most of the 70's. I loved the city and still visit friends and family still there. The town of my youth, though segregated, was all about family and community. Adults could chastise you and not blink an eye. But of course that was a totally different era. I fondly remember my days at John Robinson, Hughes Quinn and Lincoln. Great parents, neighbors and teachers helped make me the person I am today. I'd love to find Mr. Trent, Mr. Barber, Mr. Rothschild and Mr. Avery and just see where they are now.

Peggy		15-Oct-2010 20:54
I was born and raised in E. St. Louis (1940 @ St. Mary's) and am very blessed to have carried the memories of that great city to this day. I never fail to tell someone how it was to grow up there. It was a time when children could play outside by themselves and never be afraid or even thinking anything would happen to them. There was a nightclub on collinsville ave. a block or so before getting to broadway, I would walk from 6th street and set on the curb, just to watch all the fancy dressers come and go. I can't remember the name of the place. I also remember the Avenue Theater,(owned by Mr. Hamburger) the tickets were only ten cents, while the Majestic was fifteen cents.and all the dime stores. My sister used to work at a place called Skyes Drug Store, & we all would go there for cherry cokes or cherry fosfates. We later moved out on Bond Avenue and I attended Lafayette School. 1st thru 8th grade,graduating in 1954, and later went to Dupo High. I would love to hear from some of my old classmates. I could go on & on, but won't at this time, I'm excited that I came across this web site. LATER!!!!

James (Jaybird) Norris		11-Oct-2010 22:50
Wow, ran up on this by chance. Lots of good dialouge. I was born in E. St. Louis on the 21st day of 1945, I spent my early years in "Lock Town", 300 block of N. 27th St. Went to Attucks Elementary, Hughes-Quinn and Rock. Moved to the Gompers as a High-Schooler andwent to East Side. E. St. Louis wasn't the Murder Capital of the world when I grew up there, it was "Home",all of my values come from growing up there and Going to Morning Star Baptist Church led by Rev. Garfield Hubbard! I have four (4) children, they all were born at Christian Welfare, My Mom retired from there! I grew up in the Gompers with people like O.C. Hughes and Chico Davis who cared about young people and offered them haven at "The Club" and "The Sal". Kudos to my old friend Odie, I am so happy for you, my friend! I left East Boogie in 1995 and traveled the world, God Blessed me with the job opportunity. I live in the Chicago area now, but my heart is still at home. My daughter lives in Granite City and teaches in 189 and I still have many relatives down there, maybe they are in Belleville, Granite City, Shiloh, but it is still home. Every now and again, I get a taste for a "Snoot", have to go home, can't get it anywhere else, sometimes it's a St. Paul sandwich, can't get it anywhere else. I have lived in New York with the biggest Chinatown in the USA, ask for a St. Paul, they look at you like you are crazy, same thing in Chicago, 2nd largest Chinatown.When I show up at my daughters door, she asks me, "what is it, a snoot or a St. Paul", I tell her both, but most of all to see you and the Grandkids and I just feel soooo good being at home! Stop blaming "White Flight", that happened when I was a young man, in the 70's, what is wrong with E.St.Louis now is, "The Greed of the politians, all of the Federal Grant money squandered because of greed. Help clean it up Odie. God Bless. Jaybird

prodigal son		09-Oct-2010 13:06
there is too much hurt from these people of this site its too much to bare.....let me tell you all a story once there was a city and now there isnt,lets start over.... 1.crime rate is because of poverty. 2.poverty is because of no jobs. 3.no jobs is because no educational support. 4.support starts at home with daddy and mommy. 5.we dont grow our own crops 6.etc....... 7.how many of these do i have to do,lets get started.....

Guest		09-Oct-2010 06:39
I was born in Christian Welfare in 1947. Raised near 62nd street and State and attended Morrison School on 59th Street. I loved ESL back then until I went to Clark Jr. High. Took the city bus to school until I was robbed at knife point for my books, money and once my lunch. Parents transferred me to St. Phillip's and I was never robbed. I used to work with my dad at his shop near the Majestic but I was robbed and beaten one night for $15 bucks. My dad was robbed several times until he had to close his shop and move to Collinsville. I used to enjoy Jone's Park and Parson's field until, you guessed it, robbery, beatings, knifings, etc. I hate to rain on many of your parade's but ESL is a crap hole. The robberies and killings began in the 60s and ran almost all of the nice businesses and high wage earning people out of ESl to Fairview, Belleville, OFallon etc. What is left of ESL is a sewer.

Kevin Floyd		26-Sep-2010 02:41
Stumbled on this site much by accident and will have to come back when I have more time to browse the comments. I was not born in East St. Louis, but moved there in 1968 when I was 4. I lived at the corner of 22nd and Kansas and then on State Street. I have so many good memories about growing up in East St. Louis.

sheerelegance1922		23-Sep-2010 17:29
I was born in ESL in the late 50's, attended Franklin Elementary, Hughes Quinn Jr. High and Lincoln Sr. High. I also have extremely fond memories of my childhood living in the Southend/6th Street area. Our community was like one big happy family everyone new each other.. Teachers often lived in the same community they taught. We could sleep outside on a pallet or leave doors and windows open to catch a night breeze. I moved away shortly after college to Columbus Ohio. I was born in Christian Welfare Hospital. Amazingly so many places no longer exist anymore including my beloved alma mater where our strong bands shall ne'er be broken fromed at Lincoln High. when I found out that our belved school was closing I felt a part of me was shutting down down too. I recall in the 70's right before it was my turn to go to Lincoln and join the band with Mr. Myrick, the district announced the closing of the school and all freshmen would be sent to East Side, oh how we cried and wailed. Eventually they heard our cries and decided to leave our school open. That was more than likely the begining of the decline of our schools enrollment since so many of the would have been incoming freshmen's parents just left them to attend East side. My graduating class of 1976 consisted of approixmately 97 students but we had just as much school spirit as those that had graduated before us. The rivalry between E.Side and Lincoln was fierce, but no one got hurt, shot or killed, we respected each other. so sad that our hometown has become a cesspool for such violence, our youth respect no one people being shot for somthing as trivial as a cigarette. We all need to interced on behalf of those that remain.

Jackie Kennedy Schmith		21-Sep-2010 15:40
would love to hear from old East St. Louis friends...my late husband went to the Lansdowne Baptist Church...does anyone remember Phillip Schmith? I would love to hear if anyone knows the whereabouts of Joyce Best...I lost contact with her about 30 years ago...my that seems such a long time ago. I was born in 1951 at St. Mary's and grew up on North Park Drive went to Hawthrone and Lansdowne then East Side. My grandmother ran a little store not far from Jones Park Kennedy's confectionary. I unfortuneatley was related to that man that owned Cleve's Grill and spent many an unhappy day there.jackieirish@yahoo.com

Ted Hagler		13-Sep-2010 16:14
I lived in ESL in 1949,1950, and 1951, My father along with my uncle had a lumber & coal yard on St Clair Ave. We lived on 3618 & 3641 Mc Casland ave. I remember the little confectionary on Bond ave. also the park,I think the name of the park was Lafayette park. We had a basketball goal at one end of the tennis court. I remember help building it. It also had a waiding pool in the park, and for some reason they filled it in. I also went to Landsdown Jr. High school I remender one of my teachers was MR. Frazer. when I told him i use to live in Crawfordsville Ind. HE told me that he graduated from Wabash Collage in Cville. I also went to Lafayette Grade school on Bond avenue. One of my teachers there was Mrs. Collens of the 6th. grade. SORRY TO SEE THE deterioration of the city.

Karen		08-Sep-2010 18:15
I was born and raised in ESL in 1959. My last name then was Miles. My family and I lived at 2207 Gaty Ave. I attended Attucks, Martin Luther King Jr High and East Side, graduating in 1977. I have experienced do many memories from reading through the entries here. I remember Crisp Confectionary across fom New Hope Church, which my family and I attended. Would love to hear from any East Side 77' alumni.

One who loved their birth city		08-Sep-2010 14:58
I often feel so sad over what has happened to my birth city, E.St. Louis. I was raised on Gaty Ave. until the middle of my fifth grade and then we moved to N. Park Dr., where I resided with my family until I was almost 24. I then married in E. St. Louis and moved to Collinsville and later moved to St. Louis. I tell my grandchildren how we had so much fun playing outdoors until it was time for us to go to bed. We would play tag or hide and go seek in the dark with the help of a street light and never were we afraid. When asked where I was born and raised I try to justify all the wonderful things that were, at one time, once a great E. St.Louis. Until residents, including politicians, once again regain a pride like we felt about E.St. Louis, it will remain a slum city.

Guest		06-Sep-2010 18:00
my name is wayland smith and i too was born in e.st.louis(pollock town 2137 gaty ave.) relate to the hopkins and the sterlings. my old hood looks like a war zone, empty ad burned houses monsters walking the streets, just a few original "locktown" residents still remain there, its so sad. i love living there when i was a kid in the early to mid 70's wish things could change there and throughout the city....

pjaries07		04-Sep-2010 21:28
Pat (Crisp) Jackson Wow, I stubble upon this site by accident. I live in Houston Texas now and was looking to connect with East Saint Louis natives living in the Houston area. I was home in May of this year and yes it is so sad to see our city in the shape that it�s in. Regardless, it is and always will be home. I love going home, and still have many relatives there, and both of my parents Leroy and Dorcas Crisp are buried there. I grew up in what was called Pollock town for many years until my family moved to 24th street where our family house still remains. I attend Attucks, Parks, Hughes Quinn and East Side High School. I have very fond memories of my childhood. My parents owed Crisp Confectionary on the corner of 24th and Mo. Ave. across from New Hope Church. I am diffidently interested in doing what I can to help revitalize East Saint Louis. East Saint Louis is not alone there are many cities across this country that have been abandoned sort of speak. If anyone from the city lives in the Houston area please contact me. I would love to hear from native East Saint Louisianan, I can be reach at trishjackson07@yahoo.com.

Guest		31-Aug-2010 18:33
I sure wish I could find pictures of Rubies, the Hat Shop on 15th Street, the Chinese Restaurant on 15 & Broadway, the Sportsman's, Mother's, Pudgy's, the Celebrity Room, the Midtown. Where is Joann, Harvey J., Poochie, P. Harris, Mississippi, O. Nelson, E. Leroy? I was quite a party person. Really miss the 60's. Miss East St. Louis even more. Good times in the 60's. Real people back then. East St. Louis was the place to be.

Guest		31-Aug-2010 07:05
my mother abandoned her three sons in east st louis in the mid 60's their names were maurice williams, james williams and randolph williams. does anyone remember 3 brothers last name of williams growing up without a mother? there father's name was james and she supposedly put him in a wheelchair. this might have been around 1966

Brenda Acoff		26-Aug-2010 19:15
Hi my name is Brenda (Price) Acoff. I was born and raised in E. St. Louis and have been here all of my life. I read through many of the postings and as with most, I stumbled on this cite accidentally. I am searching for my twin sisters. The were born sometime in the 1950s. The mother's name is "Louise", I believe she later married a gentleman named "Daniel" (could be his last name). They initially lived on 15th & Bond over the Conrad Fish Market. When they were infants, my parents were slightly involved in their lives, but I have never seen them since they were babies. I have been searching for them, but can not find them. Their names (as I remember) are Deborah and Dorothy. I do not know if they ever took our father's last name which is Price. If anyone reads this posting and can give me any information, please do.

Paul Stacker		22-Aug-2010 22:40
Paul Stacker here. I was born at Barnes Hospital in St. Louis in 1967 and raised in East Saint. I went to Morrison, St. Joseph's, and St. Phillip's for grade school. Attended Assumption and Althoff before graduating from East Side in 1985. Since then, I've done some time in the Army before setling down outside of Tucson, AZ. I keep in touch with friends and family back home, and it saddens me to see that my hometown has gotten worse with the passage of time. I am currently working on my MBA and plam on using the economic revival of East St. Louis as my thesis. My ultimate goal is to help my home become the city it was meant to be. To everyone back in East Saint, Stay Strong and Stay Positive!

J. Turner		21-Aug-2010 20:04
Dream the impossible dream, fight the unbeatable foe, bear the unbearable sorrow, run, where the brave dare not go. Noble, huh? On this city, my birthplace, I fall short. The only running I did, was in haste and away from there. This city is quite a challenge. I heard that the soil is so environmentally damaged there can be no future stake in it. I was born there too, many years ago. Everything you have heard in these writings by many, are true. If ever "the good, bad, and ugly" applies, E. St. Louis is it. I am literally afraid to return. Once driving through along Interstate 70, I was appalled to see how horrendous, not only E. St. Louis is, but St. Louis, Mo, also. The O'Jays had it right. THE WORLD IS A GHETTO. It is uncomprehensible that the United States of America would let it happen to ANY city, let alone, E. St. Louis. This is America, for God's sake! Well, let me end this, I want to get my blood pressure down. Bye y'all.

Guest		20-Aug-2010 17:00
Hazel Liddell-Johnson To Eric Brewer: I remember you and your family from the big "E". We in the same classes thru Webster. Your dad was a political staple for the neighborhood. I think of you often because you had the best penmanship for a guy I had ever seen. Funny how we remember things like that. I too am proud to be from the big "E". Teachers like Mr. Cleveland Chandler and Mr. Blevins encouraged us to rise above our circumstances. I praise God for them continually. I keep in touch with Carolyn Bond and my relatives (the Culley's). I go home often. I remember the good times growing up there and see past the present. I was saddened to hear that Howard, Reginald and Billy had passed. All were close friends of mine. It's good to hear of old friends that are not ashamed of their childhood hometown. For if we prospered later in life, I believe the big "E" played a part in that. I have been blessed and will always give props to my childhood hometown. Take care and blessings.

Guest		19-Aug-2010 04:51
Denise Cosby born and raised in e St Louis, Il attended Monroe Elementary School, Rock Jr. High and then the greatest E St Louis sr High School. Left to attend Tennessee State University. Lived in Los Angeles and Atlanta Georgia and loved it.Presently, relocated back to the E St Louis area and enjoying operating a barber college and a prison barber shop. Njoy life, people, family and fun!

Mary Jane Hunter		18-Aug-2010 22:36
I was born and raised in E.St.Louis,IL.in St.Mary's Hospital in 1950. Started school at Lafayette on Bond Ave. Grewup at 202 N 45th St. Went to Rock Jr High and E. Side. High. Moved the summer of 1967 to a little place called Poplar Bluff MO. Since then have gone on to be District Manager for several H&R Block offices. I enjoyed my growing years in E. St. Louis. It was the only place I had ever known. It was a large metropolis, but everyone still seemed to be willing to help each other. My father owned his own company and made a decent living for all his children.

eric_brewer		17-Aug-2010 03:42
I was born in Cleveland,Ohio in 1953, but my parents, Harold and Ann Brewer, relocated me and my sister, Donna, and I to Saint Louis in 1956 and East Saint Louis in 1958. Three of my four siblings, Barbara, Jeffrey and Harold (Tyke) were born in Saint Louis. We lived in the 2100 block of Market Street next door to the Russell family and then at apartment 14G for 10 years in the Samuel Gomper Homes. I attended Alta Sita Elementary School, Webster Elementary School and then Assumption Catholic High School with now U.S. Senator Dick Durbin and former San Antonio Spurs player Rick Suttles until we relocated back to Cleveland in 1969. Dad was very active in ESL politics with Travis "Planky" Scott who owned a Phillips 66 gas station at 6th and State Street (now MLK Blvd). He drove for Bi-State for 13 years. I remember meeting Katherine Dunham, Clyde Jordan (The Monitor newspaper), Mr. Kirkpatrick (The Crusader newspaper), Ike Turner and a lot of fabulous people during the 1960's. Planky gave me my first real job pumping gas and changing tires at his gas station, and I played trumpet - briefly - with the Young Disciples. Jerry O - who sang "Karate Boogaloo" - let me sit in with his group as a kid and I remember playing at Scott AFB with the late Howard Mister in a band. I learned from former ESL Chief of Police James Mister - who grew up with me in the Gomper Homes - that many of our classmates, including Howard, died tragically. Reginald Killion, Billy Miller - may you Rest in Peace. I remember with great fondness many of my Gomper Home friends, people like the Burris' who lived next door, the Newell's across the drive, the Harris family "Diane, Judy and their brother Harry, who I believed died in Vietnam. I played taps at Ben Newell's funeral months after he was drafted into the Vietnam War and was returned home. I attended St. Luke AME with Rev. Wharton as pastor and served for years as one of his alter boys. Carl Officer was also a member if my memory serves me correctly. My teachers at Webster are the only ones whose names that are indelibly embedded in my mind. Ms. Allen 1st grade, Ms. Phillips 2nd grade, Ms. Smith third grade, Ms. Rayburn 4th grade, Mr. Hudson 5th grade, Mr. Seabury 6th grade, Ms. Abbegg 7th grade and Ms. Leoffler 8th grade. Mr. Goldsmith was principal and Ms. Reed was his secretary. I'm 56 and still amazed that I know all this. Living in a predominantly African American city helped me in immeasurable ways. Our educators challenged us. We learned more about Black history there than I did anywhere else. My father organized other Dads to found a Boy Scout troop and a Little League baseball team and Planky bought the uniforms for us ... the East Saint Louis BlueJays. This environment taught me, like brother Paul Robeson, that there was nothing inferior about Black people. Yes we faced some discrimination, but the difference is that the Black people in ESL were somewhat militant, fearless and undaunted. There's something about being a member of a majority group, knowing it and acting like it, even during difficult times. Upon returning to Cleveland, after my ESL exposure, everyone told me I was "different." That difference has always been a blessing and not a burden to me. I went back in 2005 and saw the city for the first time since 1978. It was hearbreaking but I understood. The integration of Bellville and Centerville opened many new neighborhoods to people who "grew." The only thing that changed, to some degree, was that the crooks stealing and abusing people changed from White to Black. James Mister told me that blocks of vacant land in the city was cheap and that the casinos brought in by former Mayor Gordon Bush had actually helped boost the city's budget by more than $1 million a month. I'll visit the city again but I've moved on from ESL like many others. But I have always been proud to be an alumnus of the city and cherish all of my childhood memories and the friends I made while there. May God bless all who have stayed, returned and are devoting their time to making it a better place to live. When you think of all the great people who have lived there, from Josephine Baker, to Katherine Dunham, to Jackie Jackie Joyner-Kersee, to Robert Guillame, former Deputy UN Ambassador Donald McHenry, the Hudlin Brothers to Dick Durbin and many, many others, ESL has so much to build upon it can't be stopped from making a comeback. If you're wondering why I'm so long-winded, thank Clyde Jordan and Mr. Kirkpatrick. I'm a journalist and former newspaper publisher and they were the first two men I ever met who owned newspapers.

