Taking the Neighbor Out of Neighborhoods

Having just recently returned to my childhood neighborhood in Baltimore, I couldn't help but notice how much things have changed since I left. Growing up in the early 60's, I recall a much different neighborhood. Back then, much of Baltimore consisted of poor working class neighborhoods that were self contained units. In each neighborhood, you could usually find several schools, corner grocery stores, bakery, drug store, doctors, dentists, diners, and a bar on every corner. What you couldn't buy at the local store was brought to you by A-rabs(people that delivered produce and other items on a horse and cart) and other industrious merchants. There were also many large businesses that provided employment for the working class people that lived in Southwest Baltimore. View the rest of this article