Tina Thomas

Enjoyed reading this, fun, interesting and informative article

I have lived in Chester County all of my life and was not aware of some of these historical location. So glad to be reminded of all the locations that enrich our county. Thank you

I believe Witness also filmed at the Parkesburg train station.

I feel much the same way, Erin. I was born in the old Coatesville Hospital. I went to kindergarten at Terry Elementary School, walked to St Cecilia’s starting in First Grade until my parents moved to East Fallowfield Township. I ultimately graduated from CASH.

I remember a city that had its rough areas but was very walkable. When I was young, a big treat was when my Aunt would take me to Hennessy’s Pharmacy for milkshakes. I must really sound like an old fart.

Yet, everyone I know has basically moved out of the City, either out to the townships or to other areas altogether. There are many reasons why. But, I believe the flight of working-class and middle-class people, more than anything, is what has brought Coatesville to its knees. Maybe if the American steel industry didn’t shrink… maybe if the City had not accepted the projects back in the day… maybe this or maybe that. Regardless, the net result is a City with few opportunities, high crime and poverty, and in serious need of real investment.

Erin, I know exactly the area your living. My grandparents (in their 90s) live around there… not Coatesville proper, but just a bit over the line. When I moved out on my own, I rented in West End… S. Church St (aka Honky Hill). I had a beautiful view of Lukens. lol But, I moved to Parkesburg after a met my wife and we decided to buy a house.

Your assessment of Coatesville’s bad reputation is not too far off the mark. The mindset is not so bad in Parkesburg, but I have often described the more rural surrounding townships out here as a little too tribal and a little too white. In fact, not too long ago had a conversation with a person upset about teenagers just walking around… teens who “looked like they could be from Coatesville and up to no good.” If that is not coded language, I don’t know what is.

However, it doesn’t help that a busy month for the Parkesburg Police Department is a slow Tuesday for Coatesville. The City is a much rougher town than when I was coming up. It almost feels like the town is Chester County’s dumping ground. When I was a kid (I’m talking 6 and 7) I walked to my friends’ houses, to school, to the Steel City Deli and Smitty’s Store, and to my paternal Grandmother’s (which was right on main). I don’t think I would feel safe letting my kids do that today.

I have been exploring Hibernia for 40 years. In fact, I was just there yesterday, 3/25/18, with a group of people I exercise with. I was telling them how much the park had grown and changed in my years spent there. I highly recommend visiting. You will not be disappointed.

One of my fondest memories, from my youth, was participating in Dark in the Park. That was a great event around Halloween.