Tony. Houston.		16-Aug-2010 18:09
To Denny Reynolds,, I too lived on 23rd and State. We moved in 1963 to Waverley Ave. My brother Joe and I went to Slade School too.

shonda1978		16-Aug-2010 02:35
I was born in E.St. louis in december of 1973. In nov 0f 1978 when i was 4years old. My mom got hurt in the orr weathers apartment building. She fell threw an elevator that had no floor.If any older people on this site remeber that accident. cant you please tell me more about it.

Guest		16-Aug-2010 02:08
This message is for Charlene I too was born in ESTL in 1951.. I went to Morrison grade school, Clark Jr High and East Side. Where did you all go to school and what are some of your siblings first names. If anyone can help her find her siblings please do so. I know that I would be lost without my family.

buvette baker		14-Aug-2010 06:44
i remember getting beer at drive thrus in east st. louis when i was at collinsville high. east st louis looked like sarajevo. big beautiful churches burned and bombed out. zombies everywhere.

shonnieville		09-Aug-2010 20:57
Does anybody remember the Red Door? They sell Snoots too. Everytime we go back to EAST SAINT LOUIS, my mother makes her brother take her to the Snoots place! I have fun everytime I go back there. The pictures on this site is just what it looks like now. All I will say to you all is this: If you from there but are not living there now, buy yourself a house with some land and hold on to it so when the economy worsens you can leave those big mortgages behind and live mortgage and rent free. The starting Bid at the auction is only $750 and most walk away with a home at that price! Now take 5 or 10 grand and invest in it and you have yourself a decent home with a lot of rich land. Just food for thought.

Guest		09-Aug-2010 17:38
What a shame. I was a white kid from Collinsville, born in 1950 and remember shopping in downtown E StL as a kid with my parents ....dad was the district mgr for Sherwin-Williams Paint Co and he had to call on a couple of his stores there. I was never afraid and until the late 1960's I would ride the bus for 10 cents from Collinsville to downtown StL walk all around downtown StL; Famous Barr, Boyds,Stix,Scruggs,Woolworths and a slice of pie and a soda from the cafeteria across from Famous. Back on the bus through E StL and home. Never once had any trouble. I would'nt do that now on a bet! Sure miss the old days. Not to mention basketball rivalry between E StL high( Pick Dehner) and Collinsville ( Vergil Fletcher) no guns ,no riots. Drag racing late Friday nite and a "Nightmare" sandwich from Price's Drive-In. Wish our kids had a chance to experience some of that.

Charlene		08-Aug-2010 16:00
Hey everyone I could use some help!!!!!!!! My twin sister and I were born at Christian Welfare Hospital on November 21,1951. Here is where I need some help. Our parents lived at 548 N. 84th. Schaefer was our birth surnames. We were given up for adoption and we are trying to find our siblings. Story goes that we have 5 or 7 siblings. We would love to find them or let us know where to find them. My twin sister and I were re-united in 1995 and we have cherished every moment. Hope we can find someone before our bdays in November. Thanks for any help.

Guest		24-Jul-2010 20:45
Hello All i too was born in East Saint Louis Illinois at Christian Welfare Hospital in 1966. I lived out in what is called the South End on Tudor right down from then Mayor Mason and his family they lived on the corner with sons Billy and Terry Mason. My granddparents were James and Ruth Carter I went to Wesley Bethel AME Church and i attended Dunbar Elementary School and Lauren Parks and i attended the same school and also your now Mayor Alvin Parks. The principal at the time of my attendence was Mr. McKinney. I could go on and on but to make a long story short East Saint Louis will always be my home i was recently there in 2004 to bury my mother. Levi King did the services his mother and my grandmother were friends as well as his dad Calvin King. Officer Funeral Home buried my grandparents. Lottie B. Teer was a friend of the family as well. I wish one day soon that i can come back and just retrace all of the old stomping grounds. My grandmother and i use to go on Sunday's after church to Sandy's BBQ on 15th and Bond and get a good old snoot sandwich this is really bring back old memories for me.I ust to sing in the choir with Quincy Fielding so if anyone reading this post can reflect to any of these things we go way back.

Jay		21-Jul-2010 03:37
Memoirs of East Saint Louis are rooted within us that was born and raised there. Growing up at 709 North 15th in the 60's and 70's right behind Longfellow school, playing with the McGee�s, the Longs, Lillie Mitchell and family. There were also names like Moochie and Lamar, Soroya, Kim and Buster, Alice, Blair Perry, Dartanya Robinson and others I cannot recall. I remember Utsseys store right on the corner of 15th and Summit, also Dairy Queen at the corner of 15th and Saint Clair. I remember Mr. Niemacheck principal of Longfellow also my flavorite teachers Ms. Coker and Ms. Pinkie. Memories unforgotten!

Terri Lee Johnson		21-Jul-2010 02:07
My brother Eric was born at Christian Welfare in May '62. We lived in the Orr Weathers apartments, E-2 bldg, apt 711 from '62 to '64 after which we moved to our mother's hometown of K.C.KS so that I could attend kindergarten. I'm 50 now & have wonderful memories of Orr Weathers: the Mister Softee truck, our great neighbors Kate Ward and Lenora Rodgers. Our mother, Opal S. Johnson, passed away in April 2010 in Houston, TX where we now live. We hope our neighbors or their kids see this & remember too.

Jimmy Brennan		17-Jul-2010 04:22
Does anybody who grew up in the South End on Piggott Avenue remember Doc Brennan's Drugstore? It was directly across from the Washington Grade School. He was my Grandfather. His drugstore was torn down to make way for the exit ramp leading off the Poplar Street Bridge around 1964 when the bridge was built. I need to hear memories of Doc's Drugstore. I was only six years old at the time!

Dante Banks		15-Jul-2010 17:57
East St Louis is a city with a strong history and strong communities! I see no reason for the current conditions, we all need to put our resources and talents together to get it done!! A city that is 98% black, you know if we don't save East St Louis, nobody else will. The ICAN Corporation is looking to make major investments in the city of East St Louis-this is a black owned company, that specializes in serving communities-we help you to help yourself! Feedback needed from concerned residents of East St Louis!

Richard		29-Jun-2010 20:22
Would that be Micky Mitchell whos owned family owned the store? I remember e.st. louis well I attended Wilson, Harding, edgemont, Clark and King before we moved. Richard

Guest		20-Jun-2010 14:58
Graduated from East Side in '54, went to Jefferson, Landsdowne and loved living there. Went to Winstanley Baptist Church, loved the Majestic Theater, and riding the bus all over town and across the river to St Louis was never a problem. Coach Downing had great football teams and was such fun on Thanksgiving Day to play our big rival. It was a great place and a great time to grow up.

Guest		20-Jun-2010 05:36
For Edna (Jones) Spears. I knew an Edna Jones when I lived on 14th St. in East St. Louis. Do you have a sister named Marilyn? My family lived in the house next to Longfellow Grade School. We were the Mitchells. Would like to hear from you and catch up on life with you and your family.

Karen		16-Jun-2010 16:47
I was born in Centreville Welfare Hospital in 1959 and went to Crispus Attucks Elem School, Martin Luther King Jr High and graduated from E. Side in 1977. My family lives on Gaty Ave from 1965 - 1980. Are there any E. Side 77 graduates???

Guest		15-Jun-2010 22:55
I, too, found this site by accident. As a graduate of East Side,I was looking for the Flyer network and stumbled acrossed it. Thank's to Jayson for providing a forum for current and former residents of the East Side. I grew up on 8th and Summit. What I found out is now referred to as "the stro". Graduated from East Side in '68, moved West in '74 but came back periodically, holidays, etc., to visit family. My family's roots were from the South End, Gaty, Brady Ave and worked their way up the hill to Hilltop. My mother had a beauty shop next to Clark on State St. I used to deliver the Journal in that neighborhood. The E. St. Louis I remember growing up was still a relatively safe place. Of course, there were neighborhoods, areas where poverty and crime had taken hold, that you knew to avoid. Still, alot of hard working people. I've never been ashamed to call E.St. Louis my home town. When you tell people from another area of the country your from E.St. Louis they invariably say "oh yeah, St. Louis". You hear that so often, rather than go into a lengthy explanation, you just say, "yeah St. Louis". As I would come back over the years, I witnessed the gradual decline. It wasn't until I read the Time article that I realized how severe the situation was. I also used to hang out at Hannigan's and Price's and all points in between. Harold Price coached our grade school football team. A good man. I went to grade school with his daughter. So tragic, that he was murdered during a robbery. Still have friends and family that live in the Metro East. It's going to take major multiple investnments to bring the area back to an All American city. But with two sitting national congressmen, who grew up in E.St. Louis, that could be a start. Sorry, Coz

Guest		09-Jun-2010 01:41
I found out a few months ago that Bonnie Dixon passed away in 2003 .... she was an amazing person, an amazing mother and I know everyone who loved her misses her terribly. She graduated from ESL in 1958.

angie a		09-Jun-2010 00:36
i grew up in east st louis graduated c/o 87 east side, i loved the city, now when i bring my children to there grandmother's house in washington pk, my children get a little scared. but i still love east st louis

denisse		06-Jun-2010 01:08
i grew up till 5 on 52nd st went to st. cyril elementary school, my grandparents lived there till died next door their name was waggoner, i might have played on the street as a kid with some pf you, im going next month to st. louis, will take some pics...we lived behind the pile family i remember them comming in our back yard to fight the boys wonder where they all are now,

S.White		03-Jun-2010 16:55
Wow! A great site to help us remember the city. I grew up there from bith at Christian Welfare in '63 until I got married in '87 and moved to GA. in '88 looking for work that paid a liveable wage. I remember East Side football between '79 and '81, State champs two of those three years and it was awesome playing in the band those three years. I remember being able to walk at night from 25th and Monroe Ave. clear across town to the Orr-Weathers apts. without any fear, to play basketball. Sadly, I remember taking that walk for the last time in the mid 80's with a pistol in my pocket, out of fear of the gangs. The good memories far out number the bad and for this I am greatful. I go back periodically to visit family and friends and for funerals. Contributed by Sanford White

1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY!!!!!		02-Jun-2010 12:03
TWO MEN SHOT TO DEATH IN EAST ST LOUIS OVER MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND!! SO WHAT'S NEW?????? WHEN WILL THE KILLING STOP!!!???? CAN'T WE ALL JUST GET ALONG??!!!

Mary Pollock Hammock		31-May-2010 21:48
Today was the day that our neighbor, Ms. Lovie Davis would take us to Forest Park zoo for a picnic and visit the zoo. There are still good memories of East St. Louis.

1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY!!!		30-May-2010 14:13
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!UPDATE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Three years ago School District 189 spent $1,500 of taxpayer money to purchase an 11-year-old Pontiac Grand Am for a student as a reward for perfect attendance??!! Maybe a scholarship would have been a better idea?? Last month they spent around $25,000 to send 31 students to a 3 day youth jazz festival in Monterey, Calif??!! Maybe scholarships would have been a better idea?? Sen. Dick Durbin and the U.S. Department of Education, whose offices are reviewing the district's expenditures of federal grants, including millions of dollars in spending reported by the Belleville News Democrat. Recently more than $1,000 for 100 copies of a book about President Barack Obama written by a district sports coach, And flying an Olympic champion from Las Vegas to the district and advancing nearly $5,000 to Superintendent Theresa Saunders for travel??!! Maybe scholarships would have been a better idea?? I tell you what the problem is with MY Home Town EAST ST LOUIS.........??

Jesse Thorton Sr		30-May-2010 06:38
I grew up in East Saint Louis, on 52nd State Street. I was one of the lucky young men who made it out! I made it out by my Grandmother (Beatrice Thorton) working and praying for me. I took advantage of many opportunities that fronted me, including doing the street dirt. Now, I am 35yrs old and a father of a child that resides in ESTL. I worry about what she see's and how she feels about her city and the people living there.

margo		29-May-2010 16:16
I went to John Robinson Elementary School, Hughes-Quinn,Jr. High, and graduated from Lincoln High in 1968. I lived on 14th and Piggott. I now live in California but still have many relatives in E. St. Louis. I have a special place in my heart for that city and believe it can be brought back to life and prosper. Despite what many people think that have never lived there, there are many good people that live in ESL (more good than bad). People only hear the bad side. Unfortunately, people living there feel hopeless and see no hope for change. It will more likely take the natives who moved out to bring back life and prosperity to ESL. I visited a few years ago and was just amazed at the beautiful land all those dilapidated houses are sitting on! Californians would have a field-day buying up that property and fixing it up; buying that land and building businesses to create jobs. That's the way they do it here. The economy right now is tough for everyone, but there are enough of us natives that can pool together and make a change! Wherever you are living now, I'd like to hear personally from my former or current ESL natives. Drop me an email at mob442@gmail.com.

Renee		27-May-2010 16:14
My great grandfather owned a saloon in the early 1900's it was on Piggott around the 616 block. Does anyone know what the name was? We have a picture of him behind the bar and some customers and there is a ghost of civil war soldier in it.

ALL AMERICAN CITY 1959!!		23-May-2010 23:16
WELL! I have got some Good News to report!!!! District 189 sells Clark Jr. High School plus Five acres for $1,101. ESL wanted chance to buy it, but no offer was made!! HMMMMMMMM? All you people that have the great memories of ESL in it's Hay Day can now start putting your money where your mouth is!! Let's renew EAST ST LOUIS......THE ALL AMERICAN CITY 1959!!! 2010???????

Ben Thomas		21-May-2010 19:34
Some of your names sound very familiar. I am Ben Thomas. I went to St. Joseph's, Monroe, Clark, graduated from East Side in 73, and attended SIUE. I currently reside in the DC area, but make it back to the city at least once per year. For those of you still living there, continue to love your city.

Dan Simpson		15-May-2010 15:27
I lived in E StL in the 1950's. Started school at Jefferson School, 25th & Waverly. Some classmates I remember were Walter Moore, Howard Gull, & Carol Watson. We moved to St. Louis County in 1959, my parents had been commuting to Wellston & Overland. We lived on Noth 26th Street, just across the creek from North Park Drive. Some of the neighborhood kids were Rembish, Broadway, & Beckenball.

Nartica		15-May-2010 01:35
This is so interesting. I moved from ESL in 1970, relocating in Phoenix. AZ, where I'm presently living. I attended Monroe Elementary, Rock, and graduated from East Side. Our family home was 1612 St. Louis Ave. I understand it's been gone for decades. I had the pleasure of attending a 40 year reunion in 2008, or 09??? It was a gathering at Frank Holton (sp) Park area. Nice affair. ESL looked pretty dismal from this view. There was clear evidence of economic based social, criminal and finanical results; poverty, apathy, political abandonment. Without question, a significant change of culture than when I was raised there. In fact, we never locked our doors, and I can't remember any threatening incidents. As a teen I tried to skate, can not remember where. And danced on Sunday nights at the Masonic. My favorite teacher was Mrs. Hudson (8th) grade at Monroe. But the teacher who really formed my future was Mrs. Rhymer in the 7th grade. She always told us students that if we paid attention and learned English as she taught it, we'd have the tools needed for life. She was so right! Otherwise I seriously would not have been prepared for this competitive world and job market!!!. My BEST friend was and still is Vicki Lowe. Though I remember having a friendly time with many. Best Wishes to all.

Dan Simpson		14-May-2010 18:04
I lived in E Stl in 50's. Started school at Jefferson School, 25th & Waverly. I lived on North 36th St, acroos the dreek, off of North Park Drive. Schoolmates were Walter Moore, Howard Gull. Neighbor kids were the Broadways & Rembishes.

Dan Simpson		13-May-2010 21:14
My parents moved to 2205 N 36th St (across the creek from N. Park Drive). I went to Jefferson School at 25th and Waverly. We moved in 1959 to StL County, both my Mom & Dad had been commuting to WEllston & Overland from E. Stl for several years, Did anyone go to Jefferson School in the 50's? Learned to swim at the pool in Jones Park. Dan Simpson

Terri		13-May-2010 00:37
I was born at Christian Welfare Hospital in 1960. My family lived on 43rd st. We moved away in 1968,but my great aunt lived there until 1991 and I visited her often. Everyone called her Miss Mabel. Her and her husband has since passed. I have good memories of E.St. Louis, but I wouldn't go back.

