Russell, James

Date:
2012-02-15
Length:
95 min.
Interviewer:
Pace, Mary
Transcription available:
no
Series:
Sheppard Square Oral History Project
Series ID:
2014_044
Interview Number(s):
2012_44_12
Summary:
Covers Russell's remembrances of living in Sheppard Square, focusing on his childhood through adolescence. He shares overwhlemingly positive memories of his experiences at Sheppard Square, giving particular praise to adults in the community, including Sheppard Square residents, area businessmen, neighborhood churches, and mentors at the Grace Community Center. He felt cared for, nourished, protected, and happy as a child. He recalls noticing a change in the neighborhood upon his return in 1972, including fewer children participating in organized activities, single-family homes, and vandalism. Russell talks about a major shift in the residency population taking place in the 1980s when long-time residents moved out. Russell is saddened by the demolition of his childhood home.
Topic(s):
Sheppard Square (Housing project : Louisville, Ky.), Louisville Metropolitan Housing Authority (Louisville, Ky.), Smoketown (Louisville, Ky.), African American neighborhoods � Kentucky � Louisville, Presbyterian Community Center (Louisville, Ky.), Childhood development, Public housing � Kentucky � Louisville, Housing authorities � Kentucky � Louisville