<p>James Starks developed his musical talents at Sands Elementary School, Lafayette Bloom Junior High School, and Taft High School. During most of his time in the West End, he lived with his family on Wilstach St., which was slated for redevelopment in the 60's.</p><p>If you or someone you know lived or spent a significant amount of time in the West End, please consider sharing your story. Call 513-369-6900 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:westend@cincinnatilibrary.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">westend@cincinnatilibrary.org</a>&nbsp;for more information.</p>

Preview: Fannie Shaw

The West End Stories Project captures the experiences of individuals who lived in Cincinnati's West End during the second half of the 20th century for urbanites today who want to know more about the neighborhood’s transformation. 

Cincinnati’s West End was once a vibrant community full of people, opportunities, and excitement. But due to urban renewal projects in the 1950s, the historic West End was largely razed for the creation of interstate I-75 and housing projects. This, combined with segregation, white flight, and redlining decimated this predominantly Black community, and the community still hasn’t recovered. Today, gentrification and other development projects are forcing many longtime residents out of the neighborhood again.  
 
If you or someone you know lived or spent a significant amount of time in the West End, please consider sharing your story. Contact Keloni Parks, host of the show and manager of the West End Branch, at 513-369-6900 or email westend@CHPL.org for more information.