Kennedy		05-May-2010 20:11
RMc I grow up on 16th Russell I new you Grandparents very wells 3doors down. I am Vyvyan kennedy baby daughter and growing up in a place like East St Louis made me the woman I am today Strong Black & Proud. PS Tell Ava Black and Mickey hello

Nicole		04-May-2010 07:27
I am a student in Oregon. I am getting my degree in Sociology and a double major in political science. My hope is that with my degree I will be able to go and bat for towns like this and help to affect change. I recently did a case study of East St. L. and when it was over I wanted to get in my car and adopt every impovershed child from St Louis. The irony is when I looked at my husband and said so he said- do it. "Find a family who cannot take care of their children who is willing to let us raise them. You find a fmaily that says yes to that, and we will take the children in." I doubt any mother would willingly give up her child to us, or that anyone would take this seriously, but I am am going to post this anyway. I would be willing to take in impovershed children and raise them- insuring that they are loved and wanted and above all else have a chance at a future with a college education. I would do this with nothing but love in my heart because the living conditions we studied made me weep for all mothers who are trapped in a racist America that sits on these problems. Tucks them away and refuses to address the crisis. How could this happen in the all mighty America? How can we spend trillions on Iraq, Iran, Afgahn. and not take care of the children and families in our own country. I am deeply saddened by the state of St. Louis and please if I can help even one child... then bless that child and bring them to me. nicolemcclellandolivera@yahoo.com

Guest		03-May-2010 21:21
my name is linda nelson, again i lived on north 62 street, across street fron grand morris park, born 1949 went clark jr high, anyone out there from 62 street back then,

creasie1		03-May-2010 03:39
I to am from the E. my name is Maurice dixon and we like many others moved away but I used to come back for the summers and I have great memories of the boogie I remember we used to live off 39th and state right up the street from the dairy queen that everybody keeps talking about I also remember some of my old chilhood freinds like The Nichols they was our next door neighbors Mark Nochols, Holly,Francine,Caroll Fredrika. And how could forget the Westerlys, some of them were here Denver, Co. I love the place where I come from and it also has a lot and will always mean a lot to me even though it holds good and some painful family memories I can and I wont't ever forget where I come from and also If there any of you out there that remember the Dixon family I would love to here from you I still have cousins and family there,the Harris family over there off of College I would like to send my love out to the Kings, and also the Broadnax family and the Jordans across that bridge but as we get older our people are dying off and thats why this summer i'm coming back home to visit cause there is no place like home and can't no one relate like us folks that share this place that some of us still rep or still make this our home If by chance any one sees this and remembers the Dixons , Earsene, Lenora(Bonnie)(R.I.P.) and my brother Albert , we are doing great spread out all over the place but were good anywhoo I can be reached at mauricedixon211@yahoo.com and a shout out to the Blackburns

1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY!!!		03-May-2010 03:00
UPDATE!!! Last Sunday night in East St Louis there was ONE cop on duty!!!! DID YOU HEAR ME!!!! ONE COP ON DUTY!!!! There was a reported shooting at 10:00pm and that cop would not respond!! I don't blame him. It is reported that there has been over 100 grievances filed by the East St. Louis Police Department! GET THIS!!! The Mayor said he doesn't think safety was jeopardized Sunday. He said he's trying to solve the problem!!??? What problem!!!??? But NOOOOOOO! They spend over $3,000,000.00 on "CONSULTANTS"!!!!!!!!! To HELL with the safty of the people!!! MORE TO COME!!

1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY!!		27-Apr-2010 14:29
Well here we go again!! East St. Louis Schools spends FEDERAL MONEY........More than $3.1 million and rising, on "Consultants." There is less than 7500 students in the city!! FOR WHAT!?

Tony. Houston.		24-Apr-2010 15:49
To Linda Nelson, I too went to Morrison and remember Grand Morise Park. I lived off 51st and State Street. It was either 65 or66, when I went to Morrison. I went to Clark Jr High in 68 - 70. Your name sounds familiar.

Guest		24-Apr-2010 11:48
I am currently working in East St. Louis. I am use to working in impoverished areas but I have never seen a city that looks so unloved and abandoned. It really makes me sad to drive through town and see all the closed stores, neglected and broken down. I wish something would be done because something could be done.

Guest		20-Apr-2010 06:27
wow all these comments make me teary eyed. everyone from the city wants to contribute just as ms. says i too wish i culd get rich a rebuild the city i am a little younger graduated in 2004 from east side i go back often and everytime i go i get sad when i ride the metro into the city from the airport in missouri it hits me like a ton of bricks. where is the cities help thats not corrupt?i'm doing a speech on the city tommorrow about the history.i want people to know what the city is about other than whats written in the news.

MsTastyLove		16-Apr-2010 06:40
I graduated in 1997 from East Side. I left the city a few months afterwards and moved to Cleveland, OH, then back again. I am now living in Manhattan, KS, doing really well for myself. I love East St. Louis. Why? Because it made me who I am today. I never saw someone get shot up, I was never involved in a robbery. I worked hard starting at 16 years old and have been doing so ever since then. I am completing a degree in Social Work and Psychology in hopes of moving back to East St. Louis to rebuild it. I don't have any kids, so no "baby daddies" as some would put it. I have a fiance that's from St. Louis, MO. All of these pictures are very familiar to me. Especially the Red Chop Suey resturant...making my mouth water right now...shrimp St. Pauls and fried rice that's actually brown and not white or orange (Cleveland) Everytime I come to town I go shopping on 25th street, drive past where I grew up, N 43rd. But I get really really depressed because the city seems hopeless. One time I visited and was stopped at a red light on State street...why did this girl in a dark blue van roll down her window, stuck her a** out and started shaking it, out the window? WHAT THE HELL?!! WOW!! I read the news from bnd.com. Hopefully, the Monitor will get a site. I wish I could get rich and fix up East St. Louis myself. No Politicians involved. Just buy property and rebuild the people and the buildings. They just need to get bull dozers and start knocking old buildings and houses down. My grandmother owns land there...wants to give it to me but I don't know where to start with it...don't know if its tied up in taxes or not...she is now 69 years old and the taxes shouldn't be that high...if someone has any good advice please post. Does anybody remember the Fox grocery store off of state across the street from East Side? National Grocery Store on Caseyville Ave? Parties in the park off of Bond...can't remember the name of it. Ms. Louella Hawkins...keep it real. My favorite teacher from East Side High. My inspiration...

1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY!!!!		09-Apr-2010 04:43
Another Great East St. louis Citizen!!! GOD PLEASE SAVE EAST ST LOUIS!!!!!!!!!!!! Feds arrest former East St. Louis councilman Michael Collins charging him with income tax evasion and voter fraud. Collins was charged with three counts of tax evasion for 2003, 2004 and 2005. The indictment says Collins submitted unfiled tax returns to Vantage Credit Union as part of a loan application to buy a 2005 Cadillac Escalade. Collins was a candidate for the position of precinct committeeman for Precinct 26 in East St. Louis. The indictment says that Collins used the East St. Louis address when he voted for the president of the United States of America. (I wonder who he voted for president??????????????????????) Collins used the Loisel address in East St. Louis to run for precinct committeeman in Precinct 23. Collins voted in the general election, using the East St. Louis address, to vote for a candidate in the races for U.S. senator and U.S. representative in the 12th Congressional district. The government contends that Collins lived at the Swansea address in both instances.

Guest		08-Apr-2010 16:11
You are right about not being able to go to the bathroom in Clark without being jumped. I learned fast that if you fought back they didn't mess with you as much. When several of them tried to jump me in the bathroom I use to stand against the wall where they couldn't get behind me and then pop the first one that came after me. I was constantly getting kicked out of Clsrk because I would always fight back. In time I earned their respect. I might get my ass whipped a time or two but one or two went down with me ! Most of the other white kids would run out of the bathroom and leave you behind. I grew up fighting as a boy in East.St. Louis. You had to or get the hell beat out of you.

Tony Houston		06-Apr-2010 16:34
To Guest, Yes, I am the same Tony Houston that was once married to Debbie Harrison. I went to Morrison as well, and lived on 52nd and State St.

James W Morris		06-Apr-2010 00:04
Guest I to was born in Christian Welfare Hospital in East St. Louis, Illinois on 7/15/51. I spent my first years of life on 15th and St Claire and went to Longfellow elementary. I went to Clark Junior High and East St Louis High School where I graduated in January of 1970 we were the last mid-term class. I was a junior when Martin Luther King was killed, East Side was closed for three days due to rioting that was the beginning of the end. We moved to 731 North 83rd St when I was in 5th grade. I went to Edgmont elementay until graduating to Clark Junior High. I have never been to a high school class reunion. I'm not sure If we ever had one or my class mates could not find me I tell people all my classmates are died or in prison. I am 58 years old and when I tell people where I was born they don't beleive me. Growing up was not easy, you could not go to the bathroom in junior high because you would get jumped and beat on, so you faught back or ran. High school was not as bad, being on the football team you got respect from everyone. The first day after Martin Luther King was killed all my friends would follow me in school thinking I could keep them safe, Hell I was a scared a they. Life in East St Louis was not all that good.

1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY!!		03-Apr-2010 23:56
By my calculations..... At the current pace of murders, attrition of the elderly and NO POPULATON GROWTH. THE POPULATON OF MY HOME TOWN WILL BE around ZERO in 18 years!!!!! Then maybe the relatives of the MUCH, MUCH former EAST ST LOUIS RESIDENTS who own land and who are currently buying land will start BUILDING THE NEW OF CITY Of EAST ST LOUIS ....AND WE WILL ONCE AGAIN SEE THE ALL AMERICAN CITY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!! GOAL...2030!! I thank GOD that my relatives and friends who have passed away did not see what Happened to their city. They always said back in 1971 that ESL would come back....It is so much worse than they could ever imagined. They would have ALL dropped DEAD with a massive heart attack if they were alive today!!!! It breaks my heart that I can't go back to my home town without armed security guard!!!!

Terrance		02-Apr-2010 23:56
*** EAST ST. LOUIS MAYOR SHOT DEAD *** Two men were in custody and being questioned after Washington Park Mayor John Thornton was shot and died early Thursday, police said. Thornton was shot three times in the chest at close range at 5:47 a.m. Thursday, St. Clair County Coroner Rick Stone said. He died at 6:07 a.m. at Kenneth Hall Hospital in East St. Louis. He was 52. Read More: bnd.com/2010/04/02/1199386/charges-yet-to-be-filed-shooter.html

Guest		02-Apr-2010 23:38
Hi! I grew up in East St. Louis and went to Morrison grade school, Clark Jr. High, and my sophmore year at East Side. I loved every minute of it!!! I lived on 53rd Street. Is the Tony Houston that posts on this sight the same Tony that married Debbie Harrison?

1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY!!!		01-Apr-2010 19:00
DEATH IN EAST ST LOUIS!!! PART TWO In the Premiere Suburb of EAST ST LOUIS, WASHINGTON PARK ILLINOIS..... The Mayor John Thornton was shot and KILLED early Thursday by another THUG! This happen at the EPA Center of MURDER @ 4700 Casyeville Avenue. Forget about sending the National Guard to our borders, its time to send them to EAST ST LOUIS to protect the innocent people!!!

1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY		01-Apr-2010 04:24
DEATH IN EAST SAINT LOUIS ILLINOIS 62201! Last Sunday around 3:00 am, a man was shot and KILLED at THE CLUB CASINO (By the way there is no actual casino there!) formerly THE ROBERT HALL CLOTHING STORE, 6800 State Street East St. Louis. The bouncers told the man's cousin "get him out of here" and they will call an ambulance. The ambulance never arrived. His cousin then had to drive him to Memorial Hospital in Belleville where he was pronounced DEAD ON ARRIVAL! The CLUB CASINO stayed opened till 5 AM! How many people have to be KILLED there before they would c l o s e the business immediately till they would find out what happened??!! At another club in ESL a 41 year old man was shot, they expect him to survive. Also in Sauget Illinois a young man was SHOT & KILLED! In other ESL news it has been reported that over $2 MILLION DOLLARS has been spent for "consultants" by The ESL School District 189 in the last 6 years!!!! WHAT??!! The only hope for my home town, is the next ice age to bring down a glacier like the one that came through 60,000 years ago and grind this city down to bedrock and then when it thaws by "GLOBAL WARMING" Maybe, just maybe ESL might came back to the way we were!! AND TO JIMJIM: You right jimjim, it has nothing to do with minorities. The Liberal Democrats may have been corrupt, but the reason ESL went down was because of the CRIME! PERIOD! The smart people, ALL COLORS moved because of the threats of Gangs, Drugs and Death! YES!! THEY WERE AFRAID FOR THEIR LIVES!! If you think the city is so great now why don't you start a business and lived there! AND LET ME KNOW HOW THAT HOPE AND CHANGE IS WORKING FOR YOU!!

jimjim		31-Mar-2010 18:37
Much speculation has been made both on this board and elsewhere about Jimmy Conners. Was he from East St. Louis and if so, why hide it? Well, what is not known by most people is that Conners' grandfather was a mayor of East Boogie and Jimmy's mom was, well let's just say a bit controlling while she acted as his information agent. Jimmy grew up on Lake Drive in East St. Louis and attended Assumption High School. His parents moved to Belleville after he was on the road of his professional tennis career. His mother was most likely afraid to have the skeletons of Jimmy's grandfather term as mayor be brought out into the light of day and there you have it. As I stated here before, the reason for the decline of East St. Louis has nothing to do with minorities and everything to do with corrupt white politicians, who bled the city dry and then bought land in the burbs and made even more money scaring people to move away from the city in droves.

Guest		30-Mar-2010 23:08
Is anyone out there that attended Lansdowne Baptist Church at 39th & Waveryl Ave????

jim l		29-Mar-2010 11:08
i grew up at 620 rear trendleyin 1940s wonderfull place went to franlen school does any one out there REMEMBER

All over the town!		29-Mar-2010 08:10
Who remembers Beary's at 23rd and StateStreet?

Sue		29-Mar-2010 00:31
Hi, I was born at St. Mary's Hospital in 1956 and lived in Edgemont until 1964 when my parents moved to Belleville. I have great memeories of East St. Louis. I lived on Carol Drive and went to St. Phillip. But, wow has it changed. I would love to visit but am afraid of getting my pale butt shot.

Linda (Jines) Whiteside		28-Mar-2010 20:18
East St. Louis was a terrific place to live and grown up in the 50s and 60s. I remember the great gathering places: Jones' pool at night, Hannigan's, A & W, Parson's Field, the first McDonald's (near St. Mary's), and on and on. Just because it is no longer the All American City doesn't negate the fact that it was when I was going up. Linda (Jines) Whiteside

RMc		28-Mar-2010 06:07
While messing around one tonight I came across this site and read alot of the comments regarding E.St.Louis, Il. First I'll say I was actually born in Chicago in 1960 (Cook County Hosp.)but my dad who was raised in the Boogie got promotion on his job (Illinois Central & Gulf Railroad) so he moved our family to back home (e.st.louis). The majority of his side of our family lived there. This was a culture shock to me at 12 years old. We live at 1439 N. 43rd St. in the Washington Park area and yes there were still whites living there in 1972, but they soon all moved away except for the nice old couple across the street from us The Casens. An elderly couple who used to look after my brother and me after school sometime until one of our parents came home. We really didn't need watching but they liked doing crafts and Mrs. Casens loved having baked cookies and stuff waithing for us after school. This was a special time in my memory because there home screamed "old school" I mean they gave gifts for "every holiday" and adored our Parents. They were my first customers for my grass cutting business in the summers. I went to Lansdowne Jr. High then to Lincoln. I would have normally to East Side but I ran track and wanted to follow my coach to Lincoln for him. People used to call him "Bo-Dick" but his name was Coach Marshall. The biggest Man I had ever met up to that time. He was like a legend in E.St.Louis. I remember as a kid going to the "Colony Theater" to see karate movies. Shopping at Union Jack. Listening to WESL radio with "Dr. Jockenstein" and also listening to the "Apology Line" to see which people we knew would call in and put their business on the air. LOL. We used to fish for crawdads in Jones Park. Shoot ball in the Rooselvelt Homes. Shop for groceries at the National supermarket on Caseyville Road. We used jump the freight trains and ride to the carnival every summer when it came. We even road our bikes to the Drive-in on State St. (we snuck in of course). Yes alot of stuff happened town but remember I came from the south side of Chicago during the birth of the GD's, Vice Lords and Blackstone Rangers so I was used to stuff going on. I knew you had to watch out for yourself and most of all mind your on business. Oh yeah I loved going to the Mary Brown Center out in the "Southend" in Lincoln Park. We used to party hard there in 76,77,78. I attended Pilgrim Temple Church with my Dad and Grandmother. My Mom and younger Brother attended Mt Zion on Bond Ave. Rev. Rouse was their Pastor. Pastor Williamson was our first Pastor then it was Rev. Craig. Anybody remember parting at St. Joseph's on Saturday night. Lil Boogie used to DJ. Man I could go on forever so I'll write more another day. Anyone remember Leon, Wilbert and Bobby McClure? Wilbert is my Dad and Leon and Bobby are my uncles (deceased) My Grandparents were Jimmy and Carrie Black. They lived on 16th Russell across from Lucas school. I live in Waukegan, Il now and I run into a couple of people I actually grew up with. I left in 1978 to run track at Tennesee State University with Sparky Fields and Alfredrick Joyner. I left for the Air Force but they kept running. Al even got a Gold medal in the Olympics. I ran track while in the Air Force. I learned some very valuble lessons while growing up in East St. Louis that have carried me a long way in life. Some of the tough lessons save my life. All through history cities vanish but live on in the hearts and memories of those who loved them. "Snoot" anyone. LOL P.S. Can anyone tell me if they recognize me or my brother? I left the names out on purpose. Go Lincoln Tigers 4ever....

Guest		27-Mar-2010 03:18
I happened upon this blog this evening for the first time. I find the first posts quite interesting and the later posts seem to 'romanticize' the city. Let's face it - it might have been once a great All American City but it hasn't been great in many, many years. I was born, raised, graduated from ESL high - it was a war zone in the late 60's and early 70's. Been back a few times in the past 40 years. It is horrendous. I have no doubt that the crooked white politics were the roots of the city' demise. Do want to mention however, there is a great book that is about the race riots of the early 1900's in ESL -- my mother told me her grandfather sheltered black people under his house. I envy the people who have wonderful memories of life during the 30's and 40's. All I remember is hatred.

Guest		25-Mar-2010 15:47
I thank God for the education the city gave me growing up. Lots of people on here have said good things about the city and thats great. But if East St. Louis is to be great city again, CHANGE must start with the PEOPLE in it. East St. Louis lacks diversity which is a negaitive in my book. If we all be honest most cities that are pleasant are diversified. You have different races, values, customs, and religions. Even though different cities face obstacles at times, these qualities give birth to new ideas that can bring a brighter future to any city. I'm glad I stayed in East St. Louis during the 60s but I'm even more happy that I decided to moved away from there.

linda		24-Mar-2010 20:18
i also was born in christian welfare hosp, as was my first child, i also worked there as a young person, back then i loved it there, it was a great place and i remember when the first black family moved into our neighborhood, it was a learning time for me they were very nice but my parents didnt like it and moved out, i dont really know what to say about that time it was a hard time for all everyone trying to find their way, it left a lasting impression on me as a child.

