Our Block! Life was Sweet but I didn't know it.

I grew up on Bay 25th Street, 1/2 block from the elevator train, or "el" train as we called it. The block was tree-lined and filled with private houses and two large apartment buildings. We lived smack in the middle of the block.
Memories include playing slap ball on the corner and the boys playing stick ball in the street. If the ball hit the "el" train, it was a home run.

Life was sweet but kids do not realize what they have, so I don't think I was any different.
The block was full of Italian families and lots of kids of all ages. I had three siblings and we each chummed around with our own friends. There were a few families of different backgrounds but we made friends with whoever lived there. I had a friend who's family was from Ecuador and we loved to hear her mother speak her native language. 86 Street, where the train ran over, was a commercial street and that is where you did your shopping including the meat store and the fish store, the open markets and Ebingers Bakery. Ebingers is a name that brings sweet memories to those if us who have had their blackout cake and mocha butter cream cake. Yummy!!! There was Howie's Pet shop so wonderfully close to this animal lovers home and I didn't have to cross the street to go there and watch the fish and turtles and birds. I often would bring home injured birds and try to convince Mom that I could make it better and keep it as a pet. She knew better.
New Years and Block Parties were exciting times. Neighbors would join in the fun, cooking, dancing to a DJ's music and celebrating life.

Well, the trees are all gone and newer ones are being raised there now. Newer trees, newer families with new kids and making their own memories.
More to follow.......
Link to Photos

Bensonhurst- Then and Now

It's wonderful to have memories of a happy childhood, living in a neighborhood that was as comfortable as your own home.

But life moves ever forward and change is a constant thing.

I hope to document the place of my past and show the cultural diversity, some of which always existed and some of which are new. I hope the photos alone can capture the changes and also capture the feel of the neighborhood.

(Above) My Nonnie

I'm always being told that change is a good thing. We shall see.
I'm asking for contributions to this site. Please leave comments about your experience in Bensonhurst, good, bad or indifferent. You will not only be helping me to focus on key points but I think it would be a fun experience.

Thanks..... Terie