An interesting discussion between Waterways and Ged! However, I must say there was a strong sense of community within the tenement blocks. Everybody knew everybody, and that was a powerful commodity when you were a kid. The neighbours knew your mother, and as a result there was no back chat and a lot of respect (unlike the anonomous hoodie sketch that we have today). From someone who lived within the tenements I can see how 'outsiders' could feel threatend as they entered the 'colluseum' of the tenements. I lived in the one in Christian Street, so there could be a perception of Christians to the lions!
They were full of characters, and proud people who had limited income. Are there any characters in the street where you live? Unfortunately, pride has now been swapped for competition.
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My mam moved from the tenements to a brand new lovely semi detatched with a front and back garden, she hated it. She longed for the days of standing on the landing watching the kids play in the square (cheap entertainment). There was always someone walking past your house who would stop and have a chat. Surprising, she felt more isolated in the semi than she ever did living in the flats.
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