Guest		24-Mar-2010 19:43
my name is linda nelson, i grew up on 210 n 62 street east saint louis,il went morrison, and then to clark jr high, spent much time at grand morrison park across street from my child hood home. i loved it there talk about a great neighborhood, went to the a&p on state street, myself and friends had a blast playing games and running around the hood, i have so many great memories i cant even list them all in such a shot space,when my family moved out we didnt go far but far enough,i use to sneak back when i could, but things changed fast after that and soon i had to stay away, it is heart breaking to know that my childhood places cant even be revisited excepy in my mind. i am from a long time family that grew up and lived in east saint louis,il for many years, my uncle was fire chief of midway fire dept and my dad was volunteer always , we spent many a time at firemen picnics and carnivals and bar b qs. parades at easter, 4 of july parade i rode on fire trucks many times and threw out candy, it was so much fun .went crawdad fishing at the park, watched beavers build their dam in the lake by the restaraunt. all gone now.

Tony. Houston.		24-Mar-2010 10:53
All who were born and raised in E.St. Louis have both fond and not so fond memories. But we wouldn't change them if we could.

Guest		22-Mar-2010 17:55
Hey does anyone out there remember any of these people from the late 50's? Rocky Fowler,Eddie Lancarivic, Linda Dixon, Ruth Johnson, Lee Jo, Fred & Fern Louvier, Jimmy Swift, Sonny Reed. Also a judge by the name of Barney Johnson or Parnell? Just wondering>

Tynnetta		22-Mar-2010 04:29
People,ESL has it's bad parts like any other place,I was born and raised there,and love everything about my childhood,and teen year's.I would most likely still be liveing there if it wasn't for my first child health,he was born blind so I wanted the best school for him.From birth to age 10 I lived on 39 walnut street,then from 10 to 20 I lived on N39 street.My Dad &Uncle had a store on state street,around 1967-1970 called Freedie & Ben.

1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY		19-Mar-2010 07:17
TO: Debbie Richmond: My mother was also born at Christian Welfare Hospital in 1939. I was born at the same hospital in 1955, several months pre-mature. My mother told me if it was not for the new incubators I would have died. In 1970 my grandfather was seriously injured in an automobile accident and rushed to Memorial Hospital in Belleville. When it was time for rehabilitation he was sent to Christian Welfare. Debbie this hospital was state of the art in its time! It is so sad and a disgrace to see that it is now being torn down.

carol richmond		19-Mar-2010 01:39
i was born at christian welfare hospital in 1939. does anyone know if that was a real welfare hospital for poor people? or just called that and at the time it didn't have the same connotation. thanks.

Debbie		17-Mar-2010 07:34
I loved reading all the memories of ESL. I was born there at Christian Welfare in 1957. Does anyone remember St. Paul's Methodist Church at 42nd and Caseyville Ave.? I would love to see some pictures or find out where everyone went after it was moved to Fairview Heights,(where it disappeared completely). I loved Jone's Park. My grandpa took me there to the playground. I remember watching the ballgames and singing "Take me out to the ball game",lol, at Jone's Park, as a very small child. I also remember the 5 and dime at Caseyville Ave, and 46th. (I think) and the bakery (Krueta's?) on Caseyville Ave. where my dad would get pastries. My Uncle knew many of the musicians in ESL. Good Times. It was a good city, and it will be great again, someday.

1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY		16-Mar-2010 05:05
TO RUSH: If the whole Obama stimulus package went to East St. Louis tomorrow, there wouldn't be one dime left in a week!!!! Please!! Wake up! All the state and Federal money that has gone in that city in the last 40 years hasn't done a damn bit of good! In fact it is worse than ever!!!

RUSH		15-Mar-2010 23:57
I grow up in East St. Louis Illinois in the 50's and 60's and it was a great place to live at the time. My family moved to Denver in 1965. The problem with EST. is that no one wants to help the city. Why don't all the people that moved away make some kind of donation to the city and create jobs instead of alway putting the city down. RUSH

Gene		12-Mar-2010 15:21
I went to Lansdowne and graduated E Side High in 62. I worked for ALCOA [nee Aluminum Ore Co.] until it closed down in 1977 and I transferred to Pittsburgh. I remember Hannigans and Prices but my 'gang' hung out at A&W root beer on 89th st. I remember the Flyers were champs in football and track but sucked at basketball.. tks to coach PICK DEHNER. Luckily I dated a girl from Collinsville whose BB team was the mighty KAHOKS. WWhen I was a soph at E. Side I was barely 5ft tall and I would see now Dr. Harry Edwards [6'8"]at the cafeteria line hustling pennies to buy milk. I met my future wife at Union Clo co. a STA grad of 1965. I remember when the arch was built. E St Louis was a great place to live because we were so close to the attractions [the MUNY, Cardinals, ZOO] in St Louis.

barbp		11-Mar-2010 21:37
Hi I was raised in ESL and would like to know if anyone remenbers the Homestead Tavern on 6 or 7Th st from the 1950

Barbara		11-Mar-2010 19:57
Hi I grew up in E.St. Louis in the late 1940's and 1950's You could go anywhere in the town at any time of day or night. We walked all over town late and night and never had any trouble. Was a good place to live at that time. Barbara

Jesse Thorton Sr.		09-Mar-2010 07:49
Jesse Thorton (born-raised-proud) My memories of being raised in ESTL; I was raised by my Grandmother (Beatrice Thorton), she is the strongest woman to date that I have known. She raised me to be strong, independant, respectful, and live life with an open mind-amongst other life promising attributes. Yes, I saw alot of crime, all types of crimes. Yes, my people there are lost! I still love my city and I will represent my city to the fullest! Will I raise my family there? It is not likely because crime there will find you!

Boogie		09-Mar-2010 00:35
Wake up people. East St. Louis will NEVER be grand. It is possible for ESTL to be a mediocre community again and that would be a big turn around for the Boogie but it will never be grand or anything resembling grand. The best hope for ESTL is for investment to happen along the river with hotels that face St. Louis. My understanding is that CSX owns that land so the likely of this happening is slim. Illinois doesn't invest in downstate, so East St. Louis' only hope is to generate income from sin. Casinos, strip joints, adult bookstores & massage parlors... game on!

Frances Burton		08-Mar-2010 20:17
Hi Guest, It really is strange how people think if you grew up in the north you don't encounter racism, but to the contrary, I first experienced a 'brush with racism' on a field trip in the fifth grade in Chicago. I still have family there in ESL, Belleville, Collinsville, Madison and some of the surrounding areas and try to travel back at least twice a year. My mom, sister and I left in '78 and moved to Georgia. Of course a lot of the plants were closing down, jobs were scarce and that coupled with family problems, my mom thought it best to leave there. I can truly say I enjoyed growing up in ESL and wouldn't trade the experience. As in many places, communities, while you're there it doesn't seem that bad but when you venture out to new places you look back and think wow! that places was really, really bad. Then you have to think well it's not actually E. Boogie that's bad the people make up the city; and believe me you when it was getting real rough the demographics and populace changed drastically. Now you have some people that grew up in the city that are afraid to go there, so don't think because your white it's bad for you. In regards to your relatives, I believe racism is a hatred born from fear; ignorance isn't always bliss but I do believe 'knowledge is power'. The better you know something or someone the more your understanding increases and there won't be a fear in the sense that just because a person is not in the same race you should keep your distance or dislike them. I hope you do at some point get a chance to go there, maybe take some photos, etc. ESL can once again be the grand city it was even before I was born, but there will have to be a change in the mindset of those who are there and in the surrounding communities: black and white! For me the bottom line is no matter where I go, East St. Louis, IL will always, always be 'home'. Frances Burton

1959 ALL AMERICAN CITY		08-Mar-2010 19:24
To Guest 03/08/10 5:16. I am planning a trip to East St Louis in April/2010 to finish taking about 500 more pictures. I am doing a documentary and writing a book about East St. Louis. My best friend will be doing the driving while I take the pictures. We know ESL like the back of our my hands. We will only travel thru the city between 9AM and noon. This is because most of the Wineo's,degenerates,thugs,militants and racist are still passed out! You are welcome to ride along with us. I must caution you though, it is still extremely dangerous! But, you will be amazed!!

Pam		08-Mar-2010 18:43
Hi all, I am so glad i found this site, i was born at St mary's hospital in E.ST Louis in 1960. I grew up in Washington Park. I worked at Cleve's Grill in 1975-1979. I just wanted to say hello to all. E St Louis was a very pretty place.

Guest		08-Mar-2010 05:16
Hello everyone, I never lived in ESL (was raised in Collinsville) but my mother's family was from ESL. She grew up on Bunkum Road, went to Alta Sita school when she lived with her grandmother for awhile. She went to Collinsville High but two of my uncles went to ESL High (graduated in the early '40s I think so that would have been the original school, not the present one). One of my mom's aunts lived in Washington Park well into the '70s. My mom talks about going to the Majestic theater as a child and how nice it was (I sure hope it won't be torn down). I remember family members talking about what a great town ESL was back in the day, the '30s, '40s, 50's and even the early '60s but we moved to Florida in '68 and by then it was in serious decline. My father worked at Swifts in National City and the jobs were leaving the area. I'm fascinated with what remains of the fine architecture and I'm sorry I couldn't have seen the city when it was really grand. In case anyone's interested, my family is white and the whole racial divide thing has always fascinated me because until the age of twelve I never had any interaction with black or biracial people but living, going to school and working in Florida was quite different culturally. To this day my relatives who live in the areas around ESL don't understand my comfort with mixing with people of all races---they have no black friends and avoid going to ESL. There is still racial separation here but nothing like there----IMO segregation is alive and well in Southern Illinois! I would love to go to ESL sometime and see first-hand what it looks like but I doubt I could get anyone to show me around. I'd love to see more photos of the neighborhoods, some "then and now" photos would be really great.

1959 All American City		07-Mar-2010 08:48
My other grandmother said that when she was working in the late 30's for a taxi cab company in ESL, Wortman's gang would come in often with their "get away" cars to have the tires changed after a "Big Job". Several years later when she was working for Dr. Owen Eiesle on Caseyville Avenue, some of Wortman's men came in one afternoon with a buddy who had been shot. The Dr. removed the bullet and they were on their way! She also said that Al Capone once tried to muscle in on the mob in ESL but was sent back to Chicago by the ESL gang! He never tried that again.

Helen		06-Mar-2010 18:04
When I was a Girl Scout living in Caseyville, my dad took me to Frank Wortman's huge house between Caseyville and Collinsville to sell cookies. He bought every box I had. I will never forget that. I was shaking in my boots as I walked up to the door!

Guest		06-Mar-2010 09:05
To guest who posted 3/3/10, i went to St Philips and Assumption too, what years did you go?

Guest		06-Mar-2010 00:08
Had a good memory come back to me today..while reaing the Belleville Paper today, a former ESL resident passed away....Mrs. Beyersdorfer....had a WONDERFUL bakery on Caseyville Ave for years right next to Hawthorne School...I remember getting a cherry tart for 5 cents

1959 All American City		05-Mar-2010 03:21
My grandmother ran the Pladium Restaurant in East St Louis during the 30's. She said this well dress gentleman would come in every week on a Friday night and buy a cup of coffee. He would leave a dime for the coffee and a five dollar bill and then would go without saying a word. His name was Buster Wortman.

Guest		04-Mar-2010 18:22
My great Uncle was the gun smith in Belleville. The only time I came to visit him was in the early 80's. We drove thru East St. Louis. I love reading the comments about the city.

Guest		03-Mar-2010 15:58
I grew up in the Bluffs above East St. Louis and went to school there St. Philip and Assumption. Tennis star Jimmy Conners lived there and went to school there until his softmore year of high school. In the day when asked he always replied Belleville as his boyhood home......not a day in his life. I dond't understand that mentality. I am proud to have lived there and could care less what people think.

estl		03-Mar-2010 12:46
I used to visit my grandma Ethel Freiberg when I was young in the 60's and 70 's who owned a Cleaners on State St Just down the edgemount hill on the right hand side and her house was located behind the cleaners and I'm looking for a lady name Rosy don't remember last name she used to that care of my grandma and her house and watch us during the summer on your visits and have not see her since I left for the military in 1983 and them at my grandma funeral in 1994. She always showed us the the best of what east st louis had to offer and was the best time of my life in those hot summer days in estl. please contact me at estl90@yahoo.com

All over the town!		27-Feb-2010 09:28
It is obvious that the contributors to this site's discussion are writing about two different cities which occupied the same geographical space. All contributors have written about that real estate just across the Mississippi River from downtown St. Louis, but have described the area in such different terms that it seems impossible to reconcile the contrasting views expressed by people who claim to love the city in which he or she was raised! For example, I was born near the Sunken Gardens, then lived at 10th and Tudor, then spent much of my life in Alta Sita, then lived in succession on N. 24th, N. 30th, N. 32nd and N. 89th Streets. I never lived in, nor had I heard of, "East Boogie"! I remember Ray Keeley's Tavern at 29th and Bond; another contributor to this site remembered Blackmon's Tavern at that same site. I hold in my heart my memories of East St. Louis as fondly as does the poster who speaks of "East Boogie" and Blackmon's Tavern; it's just that we remember different cities on the same piece of land! Things change, and every city in the United States has undergone change since the time I was born in the thirties, some for better and some for worse. Our "cities", claimed by residents or former residents of different ages and races, has suffered more decline than almost any other city in the country for so long a time, but the posts on this site DO speak to a great place in which to grow up regardless of economic circumstance, and that tells me that it wasn't the location of the "cities", or the buildins and infrastructure, but it was the people of East St. Louis and the people of East Boogie that mad us remember it so fondly!

Guest		26-Feb-2010 00:40
Dr. Scrivner delivered two of my sons but his office was in Belleville then, I didin't know he worked in ESL

1959 All American City		26-Feb-2010 00:06
I agree with most people who say they are proud they are from ESL. With one exception. The time period from 1930 through 1966 my family and I were proud. The remaining time we lived there, from 1967 through 1974 was HORRIBLE!! The few remaining companies started to leave because of serious crime and HATE for the white man. Between 1967 through 1974 both sets of my grandparents where Robbed at gun point! My sister was RAPED! My next door neighbor and his son were MURDERED in 1972! Our good friend Mr. Price who owned Prices Drive-Inn was MURDERED for $68 at his liqure store in 1971! YES! I always make sure when people ask me where I am from I tell them EAST ST LOUIS ILLINOIS!! I have lived all over the country and every person I talk to know of East St. Louis. But they don't have a clue about its glorius past! I tell them! The sad thing is after my generation dies no one will know of ESL's great past! Because no one who lives there now could give a DAMN!! What a shame.

GUEST		25-Feb-2010 20:17
East St. Louis was a great town to grow up in the 50's and early 60's. My grandfather built the Murphy Building. Dr Scrivner delivered me and all 4 of my kids even tho we moved to St Louis. He was a great Dr. Got to talk to him at a Fund Raiser at the Old St. Mary's many years ago. I told his wife that his patients thought he was a GOD. HE MADE A HOUSE CALL WHEN I WAS PREGNANT WITH MY SECOND CHILD. We lived on Bunkum Road and he came to the house 2 times.

scott		25-Feb-2010 04:28
Picture #6 is the old Union Bank across from the old McDonalds.

rickell		24-Feb-2010 19:06
my name is rickell tolise n im from the home of the flyers the home of the licoln tigers i love my home town no matter how grimey or bad some of the neighborhoods maybe i grew up in charlie park the fireworks n the hole grab my knowledge from brown elementary nelly curtis miller academy n east side high i can tell you exactly where most of the pictures take place i love east boogey but i must say its time 4 a change there n the only way to see one is if we all work together to progress one

bmiller2		24-Feb-2010 18:53
My daughter was born in Christain Welfare Hospital. She always thought that it was actually a welfare hospital. Does anyone have any pictures from back when it looked good? She was born May 20, 1963. Dr. Scrivener delivered her. Does anyone remember him?

Guest		23-Feb-2010 00:07
could you please tell me what the picture is of number 6....second row, second pic..it looks familiar to me but I'm not sure...thank you

Hazel Liddell		20-Feb-2010 05:22
I was raised in ESL and I wouldn't trade the good times I had there for anything. Sure the city has it's share of problems, but that's a whole other issue. I went to Garrison, Webster and graduated from St Teresa in 1971. The rice, snoots were to die for. I go "home" as often as possible. My family reunion is there every year. Did any of you play softball for Mr Cleveland Chandler? I played 1st base and would love to get in contact with anyone that did play. We were the "shitz". I remember going to the Southend center to see The Young Disciples. I know that being from ESL and experiencing my youth there was the catalyst for my success in life. I thank God for good those times. This is Hazel Liddell-Johnson (maceedrew@aol.com)

Angela		20-Feb-2010 03:32
To brendadavis I am so sorry about your mom, my mother passed 5 years ago and never helped me find my people in east st louis, I moved from the gompers in 1970, I am looking for my fathers people, my grandmother was on the police force in st louis I lost contact with her when I was about 11-12years old. her name is A. Lewis and the few times I did get to visit her she took me to church at pilgrams rest church at 5000 bond, I am now 46 years old, and I dont know if Ihave other brothers or sisters out there someplace, to tony my aunt hazel liddell played softball as well as did my cousins the cullys, does anyone know any McNesses??????? please let me know at KSfox42@yahoo.com

TexanTimm		20-Feb-2010 03:17
When did the areas around Landsdowne, Washington Park, and Rosemont start getting bad? I lived near Loisel Village when we moved to Texas in about 1970. My grandparents lived near Landsdowne and St. Martin's respectively. I don't remember those areas as being bad, but I was only 12.

