Otto Goodman

My connection to the West End began when we moved here in 1965 to the Stanley Row Houses at 1652 Lock Street from Panama City Beach, Florida. That was a very exciting time. I went to Sands Elementary. There was a big Catholic church right next to the school—very helpful. I also remember the Neighborhood House, but we mostly went to that church.

Everyone in this photo should be about 63 years old now, just like me. This is the kindergarten class of 1965. They’ve since turned the building into apartments, but the coat rooms are still there. If you’ve ever been inside, it still looks like the classrooms. It's a beautiful building.

The West End always felt like a place I belonged. Even though I left and went on to attend Row Hill, Aiken, and even college, I moved back here and now I’m living here again. It feels like I’ve come full circle—like this is where I’m supposed to be. It’s really good to be back.

To me, the West End is a place of comfort. It’s also a place of names and stories, but more than that, it’s a place of solace and friendships. I feel special here because of my friends, the camaraderie, and the rich history. The West End has a truly rich history.