Submitted by Gregory T. Gantt, Jul 7, 2007 00:04

I remember growing up in St. Albans on 194th St. and 116th Ave in the mid 60's. My parents and I lived in a 3 Story house with my Aunt and Uncle. As a child, I remember riding with my parents up Linden Blvd. across Farmers Blvd. toward Merrick Blvd.. I remember my parents would point the homes of famous black people such as Count Basie and James Brown. I remember thinking these were the most beautiful homes I had ever seen and the thought of these homes being owned by black folks seemed amazing to me. My aunt lived farther up LInden on 167th St. heading toward New York Blvd. (Guy Brewer Blvd. today). James Brown would ride through her neighborhood passing out free records and money. At that time I thought it was normal, but as I reflect it was really something special. As I grew older, I began to appreciate the rich history of St. Albans and Addisleigh Park. The Entire world is aware of the rich history of Harlem. I think St. Albans has it's place in the history of New Yorkers too. I wish there was a way to go back in time and let people see and feel the sense of self and sense of belonging I developed in those formulative years growing up in St. Albans. Now that was a neighborhood!! Linden Blvd. vibrant with thriving black businesses that had been in business for years. Everyone in the neighborhood knew each other and looked out for one another. I can remember riding the Q-4 to school each morning and the bus driver looking out for me. I have resided in Atlanta, Ga for over 10 years raising my family. I tell folks down here all the time that before Atlanta there was ST. ALBANS, NY. There could never be enough literature and documented history about this historical community. Let's do what we can before people stop talking about it. Don't let the history die it's far too rich. This community was ahead of it's time and today could still be used as a model for other neighborhoods to strive for.

Greg Gantt proud to be from St. Albans

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