Linda Sanders Burton		19-Feb-2010 22:36
I lived in East St louis from 1949 to 1981 - Went to Webster school, Rock, Clark and graduated from East Side in 1967. Grew up on 12th and Cleveland. As a child growing up in the fifties, I can remember how great East St Louis used to be before "white flight". We had no problem with the white's fleeing but did not realize they were taking all the jobs with them. I can remember moving from "Goose Hill" to 11th & Gaty - whites had previously owned these homes and immediately moved out to the suburbs when we started moving in. Of course we followed them so they all moved to Bellville and other cities.When I go back to visit East St Louis I am saddened by what the city has become, but I know she will come back. I am told that white developers are buying all the land once owned by blacks for peanuts and just waiting. Soon there will be high rises, expensive condos and million dollar homes in the inner city. That is when East St Louis will thrive again. I am proud of being from East St louis and always correct people when they say St. Louis. I now reside in Houston, Texas and have met several of my "homeboys and girls from East St. Louis". We are all successful and lead great lives. We are proud of the lessons learned in East St Louis.

Tony Houston		19-Feb-2010 11:53
I remember going iceskating at Joneses Park in the winter and going swimming at the pool in the summer, as well as playing fast pitch softball there too. We had a lot of fun as kids growing up in E. St. Louis.

Guest		19-Feb-2010 01:39
Wow, that's the area where I grew up! Again, if anyone has memories of Lansdowne Baptist Church, please share them with me. I would love to hear about it. That was my church for a long time. Does anyone remember the easter play? My dad was Pilate!!

Guest		19-Feb-2010 00:31
I lived on 45th street, and went to Hawthorne elementary, lansdowne and east side. WE always went ice skating at Jones Park. I have such warm wonderful memories that time.. Does anybody remember the great Fish fry"s a t Holy Angels???

TONY HOUSTON		18-Feb-2010 18:30
i have many fond memories as well as not so fond memories of growing up in E.St. Louis. I wouldn't trade a one of them. We were a unique people. Especially in Rosemont and Washington Park. We stuck together when other gangs of guy's came into our neighborhood. I remember several neighborhood gangfights. We didn't use guns or knives, we used our fists and an occasional bottle or club. No one ever died from these fights. We were different from Collinsville, Belleville, Edwardsville .... We were tougher. Many of us grew up without a Father, poor but happy. I will always be proud of being born and raised in EAST. ST. LOUIS.

Guest		18-Feb-2010 13:38
Rick, Jimmy Sams lived right on the corner as I recall. We used to play football in his back yard. I also new the Mitchells. Ricky and Kathy and Mickey.

1959 All American City		17-Feb-2010 23:44
WARNING! All of my fellow neighbors from Washington Park/East St Louis/Lansdowne area. Latest report is that 40th & Waverley Avenue is the epa Center for murders in the Nation. Please make sure that if you do visit the area( most of of it is gone) drive a Hummer and be well armed!!!

Rick		17-Feb-2010 20:07
I lived on Hollows from about 1958 to about 67 or 68. I had a good friend Jimmy Sams that lived around the corner and Micky Mitchel that owned Mitchel's market. I moved from there to 72nd Street and attended Harding, Edgemont, Clark and then King. Lots of good memories and a few bad ones too. My older brother Garry attended Landsdowne.

Susan		17-Feb-2010 01:04
My Aunt and Uncle, Ray and Katherine Poston owned and operated the Coachlight Tavern on Bond St. for many years. Does anyone have pics, memories, information about their tavern. They were wonderful, honest people with such beautiful smiles. Thanks for any help.

Guest		16-Feb-2010 13:43
Oh yeah, Cleves Grill. I would not change a thing about growing up in these neighborhoods. Honest, stand up people. Far from wealthy but proud. I dont get to see many old friends but I have them with me. Tell Gloria I said hi. I think she will remember me. It has been a pleasure stumbling on to this site and conversing with you. Ron Mifflin

Tony Houston		15-Feb-2010 21:47
Well, there was Cleve's Grill on Forrest Blvd, just off Kingshighway, and then there was Kingsway ( I think that was the name ) on Kingshighway just before you got to Forrest Blvd. Yes, Gloria is my little sister. My older brother Steve use to run with Dickie. I knew him pretty well too, though he was several years older than me. the kimbrells are my cousins. bonnie and I are the same age. She is 2 mos older than I am.

Guest		15-Feb-2010 18:22
To Tony Houston. Sonny, Dickie and Bruce are my cousins. Ricky, Bonnie and Becky Kimbrell were my good friends. Ricky Prices younger brother Darrell was one of my good buddies. I dated Janet Ridgeway. Froggy Clark? Are you related to Gloria Houston? I vaguely remember the Gay Inn. What was the name of the greasy spoon with the all night chili on the corner of Kingshighway and Forest Blvd. Across from Cress License. My brothers band played at Hudsons Roller Rink quite a bit. They also played in the Rec Hall in the Roosevelt Homes. To Rick. When did you live on Hallows?

BJ		12-Feb-2010 22:02
I too lived in E. St louis and back then it was a good place to live. We moved there around the 1950's until around 1968, if memory serves me right. We lived on 7th street close to the Polish hall or church. We were close to St. Clair ave. Our neighbors were mostly polish people. Does anyone know any of these people? Marlene & Evelyn Hess & they had a brother not sure of his name. Over on 8th or 9th street the Darnell's, Bomars, Cannons lived. I can't think of any of the other neighbors. I worked at Lees Grill and Bills grill on St. Clair ave. Later we hung out at Mavis tavern on Collinsville ave. Mavis was very close to Judge Parnell. Some of the people that hung out there were Glen & Jack Hardin, Joann Bell, Bill Hunter, Jack Elliott, Buddy Harstrite (mispelled I'm sure)Patsy Darnell, Betty Swift. There used to be a band that Duke Patey played in there. Later I worked out on Bunkum road at a restaurant,can't remember the name. Gee this brings back so many memories! Also knew Sonny Reed, Dick Bridges, Glenda Roach, Fern Lavere. We also hung out sometimes at 1123 State St. at a bar there. Anyone know any of these people or places? I feel so bad now for what has happened to E. St Louis. Shirley Whitten was shot & killed by a robber at Dairy Queen I think in the early 60's. Looking forward to touching base with anyone that knows any of these people, it has been so long!!

Auker		12-Feb-2010 16:51
I grew up in ESTL too. Lived on 73rd st, parents owned the Cars Cafe restaurant. East Side 1972. I remember all the places everynoe has mentioned - Shop City, all the Washington Park hangouts, Burger Chef on State Street, Henry's next to East Side, Coach Cameron, Turkey Day Football... Try this group on Facebook - East St. Louis Sr HS & Lansdowne & Clark JH Alumni

Rick		11-Feb-2010 16:26
I grew up on Hollows Ave, accross the street from the candy store and 3 doors down from Wilson School. I remember Jonnys tavern and the Straw Hat tavern. I learned to ride a bicycle in the school yard at Wilson.

Tony Houston		10-Feb-2010 20:05
I knew the Mifflins. Sonny, Dickie, and Bruce. I grew up hanging out in the Roosevelt Homes too. I am related to the Kimbrells, Terry, Jerry, Tommy, and I ran with Mike Clark, Ricky Price, Earl Ridgway, remember them ? I am a bit older than you, I was born in 1954. I remember all the places youa mentioned. I remember " Jimmy's Gay Inn " on Bunkum Rd by Pochecks I.G.A. remember that place ? I was young when it was open.

Guest		09-Feb-2010 21:01
I grew up in Rosemont around 49th and Bunkum. Born at St. Marys in 58. Attended Woodrow Wilson Elementary School then to Landsdowne Jr. High. Spent a lot of time hanging in the Roosevelt Homes. My grandparents lived right behind Artells Confectionary on 44th and Bunkum. Bunkum liquor was a hangout. Vaughns Service station. Pochecks Grocery Store. Wurth Dairy. Johnny and Bennys Tavern. Red Feather Inn. Cygans Restaurant. Kingsway Drive Inn, home of the original Pizza Burger. The Straw Hat. Oh yeah, we cant forget Art Mowes. Stephans Hardware Store. We had great times. Do you remember any Mifflins?

Mifflin		09-Feb-2010 17:59
Memories. I grew up in Rosemont on 49th and Bunkum Road. Later moved to Hallows ave. in the Park. Born at St. Marys in 58, attented Woodrow Wilson grade school and Landsdowne. It was a great place early on but became dangerous. Had relatives in Roosevelt Homes. Grandmother lived behind Artells Confectionary on 44th and Bunkum. Anybody remember the Mifflins

TexanTimm		06-Feb-2010 02:36
God's will is for everyone to have an abundant, productive life. Unfortunately, too many East Saint Louis residents choose to ignore this great fact and destroy eachother and cause many fine people to live in fear every day. I remember when the Landsdowne Towers were built in the sixties. Those apartment should still be in decent condition for their age. When we give people handouts and let them act like animals, things get destroyed. No gratitude, no respect, no hope for the young people...

tpnupe2		05-Feb-2010 20:08
I just want to thank all of you for your stories. I was just looking at old pictures of the crib and fell upon this which is great. My god I thank him for allowing to grow up in East St Louis I was born in Christian Welfare May 28, 1964 and it is still not torn down yet! God has a plan for the city and it is so rich with stories like these it is so strong when you go to another city they just seem so weak to me comming from home that is mentally weak. I pray that His will be done in the city for all to see His work!

All American City 1959		05-Feb-2010 16:29
While driving through my home town ESL, a thought came to me. I remember reading an article regarding a gentleman from Detroit who has come up with a brilliant idea. Start farming the city of Detroit. Detroit like ESL is becoming void of buildings, homes and people. Scheduled homes to be torn down in Detroit is 60,000 plus. 18,000 have already been torn down. Detroit's population has decreased by 1,000,000. The population of ESL has decreased by approximately 50,000. I believe the same concept could work for ESL! The Fed's need to come in and tear down the remaining homes and buildings that are condemned. My guess is around 10,000 plus. This is Mississippi River bottom land and it still has to be fertile. Also its cheap! Maybe this could be the answer to bring back my home town.

Guest		02-Feb-2010 16:20
I was born at CWH in January '74. I was sad to hear that not only had it been shut down for the past 20+ years, but that it was such an eyesore to ESL residents due to vandalism.

Tony		27-Jan-2010 16:15
I spent a couple of weeks in Christian Welfare hosp, after being hit by a car trying to cross State Street and 24th st. This was in 1961

All American City 1959		26-Jan-2010 18:34
Well another landmark in East St Louis is being put to rest. The demolition has started on Christian Welfare Hospital in ESL. This is after the thugs, thieves and vandals have stripped all the materials, metals and fixtures they could steal to get money from the building over the years. Rest in peace!

Brenda Davis		25-Jan-2010 23:58
My name is Brenda Davis. I was born in St. Louis, MO July 1968. My mother's name was Ora Lee (Smith) Tisdale. She was shot in the head 5 times by her husband James E. Tisdale. She died June 01, 1970 and was buried in Pine Bluff, AR. I'm told she had a best friend, maybe two, who lived in East St. Louis. I am trying to find anyone who may have known my mother during that time. I recently found out that her husband is not my father. If anyone out there knows anyone who may have known my mother, please email me at: brendadavis007@gmail.com Thank you and God bless.

Tony Houston		25-Jan-2010 11:55
Yes, I attended that Church. I got my first Bible from my Sunday School teacher there. It was in 1965. Tony. Houston.

Guest		25-Jan-2010 01:05
Is there anyone out there who attended Lansdowne Baptist Church at 39th & Waverly?? I have beautiful memories of that church and the people...is it still occupied as a church or something?

Guest		21-Jan-2010 17:18
John Gender....I too took elocution lessons from Betty Daugherty, with classes on 37th street. I loved your Preacher and the Bear.

GSU_Nickel		21-Jan-2010 06:38
Wow.. I guess this was my day to take a look at ESTL historically. (This is the 3rd ESTL websie I found today.) Born, raised and Well educated in ESTL by teachers and parents and neighbors that cared and would not be disrespected. I graduated from E.Side in 1974 and now live Los Angles. It�s sad to see that this city has not progressed, but it always was a city of corrupt politics, good times, and life in the past. As I read earlier comments reflecting on the good times, bad times, White Flight, Racism, and ideas of resurrecting of the city, it made me think of the mind set of those who have endured life in ESTL, whether they are black or white and now even Asian and Hispanic. What is the mindset of those who make this city home? There are extremely good hard working people in my home town and I still love this city, but most pictures or even when you drive through the city, it has the look and surroundings of a city that never left the 50�s or 60�s. So sad, but without business, manufacturing, viable retail opportunities, this city has become a true, welfare city. It is only an excepted mindset that could allow this to happen. Is there hope for such a situation? Yes, there is always hope. ESTL is still prime property surrounded by major highways, the riverfront and rail. All elements are there that were there when the city thrived in the 50�s, 60�s, and 70�s. No longer can E. ST. Louisan�s allow the corrupt politics of the past, (Mayor Alvin Fields) and no longer can you allow the uneducated to remain uneducated. This city has produced great people, Josephine Baker, Hank Bauer, Homer Bush, Miles Davis, Donald McHenry, Jackie Joyner-Kersey, and countless other in the past and current day. And with the Grace of God, it shall and will again thrive. But the people must change, dream, hope, work hard, and pray for a future that is God�s will and not the will of �The Boogie��

Elvira		15-Jan-2010 07:38
Born and raised in ESL. Love my home and love my people when I go home to visit. But I have actually cried when I drive around and see what has become of my childhood home. I still have hope that things will change one day. I have now resided in southern california since my mom moved us here in '75'. I've traveled the world. Some of my favorite places are Italy,France, Prauge,and Maui....But no matter what, I'm still drawn to my roots.I've had a dream, that when I retired, that I would have a home to return to.(Think they can bring it back in 5 years?) I've read all comments.That's why we all live in america. Freedom of speech and entitlement to our different opinions. Does anyone have pics' of old Webster elem., Washington elem.,Coffmans market, etc. CORRECTIONS: The new Lincoln Middle school sits on the site where Hughs Quinn Jr. High once stood. The old Sears Bldg. is on 10th street, and is now the school district (189) offices. Christian Welfare Hospital wasn't torn down as of 5yrs. ago, but it shoulb be because it's just a shell, and an ugly eye sore. Saint Joseph is now a pre-school like most of the catholic schools. This hurts me too. I attended Saint Adalbert,and our beautiful church now has a freeway running through it. Somebody e-mail me about the good 'ole days, and old pics of buildings if you have them. elvira_jones@att.net

topodaday		13-Jan-2010 22:33
I have found a class ring for the year 1960 for Lincoln High School. Maybe you could help me find a graduating class roster for that year so I can locate the owner. Initials are engraved inside. topodaday@gmail.com

Tony. Houston.		13-Jan-2010 18:00
Yes Mark, Mr Goff was my 6th grade teacher. I remember him well. My Mother had let me take an old Poem Book that had bEEN IN HER FAMILY FOR YEARS TO SCHOOL ONE DAY TO SHOW mR gOFF, SOME HOW OR ANOTHER i NEVER GOT IT BACK. bOY WAS SHE UPSET !

Guest		13-Jan-2010 15:56
For: Tony Houston You may want to try classmates.com website, there's another one called 'The Hangar' that's exclusively for those who attended East Side I believe, but you have to get an invitation to go on there. Some members you probably can contact through Facebook if you set up an account there. Also, if you knew anyone who attended Assumption they have one :www.ahspioneers.org--hope that helps. Frances Burton

Jennifer		13-Jan-2010 07:22
Hello...this sounds strange I am looking for anyone who went to HAZELWOOD EAST HIGH and graduated in or around 1940's or knows anyone who has...I am looking for a woman who went to school there..she is my grandma i do not know if she is still alive...Her maiden name is Jeannie Foster if anyone knows any info please contact me...My mother and I have been looking for her...she gave my mom up for adoption to Lester Briggs and Norma Jean (theriac) briggs. thanks for your time

67Worldchampions		12-Jan-2010 23:29
Tony, was your 6th grade teacher Mr Goff at Harding in 1966-1967? Mark

Tony Houston		12-Jan-2010 17:53
I have many fond memories of East. St. Louis !! And always will. My first gradeschool was Slade, on 27th and State St. I love the fond memories i have of growing up in E.St.L. I am on Facebook and have tried to contact several old friends to just see how they are. It has been a slow process. I remember as a little boy my Mother use to take us downtown to Collinsville Ave, at Christmas season to the little red Santa clause houses they had on the street, to see Santa. I remember the old W.T.Grants on Collinsville Ave, the old Union clothing Store, and the old Sears on arond 6th or 7th and state St. My Mother use to work for the old Dyer o Hare, trucking co. and the old A&P warehouse in Sauget, as did I in 1973 - 1975. I will always have fond memories of my childhood in this wonderful city ! Tony Houston, william.houston@gm.com

Tony. Houston		11-Jan-2010 18:04
I grew up all over E.St.L. I was born at St. Mary's Hosp, on 5/25/1954. I lived all over. I lived in the Roosevelt Homes as a baby, I lived off 16th and St Clair Ave, Wabashaw Ave as a toddler, 50th and Bunkum Rd, in Rosemont, 51st and Caseyville Ave, 23rd and State St, Waverley and North Park Dr, 52nd and state St, Behind Robert Halls clothing store, on Circle Dr, 73rd and State St, ...., I went to Slade School on 27th and State St, Jefferson Ele, on 25th and Waverley, Manners, and Morrison Elementaries, and to Clark Jr High School. I hung around all over Rosemont, Washington Park, and other places on State St, I went to Joneses Prk as a boy. I have many many fond memories of growing up in E.St.Louis !!! I love to sit and listen to oldies once in a while and think back to my childhood days. I now live in Fort Worth Tx area, but have family all over Belleville, Collinsville, and the surrounding areas. I go home several times a year. My name is Tony. Houston, and would love to hear from any one who remembers me.

Guest		09-Jan-2010 02:37
@ All American City 1959, yes President Obama did visit ESL when he was a Senator. It was Aug. 2005. I'm proud to be from ESL, and I go back and visit every year.

jim		07-Jan-2010 11:59
i lived in east es louis manny years ago 620 rear trenley the best town i have ever been in 1935 till 1960

All American City 1959		06-Jan-2010 21:32
When I returned from my last visit to my home town ESL, a thought came to me. Where was the hope and change for East St. Louis when Obama was senator in Illinois?? Did the senator ever even visit the city? America you are in for a rude awakening!

