Remembering Linda Pollin
Well, although Mr. Pollin passed away back in 2009, I would still like to thank him for building the "LP" as we used to call it. When I became old enough to learn that it was built by Mr. Pollin to honor his daughter, I sometimes felt bad. I felt bad because of what Linda Pollin Projects became in the early 80s and throughout the 1990s. It was part of Washington's pandemic of crime, murder, and drugs. It also became quite a quandary for the Washington, D.C. police department in trying to apprehend suspects. There were so many buildings, rooftops, and back hallways that suspects always had a chance to get away. The LP Memorial Housing Project became a cesspool of debauchery and criminal activities; it was also a favorite subject on the 5 O'clock News.
Nevertheless, it was home and I do have some fond memories of the place. I think that Mr. Pollin's initial gesture was well received, but nothing last forever. Eventually, the symptoms of poverty and substance abuse would surface and thwart those divine intentions. Well, thanks again Mr. Pollin and please understand that LP was at one time a good place to live, and although it has been torn down and erased from sight, it will never be erased from the memory of so many families who grew up in old LP. Peace~
Note: Find out more about Linda Pollin Projects and Abe Pollin by watching the above YouTube video.
Article on subject: Pollin's generosity...
Note: Find out more about Linda Pollin Projects and Abe Pollin by watching the above YouTube video.
Article on subject: Pollin's generosity...
Comments
I used to hear about 'the projects' and didn't know what they were about. Then I started reading, but mostly only negative things...yet every now and then, I'd read of someone who's done well, and someone good, who grew up in the projects. You're one of the good, Stephen.
In the end, it's so easy to be me because I don't have to think about what to say and how to act. Thanks again, GG! You're a good sister and you are so encouraging. One day, I wish to sit down with you and have a nice beverage. Oh, and some little snack. :)
I am much younger than you I assume. I just wanted to say thank you for writing this post. I was kid growing up in the late 80's in to the 90's. I have copious amounts of memories. Growing up and playing stick ball in Linda Pollin. I wonder did you ever know a Margie Benefield, as a kid? She was my Grandmother. Anyway thanks again.
Thanks for posting something on Linda Pollin Memorial Housing project!
A large portion of my childhood was spent living in Linda Pollin. My family lived (1970-1979) in 811. Our building was on the last row that faced the alley to Southern Ave.
Great '70s memories of LP. The Rec center used to show Bruce Lee movies on the weekends during the Summer. The swimming pool really was a major hangout. The parking lot area behind 813 & 823 was where kick ball would be played.
Hopscotch and four corners was played on the concrete walkway in front of buildings 811 & 813. The laundry rooms in the basements of just about every building were open and running. In later years, the laundry rooms were kept locked to deter thieves from getting the coins out of the washer & dryer coin boxes. "Nasty Nelson" was spray painted on some of walls. Nelson was a teen player who infamous for making out with fast teenage girls in those basements.
It really was a safe community during the '70s before Crack took over. Several scenes from Spike Lee's movie, "Crooklyn" is how I remember Linda Pollin during the summer.
Alot of the residents from the time we lived there were working to get out to PG County (Suitland, Marlow Heights, District Hgts. etc) My mother got us a house in Capitol Heights in late '79. I still came back to see my friends during the early '80s. Signs of neglect were just starting to show. In 1997, I was able to see the whole complex fenced in just before it was demolished.
story must end.