J.T.		03-Jan-2010 12:35
I was born in St. Mary's Hospital in 1960. I am searching for anyone that may have attended Morrison School in 1960 to about 1963. I am searching for my sister that attended school there and would love to maybe find a photo of her. I can remember in the early 1970's about 5 new families came to my little catholic school in Millstadt, IL. They had moved from E. St. Louis with stories of bomb threats constantly if they did not move out. I was just in awe of these stories having grown up in an all white German town with no crime. When I found part of my birth family, they lived in E. St. Louis for years and finally moved to Belleville because my Aunt had been attacked walking to the store and the last time she was hurt badly, so they borrowed money from the family and left. They have great stories of E. St. Louis in its Prime...

Guest		03-Jan-2010 08:19
Someone ask about the old Christan Welfare hospital, I regret to informed you that that Hospital no longer there it has been torn down many years ago, back in the middle eighties.

Dennis		30-Dec-2009 19:51
I graduated from ESL High in 1988. I went into the military and I come home to visit about once a year(and to get a snoot). My family lived at 628 n 39th from around 1971-2002. I remember as a kid when the carnival would come over to the lot where the Tri-city grocery(around 47th and state) used to be. I still have family in ESL on Bond ave and other spots in the city. My most fond memories of the city is when I was a small child and things seem to be pretty good. I also remember my me and my grandfather playing catch in the park on around the 3100 block on Bond ave.

All American City 1959		29-Dec-2009 18:47
Well I deceided to take another spin through my home town with my buddy Joe. (Aren't we CRAZY?!) He did the driving while I took the pictures. As mentioned before I grew up in ESL from 1955 thru 1973. I did find more address's of my relative's homes and sites, so we went looking. As I expected 12 out of 14 homes, my church on 9th & Summit, Christian Welfare Hospital (were I was born) my schools, Parkside, Harding, Clark all GONE!! What in the HELL is wrong with these people!?? When my relatives moved out of these homes they were beautiful and well kept! And PLEASE don't give me this crap that they were old! So is the White House and it was built in 1800! It's called, Up Keep! DUH! I noticed that the population is below 30,000 now. I hope what ever good people are left can get out as soon as possible! Then the state of Illinois can level whats left of the city and put up a monument and a park from Signal Hill to Rush City, to pay tribute to the good people who once lived there, worked there, raised many great families and respected the city. I would send money for this! By my calculations in the last 45 years there has been over 6,000 murders in East St. Louis! This number would compare to any large city in the U.S or in the world 100 times the size of ESL!! People talk about the war in Iraq? Mr. Obama needs to send troops to ESL and clean up this mess once and for all and put these people out of their misery!! Maybe he could win that war. One last thing. This is another great example of the Liberal Socialist agenda, FDR'S "THE GREAT SOCIETY" And LBJ'S "WAR ON POVERTY"!! FAILURE!!!!!

CocoaBrown		21-Dec-2009 19:27
This is to LaMar Taylor, OMG...cannot wait to speak w/ you...I go on this sight everyday, just to make sure that I get the latest posts. They are all interesting...I emailed you...get in touch...Alvin Jones resides in Seattle...I cannot believe you guys are that close...anyway, check your email...Patricehumber@ymail.com

LaMar Taylor		20-Dec-2009 20:53
My name is LaMar Taylor a 1980 graduate of E.St.Louis Sr. High. I have read many of the responses here thus I would like to contact others. I have a positive memory of E. St. Louis. I am a graduate of Martin Van Lucas and Clarke Jr. High. I was good friends with Alvin "Bert" Jones, Kevin "fat daddy" Ramsey, Pat "J" Bynum Pickle Sister), Kendall"Lil Dog" Bush, Byron"Coop" Cooper, Anita Harrington, Edward Lofton (Chicken), Rado Perry, Bridgette Williams and Johnny Ramsey to name a few. I grew up mainly on Post Place. When I was growing up E. St. Louis was a decent city to live in. All cities have always had problems but for the most part most of us got along very well. Sports played a important part of our lives but it was a big part of friendships for us as well. The school system faired well for me and I now hold a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Technology, Master of Information Science, Master of Environmental Policy & Law and a Doctorate of Jurisprudence (JD). I would love to hear from anyone out there who knows me and would like to converse. I currently live in University Place Washington and I go home to E.St. Louis every so often as my family still lives there. Please feel free to contact: LaMar Taylor, JD, MSEL, MLS, BS Email: Ready L2003@yahoo.com

John		18-Dec-2009 10:37
I am deeply saddened to read and see how badly East St. Louis has decayed. Even in 1964 when I briefly visited there, the decay was pretty bad. I take a personal interest because (as I just discovered) one of the first settlers on this spot was my great-great-great-great grandfather, James Piggott, after whom Piggott Street is named. He would have been proud of the East St. Louis of the era before 1960, when it was thriving and growing. Not now, I fear.

LaWanda Scott-Mincey		15-Dec-2009 21:30
Judge less not be judged! As with any city, yes E. St. Louis has had its share of problems. However, I was born and raised in that city and learned valuable life altering lessons there. Furthermore, I was educated in a district that genuinely cared about academic excellence (Dunbar/Hughes Quinn/LHS)! I also had the privelege of partaking in cultural experiences that other cities I've lived in and/or visited do not offer. Therefore, I would trade nothing for my journey in East st. Louis. Most of my family still lives there, and I anxiously visit as often as possible. Don't judge the people there as a result of the few depictions you have seen on the interenet. If you want to get the true essence of the city, GO VISIT and talk to the hard-working, loving people living there!!!

Tom		14-Dec-2009 00:15
I left in 82 for Richmond VA which is a slightly less dangerous place to live. Growing up on 80th St in Edgemont was great until around 1975 or so when things slowly turned worse & worse each yr. In 1977 I went to St Louis to attend college in U City & then 1982 moved to Richmond, Va for grad school. Nobody here would believe I grew up there & was not a thug. My parents stayed in ESL until about 1990 after our neighbor got her front door kicked down from a gang that squatted in the house across the alley. The single old woman of 90 was hanging out of her bathroom window sceaming for my father to get his gun!! He did not have a gun but it scared the intruder off. My dad woke up to the danger. He realized it was too dangerous for an old couple in their 80's to stay any longer. I was thrilled they decided to move & not become another statistic. I am sad ESL has not recovered, has grown even worse! My Assumption HS is a prison now. Last time I visited in 2000 it was far worse than I had hoped. Can it get any worse? It has to turn around at some point, doesn't it? I would love to see it a safe place to raise a family again. Some really great people I knew from ESL. I would love to do something to help ESL back on its feet.

Tom		13-Dec-2009 23:56
I graduated from the original Assumption HS before it was turned into a prison.

Charlotte Hearn Alexander		11-Dec-2009 05:57
Tony, I too lived on north 47th Street (1449 N 47th Street) and went to Woodrow Wilson Grade School -- started there in 1951 through 4th grade(Mrs Williams first grade, Mrs. Devine 3rd, Mrs. Schutze 4th (I have a picture of our 4th grade class!) then on to ? Landsdown? 5th and 6th grades until we moved to Belleville in 1956 - My Dad worked at the Aluminum Ore (ALCOA) plant on Missouri Avenue from 1929 until we moved to Arkansas in 1961 (he was transferred to the plant here). My Mother worked at the Majestic Candy Kitchen adjacent to the Majestic Theater prior to my parents marriage. I remember Christmas shopping and going downtown Friday nights with my parents where Dad would bowl and Mom would shop! I took accordion lessons at Sunny Shields, Arlene ? was my teacher. Our accordion band often played on the Admiral in the summer time. Kids today don't know what a "dime store" is! I too think it sad that most of these places we knew as children are gone -- I now live in Little Rock Arkansas in the house where my husband grew up - same neighbor hood he roamed as a child and the school across the street he attended first through 6th grade - nothing much has changed, neighborhood very safe and all homes are occupied. Little Rock has no areas of decay like those described in these posts. I've read all the posts about what went wrong and thing it all quite sad.

FormerlyESL		03-Dec-2009 04:35
I really enjoy reading these posts. Born and raised in the "All American City" until drafted in 67. Returned and until 1979 I was a mailman-I walked EVERY FOOT of ESL. I attended Morrison school, Clark and East Side. Enjoyed skipping classes and going to Shop City Bowling Alley. Fun times at Custard's Last Stand, Prices Burger, the A&W and Hannigan's (all in Edgemont) and the best ribs around at Sam's on Route 50. Yeh, I would bus it to the Majestic and Esquire theaters and skated at Hudson's Roller Rink. East St. Louis, its memories and its future, is what people make of it. Go FLYERS!!!

Judiann Edwards-Burrus		02-Dec-2009 11:49
Guest Would love to have someone who remembers the names of as many of the old E.S.L. neighborhoods as they can contact me. Doing research to write a book about my life for my sons and grandson. I lived in Edgemont during the 50's between what was State Street and Saint Clair Avenue. Attended Harding Elementary, Clark Junior High, and East Side. I remember a couple of the neighborhood names, like Washington Park and Ping Pong. Thanks much. Judy Ann judyann_edwards@yahoo.com

Guest		01-Dec-2009 22:13
Thanks Richard, I started 1st there in 1949. Do you know of any photos on the internet of Wilson? Tony

CocoaBrown		30-Nov-2009 16:00
For Cedric, Did you bring up some names or what?! It is good to know you are well and are thriving...life can be a BEEOTCH! I am surprised that you didn't know, but very shortly after high school, Bridgette Williams became involved with this sleaze ball, his name was "Perry"...he had Bridgette out there real bad...she is still out there as far as I know. My old childhood chums are doing well. Most live outside of the state, but there are a few in the surrounding cities as well. I get together with them whenever I can. I travel a lot as well my job has afforded me that luxury. Just came from Amsterdam and France November 08...bananas! You should try to touch base with Reggie Hudlin, he is in LA, he is currently directing episodes of Modern Family and The Office...he graduated from AHS as well in 1979. My cousin is in San Diego with her husband they both attended ESH ...one whom you may know-Kelly lives in Vegas

Richard		30-Nov-2009 15:12
Tony the school in Rosemont was Wilson, I lived 3 doors down from the school. Accross the street from Gregory's confectionary.

bobby		28-Nov-2009 22:07
does anyybody remember pudgeys bar?

Cedric		25-Nov-2009 16:40
Hi, CocaBrown� Back in the 70�s everybody knew everybody, I went to school with Alvin Jones. I had friends that went to assumption and excuse me if I misspell their names, �Tammy Howell & Edmund Jones�. I had another friend that went to Lincoln and his name is Patrick Patterson. One of my closes friends of course went to East Side and her name is Bridgette Williams. I have no idea where any of them are now but I hope all is well. For me, being born and raised in E. St. Louis, a part of me will always be there; therefore, when I go back home, I�m not afraid. I just feel at home. I reside in Southern California now and it is just as crazy as home. It may look different but it is just as crazy. My parents (Eddie & Gloria Anderson) live in Fairview and my Sister & Brother in-law (Derick & Anita Hobson) live in Bellville. Our home was on 35th & Bond, across the street from Virginia Park. I do have uncles and aunts that still reside in the City. My wife and I do travel a lot and I do try to make it back home as often as I can. Sorry that you feel afraid but I can understand why. Any info on the reunion my e-mail address is cedr1105@aol.com.

CocaBrown		24-Nov-2009 19:39
This message is for Cedric...I went to Assumption, graduated in 80...where is everyone...I used to date Alvin Jones. OMG. I just seen Kevin Ramsey in AZ, I have a lot of family out there now...do you remember my sister, Pickle(Dawn Bynum), she went to East Side. I hate coming home...I'm too afraid I won't make it back to my family in Massachusetts. It really sucks...more murders per capita...

Cedric		23-Nov-2009 23:12
All I can say is that I enjoyed my time in E. St. Louis and will never forget it. I graduated from E. St. Louis Sr. High School in 1980 and look forward to returning for our 30th class reunion. My question is, will there be a 30th class reunion?

Tony		23-Nov-2009 16:36
Just came across this forum while doing Some Genealogy Research on my family. I grew up in East St. louis from 1943 until 1958. Went to grade school at Cannady and what was Rock Jr High. I started Grade school in what used to be Rosemont when we lived on N. 47th Street, but I don't know the name of the grade school. I do remember "Gregory's" had a soda fountain shop across the sreet. When I grew up on Natalie ave, I would take a bus from 15th & Natalie to the Majestic Theatre, I was only about 10 years old then and it was completely safe to ride the bus to collinsville ave. While I had some bad memeories of East St. Louis, I had plenty of good ones also. Is anyone doing Genealogy on there family while living in East St. Louis during the 40' & 50's?

lloyd		22-Nov-2009 00:24
ESL could become the Prototype City for Obama's Economic and Environmental Agenda: My wife was born in ESL, Eastside grad. Her family remains and we have visited annually or at least every 18 mos. since 1998. After observing the condition of the City and reading about its glorious history, I began to think about ways to revitalize this area. Finally, we developed a strategy that is tailored specifically for ESL, i.e. the non-traditional approach to economic development. Our approach is to create JOBS first unlike the typical model which is to focus on the physical space (HOPE IV). Jobs will become the catalyst or the multiplier for other development such as small business growth, a stable tax base, home ownership, edu and cultural amenities. If you would like to join our effort to make this a Prototype City, please contact us at lwynn123@comcast.net or lloyd@restudents.net.

Guest		20-Nov-2009 00:42
I was born At St Mary Hospital,in East St. Louis Ill, we moved after my father passed to Detroit, Mi. I think of ESL so many childhood good times.I attend Attuck Elem. school in the early 1960s. I just returned to attend the furneral of my great-neice who was Tenikia Harvey,one of the three girl killed in their car. I visit my old place where we lived 8 north 22st street across from the skating ring. We moved in November 1965 I miss and still love East St Louis Ill

Guest		18-Nov-2009 22:25
What is going on in ESTL, right now?! There has been in the last two weeks, three young ladies shot in their car, all with babies inside...a five year old girl..dead...stray bullet. Alvin Parks,please send in the National Guard, get some law and order up in there..YOU should address this like you addressed the opening of "clubs" and allowing them to serve alcohol until 6:00AM are you serious!

Guest		16-Nov-2009 18:00
I am a a former resident of the eside i do still live in the area trying to make contact with all assumption grads 1983 to 1986 jim collins eastbeeast@yahoo.com thanks be blessed.

Guest		11-Nov-2009 06:07
Gloria, many schools closed in district 189; but new ones opened. We reallllly need people who care. Keep an open mind. I am 60 and went to school when it was care free and safe. It would be so beneficial to have caring teachers in a district with so much poverty. District 189 was at one time a very highly paid district. GOD BLESS YOU

Cherrie		10-Nov-2009 03:51
Hi,I was born(1961) and raised(1983) in E.St.Louis back then everyone called me by my nickname "WORM". I lived 626 North 8th Street, my first phone number was 618-274-0708, went to Longfellow Elementary then A.M.Jackson, Rock Jr. High and East Side. Where are the folks from 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, Alexander St, Hall St, Frederick St, Pennsylvania St St.Clair St, Ohio St, Summitt St, Veronica St, Washington Place, Wabasha St, College St, Belmont St, Collinsville, Gray Blvd, and etc? If anyone who lived in these areas from 1966 - 1979 please go to classmates.com to get in contact with me

Gloria		09-Nov-2009 16:01
I have been reading this website all week-end and have been quite amazed. I use to teach at Lilly Freeman from 1977-1980. I currently teach and live in Las Vegas. First, I would like to say that my first teaching job was in East St. Louis. I LOVED teaching there and can remember how the students wanted to learn and was very enjoyable. The teachers at that school really worked hard and it was just a wonderful place to work. I can remember when each child had their own dictionary and a ruler...I thought that was the greatest! At that time I headed up the Brownie Scout at Lilly-Freeman and the girls loved being involved and felt good about themselves because the principal made sure that they were involved in many school activiities. It was small and personal working for District 189. I remember as a teacher how we would go to the district office for lunch and they would cook burgers and cat fish on Fridays. Many times during my teaching career, I have wanted to return to District 189 to teach. Actually, I stop by the district office one time and inquired about returning and was told that I would probably be layed off after a year because so many schools were closing at the time. Now that I am going to retire, maybe that is a possiblity. Children are children and they all really want to learn and feel good about their accomplishments! Thanks!

Guest		07-Nov-2009 09:23
Thanks Cocoa Brown. I kne about the zoo and arch but did not know about the Burger King and McDonalds. How beautiful and safe ESTL used to be.

CocoaBrown		06-Nov-2009 16:09
There is NOTHING for pre-teens let alone teens do in ESTL...it is insane! There are plenaty of "free" activities in Downtown St. Louis for the children. The St. Louis Zoo, The St. Louis City Museum...that was really awesome, you can spend all day in there. There is the Arch...call these places for specific times and scheduled for free tours and such, you can always finish with lunch on the McDonald's or Burger King boats that are docked and with walking distance of the Arch. The last time I was home, my cousins, whom were also visiting from different states...we love home, but damn. I am not going to lie...I couldn't bring myself to go out to a club...too afraid I wouldn't make it back to Massachusetts, it's funny-they were all set and thankfully came back to the hotel safe and sound! I left ESTL shortly after graduation from High School...thank goodness, I honestly don't know what my future would have held if I stayed...hhhmm!

Guest		06-Nov-2009 03:07
This is for E. White. What do you have that every other small town has. Have moved backed recently. I can't find a theatre; skating rink; horseback range; a safe park or anything for the youth. I am here only for a short time. We are taking of my grandmother until she can once again be on her own. U would love to take my nieces and nephews on outings and show them where their family use to play when they were young. Majestic, Thunderbird and Hudson skating rinks are gone. No horse back riding at GrandMarias and Jones Park no longer have their boat rides. What are kids to do. Don't want to venture to far away so tell me wnat there is to do near 25th Street?

Guest		04-Nov-2009 16:24
Lnne Lewis. The place for snoots was Nichols. I, too, grew up in your error. We never locked our doors. East St Louis was so safe. It is a real hell hole now. Statistics state it is the worst place to live. Two years ago it ranked second worse place to live. I will always be proud to say I am from there.

Lynne Lewis		03-Nov-2009 16:05
I went to all private schools in East St Louis, Ill (Namely) P L Dunbar grade 1946 to 1952, Hughes-Quinn Jr High 1952 to 1955 and finishing off at Lincoln Sr High 1955 to 1958. I had the best teachers, they cared about the students. Back in those days, we had corporal punishment, the best thing for us,from lining up to enter Dunber, to not having homework, missing test questions,and being late for school. Nothing was wrong with any of that, even your neighbors could spank you if you needed it. In 1963 I saw a documentary about E. St Louis, Ill, saying "It was the worst city in the State if not the nation". what a shame. It has always been my home and my beginning. Lincoln Park on 14th and Piggott was the best park as I was growing up. We had adult supervision on all the rides and playgrounds. My neighbors were care givers to all the children, a person was not afraid to walk in any neighborhood. Even the drunks at the cut rate liquor store would not bother the children that had to past by them to get to the park and Kramers grocery store. The Vets was the popular hang out for the adults, and Rockway for fountain sodas, snoots (forgot where),and Mr Teers pool hall. Mr T. Polk sitting in his yard with 'Henry, doberman pinscher'actually watching the children and the tennis court, which he could see from his front yard. There are so many pleasent memories of East St Louis, Ill,it's too back people don't remember the good things. Broadway, The Deluxe and the Majestic down town, movie theaters. I am proud to say that I am from East St Louis, Ill - to anyone that asks me.

Guest		03-Nov-2009 01:09
E. White, you sound foolish when you make such claims. I hate to take you to reality but East St. Louis is the biggest slum in America. It is the worst place to live with the worst crime rate in the entire country. Worst Places to live in America: 1. East St. Louis, Illinois 2. Gary, Indiana 3. Cairo, Illinois 4. Camden, New Jersey

E. White		01-Nov-2009 23:31
25street, East st. louis.We have things like every other small town.

The Nubian		29-Oct-2009 20:48
To the person who said that Blacks came to East Saint Louis to work when there was a strike going on is wrong. There was a federal works project going on and East Saint Louis was a pass thru on the rail line. It was the paranoia of a few White people that started the panic. There was a riot. My grandma lived through it with her family. She's still alive and can remember it like it was yesterday. Her family was taken to Aluminum Ore where her dad worked to be safe. One of my uncles was too sick to moved so my great- grandfather and great-great grandfather stayed with him, and they hired men to protect the house. Read and get your facts straight.

Runner		25-Oct-2009 23:52
I lived in E St louis from birth(1964)..Until my family followed the rest of our family..we moved out of the city 10 years later..I do have good memories growing up,and the friends I had were great. I remember how safe and beautiful it was. I hope one day the city comes back. I visit the city on occasion...but only during the day. I have to admit...when aked where I was born...I never say "E St Louis"

Guest		18-Oct-2009 02:21
Graduated in Jan 69 from EastSide. Does anyone know the where-abouts of Fern Jordan?

Guest		16-Oct-2009 06:09
Martin Luther King Jr. High was torn down a few years after it was built due to constant flooding. It was built in an area that was previously swamp lands.

Guest		14-Oct-2009 04:20
(con't) and the whole area was completely flooded back in the mid-50's. The homes were submerged in water almost to their roofs. They never should have built in that area.

Richard		13-Oct-2009 21:05
My dad use to work at Switzers, I remember it well. What ever happened to Martin Luther King Jr High (77 Ridge Ave.)? I went to it the first year it was open and have tried to find information on it but it's like it was never there.

Guest		11-Oct-2009 05:07
I was just talking about East St. Louis today and how there used to be a park/playground at 78th & State that had the best swings and sliding board ever. Now there is a new school built on top of it all...same with Custard's Last Stand at 56th & State that we used to frequent, a new Clark Jr. High School where that used to be. Lot's of new changes on State Street. I do remember smelling the licorice while crossing the Eads Bridge so long ago. I also remember the smells of the old Sears store that used to be at 10th & State, where they had a snack counter that sold hot dogs which were grilling on rollers right where you could see them and the candy counter with chocolates and the best butter batter fruit cakes at Christmas time. There was also a bell that used to ring in the store but I don't know what it was for. Even though these things are gone physically, they will live forever in my memories...

Guest		11-Oct-2009 03:37
I have taken the liberty to read majority of your comments concerning your fun memories of growing up in EAST ST LOUIS, and also, your horror stories of EAST ST LOUIS. I understand that some of you have a heart felt sadness for the dimise of the place you once called home. Many of you think you know why the GREAT EAST ST LOUIS fell so hard, and why it can not come back as the glorious place it once was. I ask you all a question. How much do you really love the memory of this place? As so many of you stated, your lives was formed right there, that precious land have a piece of souls, and that is why you have spent the time to share your memories, with complete strangers. Step up be heard. We as GOD'S people and JESUS followers is the key instrument to helping revive your home town. IAM ASKING YOU ALL TO STOP CONDEMING, AND BECOME APART OF HISTORY, BY HELPING RESTORE OUR BELOVED BIRTHPLACE EAST ST LOUIS. I DONT BELEIVE THAT JESUS IS A RESPECTOR OF PERSONS. ALL PEOPLE WILL BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE OF HOW AND WHAT THEY DID WITH THEIR LIVES ON EARTH. I CHALLENGE YOU!!!!! LET'S WORK TOGETHER TO MAKE EAST ST LOUIS THE PLACE PEOPLE WOULD LIKE TO LIVE AND WORK. THINK IT OVER, ITS THE RIGHT THING TO DO. IF YOU ONCE LOVED YOU CAN LOVE AGAIN.

Guest		10-Oct-2009 13:31
I commented before about my father and grandfather who worked a Broadhead Ford on Missouri Ave. I was just there 10/1-10/5. Whenever we visit my mother we visit ESL. Although there were many empty buildings and strret lights that were replaced by stop signs, there were places on State Street that looked renewed. Does Eastside have a new football feild? In my last comment I neglected to mention my aunt who worked at Heitman Poultry at the stockyards for 60 years. She is 90 years old. My son and I visited St louis and used the EADS Bridge. Does anyone remember Switzers licorice. You could smell the licorice when you approached the west end of EADS.

Guest		24-Sep-2009 00:02
Hello Jayson. Thanks for allowing all of the comments. You have allowed us to share so many good memories of our childhood. How and why did you start this walk down memory lane? If you have to take the time to edit and read all of these comments I again have to thank you. I am sure you could at some point be doing something you enjoy more. For all of us oldies that have been able to go back in time I thank you from the bottom of my heart. People come and go and children get married and move away; but memories are cherished your entire life. THANKS AGAIN AND GOD BLESS.

Guest		23-Sep-2009 23:52
Guest of 9-22-09. What year was the train derailment. I must have missed it. I graduated from East ST Louis also. I graduated in 1974. I was always told I walked around in a bubble because I didn't pay attention to my surroundings. I was never threatened; hurt or abused except for verbally. I was called the fat a-- white bit--. It hurt my self image. I got over it. Still fat and still happy. Good education. Good memories.

Guest		22-Sep-2009 14:30
I was born and raised in East St Louis. Graduated East Side High in 1973. Loved my school and city --- and I am a white female. I was one of the few whites to survive my entire school education in East St Louis and graduate with a positive attitude toward the city. I blame white flight - my definition is that of whites too afraid to accept the changes around them, too afraid to accept people different from themselves, that they chose to abandon their homes and heritage. Yes it was a dangerous place, but the danger came from people - both black and white - not willing to see each other as just people. In school I was well known because I interacted with everyone - was in band, choir, on the newspaper, on the yearbook staff, went to the basketball and football games. I did not try to isolate myself from those around me. I admit that my security also came from many black friends from these organizations that looked out for me. The only times of fear came while working at the old Neider's Dairy on a evening shift where we were robbed practically every day. I missed an armed robbery where the owner was shot by just 15 minutes. What happened to East St Louis was instumental in the formation of my core being. I saw a town that had half of its residents' homes destroyed by a train explosion (during my high school years) come together so that their children could still finish their school year. I saw dedicated teachers - white and black - continue to fight for the excellent education of the youth. I saw a city depleted of the tax paying middle class and taken over by graft and corruption and gangs - all for the love of money. Politics is what destroyed East St Louis, along with ignorance and fear. I love my city of birth and mourn that I can never take my children and future grandchildren back to see the home I grew up in nor the schools I went to as these have been destroyed.

Guest		20-Sep-2009 03:19
Arjay Ratliff reveals his true self. A HUGE RACIST, blaming everything on whites and taking no responsibility for himself. I hope he still lives in East St. Louis; he belongs there. Do your research Arjay! You don't know anything about East St. Louis and blaming 500 years of slavery on the people of East St. Louis is absurd. Illinois was never a slave state. It was an industrial city of immigrants who moved there long after slavery ended. The fact that trainloads of blacks from the south moved there as strike-breakers in 1916 doesn't reflect very well on the blacks, does it? The white immigrants were dirt poor and were fighting for their families and livelihood. What did the strike-breakers expect: welcoming parades? The strike-breakers were outsiders who were jeopardizing the very lives of the East St. Louis workers. THAT's what caused the LABOR RIOT of 1917. It wasn't a race riot at all; that's another myth. The fact that you believe that blacks are being raped today for fun like going to the movies is so bizarre that you really need to be admitted to an insane asylum! Now it's time to stop your racial hatred and go find a city in the south you can use to blame for causing slavery. We just want to enjoy the photos from Jayson and talk about the great old memories when East St. Louis was a great town and a fine place to live. Why don't you let the rest of us enjoy the photos and memories without your turning it into a bizarre racist conspiracy. If anything, you might open a book and learn that slavery was in the SOUTHERN states and the northern states fought a war to end slavery. By the way, East St Louis had a thriving black business area even in the days of segregation. It was particularly known for its music and clubs on the riverfront and was celebrated the world over. The East St. Louis riverfront along with Memphis and New Orleans were the Big Three areas that were famous for Blues and later Jazz along the Mississippi. Until the "Black Power" movement of the 1960's, black East St. Louis was a welcoming place for whites. It's the youngsters today with all their racist conspiracies and sense of entitlement that are creating all the racial hatred and violence.

Pat Cunningham-Flannigan		19-Sep-2009 23:22
On an earlier message I fought to ask Carol Cunninghan-Flannigan if we could possibly be related. My name is Pat Cunningham-Flannighan. (cousins I beleive) I was born in East St Louis and graduated from Cahokia in 1962. My dad was a dentist in ESTL on 45th & State and mom was a dentist in Belleville. My mom took over her dads practice and assumed his last name. My fathers brother, out of Chicago, married a young girl with the same maden name as my mother (How odd is that) They were killed in an auto accident before I was born and I believe her name was Estelle. My uncle was Frank Jr. You would have been raised in the Chicago area by your mothers family. I believe you were two when your parents passed. If you are the parents of Estelle and Frank and would like to communicate the door is open.

Arjay Ratliff		19-Sep-2009 04:29
Hmmm! Ok Now the gloves are comming off! Now I'm listening to all this crap about how bad you had it and all these other things! How is any of this different from what had been happening to men and woman of color for the last 500 years! Except they didn't have the option of moving away or even telling a parent or family member!Often enduring mind knumbing pain, petrifying fear in an ongoing siege of evil and violence! Unanswered and UNAVANGED mind you! Or are these things just a figment of our imagination! There were blacks being raped and murdered for the simple reason that it was something to do! Like going to a football game or the movies it was intertainment!This was happening since the 1500's to the mid 1970's. And as quiet as it's kept ( so people think) still going on today in some way shape or form! So again i've done my research COMPLETELY AND DEEPLY! I'm sorry for the Misfortune any of you suffered! But it pails dismally to the atrosities endured by the African American's in this country! At this point I don't cared who feels upset! Truth is truth! Get a history book then get a clue!

Carol Cunningham-Flannigan		16-Sep-2009 22:38
Arjay, I do agree with Pat Buchanan, Joyce from 9-13; 1959 All Americanand Guest from 9-16-09. The white business that took wings to flight were robbed, burn't out and threatened. I beleive we did our research as well as you. Only we used diferent material than you. I grew up there in the 60's. The white girls at Clark Jr High had their body parts touched every by black students. We were threatened within an inch of our lives. Times were different then. We would never have come home and told our parents because they would have gone to school and when word got out our home would have been burned. You can not tell me that you don not beleive white people would have left if the work was there. Your right about one thing most businesses were owned for many years by whites. All were burned down or owners killed. DO ALL OF YOUR RESEARCH NOT JUST THE PART YOU WANTED TO BY THE BLACK COMMUNITY.

Arjay Ratliff		16-Sep-2009 16:30
Boy let me tell you, I'm am loving the dialog that my last two posts have sparked! I have come to the realization that I may need to define "White Flight". First of all these are not my words. They have been used for years to discribe a type of economic decline that is not discussed. East Saint Louis (Illinois Town) was founded June 6 1820. Now we all know who founded this city! In time many industries saw the value in the area due to the river and rail access. Thus spawning tens of thousands of jobs, subsequently skyrocketting the economy.Now in order for these newly formed corperations to have maximum revenue, they started recuiting southern blacks. Why? Because they would work for lower wages and were very reliable. Now mind you, that slavery wasn't abolished in the US until 1865!So after this point the slaves that were fortunate enough to be released came flocking to the north. A great many settling in the ESL City limits. It's too much to write. But I implore you to research the events that took place in our city in 1917. Now back to "White Flight" There were never any significant black owned business in ESL. When I say Significant I mean factories and other business that spawn residual revenue (New Money). Now any other business such as all retail or commerce, are strengthened or weakend by the residual revenue. Which means that if people are not working and making residual revenue (New Money)then all the other business suffer because no one can afford to shop. Causing other business to down size or close their doors all together. Records show that over 95% of the retail business and 100% of Factories untill about 1980 was white owned and opperated. In order to excape total financial ruin as well as rapidly growing racial tention these people ran (Flight). Thus spawning the term "White Flight". It's not nessesarily a derogatory term! But is a very accurate discription of the economic decline of East St.Loius.This is just a brief synopsis. Please don't take my word for any of this information! Read it for yourself and draw your own conclusions! Knowledge is power!

Guest		16-Sep-2009 04:39
Arjay Ratliff is exactly right: East St. Louis is a shambles because of white flight. The militant black gangs ("BLACK POWER!!!!) who drove out all the white residents in the 1960's ended up completely destroying the city because they wanted the city for themselves. They wanted a black city under black control without any whites. They got it and look what they did with it. East St. Louis is a testament to 50 years of complete black ownership, corruption, and mis-management, a crime ridden black city in ruins, always demanding a handout and blaming everyone else. Now people like Arjay Ratliff want to re-write history to blame the whites for leaving the poor helpless blacks alone and letting them have exactly what they wanted? He thinks that East St. Louis is a mess because whites left poor incompetent blacks to run their own lives? What an anti-black (and anti-white)racist sentiment Arjay Ratliff proposes!!!!! There haven't been any whites in East St. Louis for FIFTY YEARS! At what point will the current East St. Louis residents start taking responsibility for their own mess? Analyze the census reports Mr Ratliff! Most of the current residents have moved into East St. Louis during the last fifty years (or were born of mothers who moved into the city from the south during the last fifty years). These people LIKE East St. Louis the way it is. They moved there because its cheap and they wanted to, not because they were LEFT BEHIND in Ratliff's imaginary racist conspiracy. East St. Louis today reflects its current residents (despair, entitlement, crime, drugs, political corruption, racial hatred) just as the East St. Louis of 100 years ago reflected its residents (hope, optimism, hard work, the American Dream, political corruption, racial hatred). East St Louis is exactly as it should be, a city that truly reflects its residents, virtually all of whom live there because they like it, not because anyone forced them to.

1959 all American City		15-Sep-2009 16:54
EAST ST. LOUIS IS GONE!!!! As I mentioned before I was born in 1955 @ Christian Welfare(Burned down) Hospital. Lived on 39th & State(Burned Down) and 70th street in Parkside sub.(Burned down). Both sides of my family are from ESL. I was 4th generation. (By the way my granfather's homes are also gone and they were beautiful!!) I went to the following schools: Slade: (burned down)Mrs. Goldsburro. Parkside (closed), Mrs. Peerman, Miss Wolfram, Mrs. Clancy. Harding(burned down), Mrs. Easily & Mr. Goff. Clark(closed, gutted, fire), Mr. Morey, Miss Vanderbelt, Mr. Olendorph. Mrs. Temper. East Side(Should be condemed), Mr. Isam, Mr. Koenig, Mr. Solaman. We moved in 1974, finish last sem. @ Collinsville High, THANK GOD. We left our home and on 39th street which my grandfather paid $8000 in 1959, some women bought it for a dollar!! We got nothing for the house. We moved because it was getting very dangerous, I had to plan my walk to East Side everyday, including how to get home without being mugged or killed each and every day! You talk about reverse discrimination!! I did nothing to these people!!!!!!! We had a next door neighbor who was a cop, he was shot and killed and then his son was murdered. Mr. Price who owned Prices Drive-In on St. Clair Ave was Shot and Killed by some thug in 1972. Then there was an old security guard @ Lacled Gas Co. on 41th & State St. shot and killed! It was a war zone even back in the 70's!! I have thought about why ESL became so Horrible, there are two main reasons, One, the Liberal Democrates politians, and two, the massive crimes and hate for white people that caused white people/business to leave. In closing I will say if it wasn't for my friend Shelby Graham, I wouldn't be alive today. He was a Black man who protected me from the thugs. I wonder if he is still living in ESL? GOD FORBID!

Joyce		13-Sep-2009 18:52
Denny Reynolds, we went to school together, I believe. I was born in 1953 and attended St. Elizabeth's until it closed, St. Joseph's, and St. Teresa's Academy before we moved to Belleville. We lived at 472 N. 23rd St. Arjay, I was interested in your comments about the "White Flight." We loved East St. Louis. Our neighbors (black and white) were the best. We played together, ate together sometimes, mourned together, and genuinely liked each other. We left East St. Louis out of necessity. It was the spring of '67 or '68 and there was growing racial unrest. Black Power was growing and angry activists (who had some legitimate complaints) instigated a lot of violence. My school was (STA) was vandalized, I was chased home from the grocery store (Dollars owned it on 22nd and Ridge), and a brick came through our bathroom window injuring my sister. Our nextdoor neighbors, the Browns', who were black, were also threatened. It was not an indiscriminate exodus because blacks lived there. It was our community and we loved it. It was very sad to leave, but my mother could not risk us being hurt or attacked. Blacks and whites were attacked. They were working to separate the races, we were not. Many whites stayed longer. Several years later, the Pfeiffers, for instance, were help hostage in their home. Luckily noone was killed. The Nersesians, who owned the cleaners on Louisiana, lost their son, Sammy, was shot and killed during a robbery. The facts are much more complex than you may realize. As far as the food is concerned. My dad was a butcher and, like you, we ate the scraps from and my Circle Packing...I don't really know what we ate, but my mother made it taste wonderful. My brothers still come to E. St. Louis for pig snouts. Please don't judge those who left. You may not have all the facts.

guest		12-Sep-2009 14:35
i grew up in edgemont and washington park, and it was a great place to grow up in ...dont blame white flight on the demise of these cities, blame it on lack ofjobs and education, but most of all, crooked politicians...iwould rather walk in downtown e. st louis than washington dc ( at least our mayor wasnt busted in a crack sting) have many good memories of these towns...graduated from Assumption in 81, and my years at assumption were the best of my life

Mike Sanders		10-Sep-2009 20:00
My mothers parents, both Lithuanian immigrants, came to ESL in 1927 from Chicago. They owned a corner tavern, and after my grandfather died, grandmother made bathtub gin to support her family. My Father's parents came to ESL from Mt Carmel IL in 1936. Grandfather was a boilermaker for the Southern Railroad, while grandmother stayed home to raise 10 children. Both families lived in several different houses in ESL. Some are still standing, and every time we come to the area, we make a "pilgimage" to the old homesteads. My mother met my father at the serviceman's club, where it was live at first sight. My sisters and I were all born in ESL. We moved to AZ in 1953 along with my mothers mom for health reasons, and because we were very cramped in our 3-room shotgun house on 8th Street. It is so sad to see the utter deterioration of all the area my parents and grandparents called home for so many years. All we have left are old movies and photos. I hope that some day, the"City of Champions" (as it says on the Welcome to ESL billboard) will find a way to Live a "Life more Abundantly."

Arjay Ratliff		09-Sep-2009 16:35
I see that my last post has been met with some opposition. That's good, because this topic is long overdue. First off if your going to make any type of comment you need to be armed with facts. I will not sign my name to any written matterial unless it can be substanciated. I emplore all that love ESL to delve into the history of our city! What you find may utterly shock you! Again I do not speak on any subjects without doing research. Let me help your research efforts by giving you some questions that can be pretty easily answered with just a little surface scratching. 1. What happened to all the civil funding? (Sanitation, Police, Fire, Street repair) 2. What happened to the once thriving business sector of ESL? #. What happened to ESL's over all economy? If you just start with those 3 questions a lot of ESL skeletons come falling out of the closet! I'm not trying to make anyone upset! If you do your research and get the truth then anger subsides and enlightenment prevails! In closing, I don't know how many of you are home owners. Of those of you who are, do you live in homes that are 60 to 80 years old? Now for those of you that own your home, how costly are your repairs? Well repairs on a house that is 60 to 80 years old (which over 90% of the houses in ESL are) can be difficult for someone making a decent living, and down right impossible for someone near at or below the poverty line! (85% of ESL is in that catagory and have been there for decades.)I don't know about you, but when I drive around in ESL the problems that I see are much more complicated than some fresh paint and cut grass!People WISH that were the only problems they had with their homes! And as for leaving because of lack of work. Over 95% of ESL residents work else where! This is all fudimental information that just goes by the way side. We have to know where East St. Louis came from before we can ever figure out where its going!

john gregorian		09-Sep-2009 04:30
Hello Carolyn Jentsch, and everyone else from ESL. Carolyn we may have been class mates. I was born in 1947, and attended Harding, and Clark Jr. High on 33rd and State street. Ms Easely was my 5th grade teacher, Mrs Compton my 6th. Some of my class mates I remember are Dennis Harris, John Rodman, David bauer, Bette Laws, Sherry Gardner (My true love). I remember Hannigans at about 80th and State, Moor's grill about 55th and state, and of course Custards last stand. Do you remember The Malt Shop (next to Clark), Velvet freeze, or Sam Lucas Confectionary (73rd st.)? I have so many great memories of those days, I would love to talk more to ESL folk about them. sign off John g

Guest		07-Sep-2009 22:59
My entire family is from east st.louis and continues to live their today at 23rd and state. I was born and raised there and I am proud to be from there.

Guest		06-Sep-2009 17:41
This brings back memories. My greatgrandmother and greatgrandfather bought land 50th and Bond ave. My grandmother lived her entire life there. My father went to Eatside. He and his father worked for Broadhead Motors. I was born at St Mary's in 1951. I grew up near the junctions of 157 and 163. For the 15 years of my life I lived in ESTL. It was later changed to mIllstadt, and we never even moved. My GGM and GGP were French. They lived in an area called "Frogtown". nw my grandmother's house is gone ,and the interstate is nera what was their backyard. My grandam had a large garden. She sold eggs and produce. My great uncle owned a store on Bond Ave. As a young adult, I worked at Broadhead Ford and Mixon Buick. I have fond memories of ESTL.

Guest		02-Sep-2009 23:43
Hello my people... I was born in East Saint Louis at Christian Welfare in 1951. I went to Holy Angels and Saint Teresa's...lived on 23rd street..... my house no longer exists but I have great memories Of Jones Park and CYO dances. Anybody remember Waghalters Drug Store and the IGA.. Why I even remember dancing about 6 feet away from Tina Turner at a dance at St. Martin of Tours.... Left a good job in the city... workin for the man every night and day....and the Admiral...cathy b

Richard		01-Sep-2009 15:46
Wow, I haven't been back in so long. I was born in St Louis in 56 and moved to East St Louis in 58 and went into the service in 73. We first liven in Rosemont on Hollows Ave accross from the Ohio Market and Greagrics candy store and later moved to 72nd street. I went to Wilson, Harding, Edgemont, back to Harding, Clark and then to Martin Luther King the first year it was open. I noticed a post by David Klopner, we had shop class together at King, Mr. Pain was the teacher but we called him peanut head. I still have fond memories of Jones's Park, swimming and fishing, Hanigans Drive In, going shopping down town at the Jupiter store. Ballcardbill I lived around the corner from you, I didnt go to that little 2 room school but my younger brother did. You remember Norris and the Pryors?

deborah		30-Aug-2009 14:02
I to was rasied in east st. louis all my life had very good child hood&teen years,I lived in the orr weathers high rise E-4building apt 201 my parents was James&Lena Otis whom both have pased on.I too am sadden to see what east st.louis has become today.Iwent to johnson elem.school&hugquinn school.i had much fun growing up in the orr weathers,we moved out of them in 1970 to north 18Th st.I Have so many fun memories of east st. louis,and bad memories as well,Mt home was broken in while me and my husband an kids where sleping,in the middle of the.when we relize what had happen we called the east st. louis police.they treated us like we were the criminals.that was enough for me then,I knew then that it was time to move,THE OFFICER THAT CAME OUT DID NOT EVEN TAKE A REPORT,he asked us was the back door left unlocked,he said he would see what he could do.east st louis has went down because of the none careing aldermans and they know who they are.I to still love east,and still call it my home.please post updated phots.de

Patty Buchanan		28-Aug-2009 15:13
This message is for Arjay Ratliff from Aug. 27, 2009. I, too, was born in East St Louis. I can't believe you said what it is today is because of "White Flight". All people leave the area when there are no more jobs. Both of my parents worked in ESTL. Mother a cook at Woolworths and father worked as a guard at Jones Park. Woolworhts closed and the park did not recieve funds. My father, a good hard working white man had to relocate because everyone in the area said he was to old to hire. He was 60. They moved from the area for employment which anyone would do no matter what their skin color. We didn't trash and run down the neighborhood before we moved. It was after we moved. (1972) I still love ESTL with all my heart and am so proud to say I am from there. It does not make any difference what color your skin is; you can take care of your property. If you can push a mower and put trash in a can and an ocassional paint job all will stay clean. So please don't blame "White Flight for the condition of ESTL. I have many black friends who I have stayed with when we were flooded and just because it was to late to drive home. I have many family memebers who I would not stay with AT ALL. So there are people of all races that are extremely hard workers and take care of things. Also, many of all races that are lazy filthy bums. You truly seem like an honest person who deeply cares about ESTL. I do as well. Born in 1954 at St. Marys. Went to Hawthorne; Landsdowne and good old E. Side.

George Mickens		28-Aug-2009 12:23
Hello all my name is George Mickens and although I was born in Detroit, all of my family is from East Boogie, the Baldwins, Meyers, Norman's, Edmonds, Jackson's and Mickens all hail from East St. Louis. Although I haven't been there since my grandfather George Mickens died in 1978, I'll always love my 2nd home no matter what. I have a lot of fond memories of my summers there especially skating at the Martin Luther King Skating Rink on 22nd st. and Broadway, my Aunt Daisy lived right across the street and my aunt Nancy lived next door. My cousins Hosea aka Zip, Marvin, Pete and I use to really tear up the rink in our day LOL.

Arjay Ratliff		27-Aug-2009 19:38
Hello! My name is Arjay Ratliff. I was born at Gateway Community Hospital on September 3rd 1974. At that time it was known as Christian Welfare Hospital. My mother was a LPN working for that very hospital as well as my father was a security guard at the facility. Along with his security duties he also drove cab in the city, as well as held a full time job at the meat packaging plants in nearby National City. I have been to just about every major city in this great United States and lived in a few. I have been researching the plight of the older urban areas of this country. My studies have brought me full circle, back to my home town East St. Louis! I must say that ESL is the worst and most complete example that I have seen of white flight and economic decline. It was once said "If you can't find a job in East St. Louis, you can't find one anywhere!" of course now it's the exact opposite! But, everyone always speaks of ESL as a waist land or even in the same context as the mythical lost city of Atlantis. If you can look past all the debris, overgrown lots and uncollected garbage, one can see the beautiful vision that our forefathers concieved. Now just as in every part of "American History" when "African Americans" were involved, we always got the scraps and left overs. Well ESL is again a gleeming example of the mentality "It's broken and we don't wamt it anymore! Give it to the N words" Sad but none the less true. The entire "African American" culture was forged from this very premise. Look at our traditional "Soul Food" All derived from what were effectivly throw awy items! Parts of the Pig or Cow that were considered less desirable. Foliage left over from a harvest! (Greens) These things had to be heavily seasoned in order to be eaten. But yet are sought after by all races! I'm giving you all this little History lesson, this AMERICAN HISTORY lesson to help change your mentality and thinking about the city and people of ESL. In all actuallity it's a american SUCCESS story! A time capsule if you will. My fellow modern day East St. Louisans are simply working with the sraps that they were left with, some for 50yrs or more. Some Can't leave while many others choose not to leave. Your home is your home no matter what condition you find it! So who ever reads this, black, white, red, yellow, plaid. I don't want you to feel sorry for the hearty city of East St.Louis I want you to be proud of us! Because after all the misfortune that has been heaped upon our broad sholders, there is one thing that we will shout loud to the heavens "WE ARE STILL HERE, AND WE AIN'T GOING NOWHERE! NO MATTER HOW MUCH YOU WRITE US OFF OR LOOK DOWN ON US!" No other city in the US can say that. We are called the city of champions for a reason! Everyone who is still alive and kicking and still calling ESL their home are the Champions! Please don't get offended by my words. I feel it's time for someone to defend this beautiful, ugly city! In closing I would like to say that I love East Saint Louis, past, present, future, FOREVER! Thank you.

onlyme49		22-Aug-2009 15:01
Does anyone remember the Hi-Lo grocery store at 26th and Missouri Ave. They had some of the best donuts in the early morning and also ice cream. There are to many memories that I have of East St. Louis. It is still my home even though I have been away from there over 40 years. I usually go back to a funeral of someone that I know back then. I live on Missouri Avenue next door to the Saversons on one side and the Davis family on the other side. Ms. Perkins had the best candy apples. Mrs. Reese made the best popcorn at Crispus Attucks. You could leave your door ope at night and would not have to worry about anyone coming in. We use to play hop-scotch on the side and jump double-dutch rope. There was a woman name Ms. Euella who would take us fishing all day. Maggie Montgomery would do our hair for Easter. There are so many fond memories of this place when I was growing up there. The park at 24th and Gaty where we would go an swing all day.

Skippy		21-Aug-2009 17:34
I was born in ESL in 1939 at Christian Welfare Hospital, attended Longfellow Grade School, and Rock Jr. High before moving to Belleville in 1953. I was graduated from Belleville Toenship High School in June 1957 and joined the Navy in September. I was always proud to say I was from ESL. However, years later when ESL became a haven for criminals and developed a bad reputation, I said I was from Belleville. I was living in the Samuel Gompers Apartments on 5th & Ohio Avenue across from the Mound House Tavern. Anyone of you who were in or around that area in those days I would like to correspond with for old times sake. I was graduated from the U. S. Naval Academy in 1965, took a commission in the Marine Corps, served two tours in Vietnam, and retired from the Corps in 1987. I moved to the Washington, DC area, and lived in Alexandria, VA before retiring from my civilian job, and moved to Florida. I have fond memories of the Majestic Theater, the Avenue Theater, the Playdium bowling alley, Hoods confectionary, Eddie's Market, Labor Day Parades at Jones Park, etc.

Bill Yakstis		20-Aug-2009 22:01
This post is meant for Donald M Weeks who posted a message in 2007. You mentioned Loraine LaChance. She was the organist at St. Patrick's when I attended there from 1957 to 1964. I started attending services there again in 2005 until the Diocese consolidated it with 2 other East St. Louis Parishes. The funny thing was... Loraine LaChance was STILL the organist and still lives in the same house within a block of the Church! I was working with her on a history of the Parish a few years ago. I'm sure she would be thrilled if you contacted her.

Johnjohn		17-Aug-2009 20:36
I too was born in Christian Welfare Hospital and I have to say the last time I was home was a sad Occasion. My oldest son, who was serving our country passed away. I have great memories growing up in the center of the city at 18th and Martin Luther King Dr. I remember the Baileys store right across the street and the ice cream on Sunday. I remember snoots...lol... and...shrimp st pauls. I have not been anywhere that or Krugers gooey butter cakes. I went to Monroe, Rock, Lansdowne, E Side, and State Comm College. E Saint gave me some strength that I could not have gotten anywhere else. One day I hope to go back home and tell my story from there to where I am today. Thanks East Boogie..john-john

Diana Steele-Cole		12-Aug-2009 03:58
Hello All, I was born at Christian Welfare in 1953. My family lived at 35th and State,Clark Jr. High was our backyard! My grandparents and uncle and aunt lived across the street. My siblings and I attended Park School. Would love to picture of that. Also attended the First Baptist Church across from the old Sears store. My dad worked at Sears. Sometimes during the Christmas season, my mom would work at the Union Clothing Store. She grew up in Washington Park. While my dad was in the service she lived in the Roosevelt Homes. I have fond memories of ESL. Would like to hear from anyone who attended Park from 1959 to 1963. We moved to Belleville ca 1964.

Casillas		02-Aug-2009 15:53
I was born at Christian Welfare...I grew up in East St Louis.I went to Jefferson School and Landsdown Jr High 60s-1973. A lot of good memories and friends.. East St Louis made me who I am today and of course my parents!!The best of Luck to everyone from E St Louis..

Pat		30-Jul-2009 17:02
Hi Carla. You may know my mother. She also graduated from Lincoln High School around that time. Belinda Myles

Guest		30-Jul-2009 02:10
To John Gender....Didn't you take elocution lessons on 37th street...I recall a recitation about a big bear.

carla		29-Jul-2009 14:42
Hello everyone in east boogie( smile) iam a product of east st louise Ill. and very proud, i graduated from Lincoln sr high in 1979. I attended East side, Rock jr high and my family still lives there today. Regardless of how it may seem we all have fond memerize to tell and a lot of good people have come out of East st louis Ill. I Pray that God looks down on this city as well as others and that as a people we start putting positivitie in the mouths of anyone speaking on East St. Louis. One person sad it clear all city's have an East st louis in it. I need only say thank god for my upbringing there, and ill always pray for and be a part of east st louis much much love love

Mary		28-Jul-2009 06:31
Hello to all! I was born at St Mary's Hospital in 1953. My twin brother and I made the front page of The Metro East Journal that week, because of the fact 3 sets of twins were born that week at the hospital. That was such an event back then. We lived in the Lansdowne area, then in the 1700 block of 43rd. Went to school at Holy Angels (graduate of 67) and then St Teresa Academy, (graduate of 71). Worked at the W T Grant store on State Street before being transferred to Zion Illinois. We also lived at 40th and Caseyville, next door to the Eisele's who ran the local drug store. Road the bus numerous times to St Louis and back, without incident, while working my way through high school. Worked at Woolworth's in downtown St Louis, across the street from Stix, Baer and Fuller department store. We played at Jones Park and my dad was an usher at the Majestic when he met my mom. Many great memories. Neiderer's Dairy on Caseyville Avenue was my first job. Live just south of Seattle now, but have seen Germany, Great Britain, Switzerland, all across the United States. East St Louis will always hold a special place in my heart.

Pat		27-Jul-2009 22:20
Thanks Barbra. I really appreciate your compliments. I'm too looking to leave the DC area very soon. The cost of living is too dang high here...lol But I'm greatful. Take Care

Barbara		26-Jul-2009 14:21
To Pat, I'm glad you told us about yourself. It's good for East St Louisans to let people know we have made accompliments. I don't know you, but I'm proud of you. You are just another person who can show people that there is still productive people coming from East St. I left Washingon DC/Maryland in 2007. I visit East Staint every chance I get.

Pat