West End stories connect youth to past

Vancouver’s West End was a different place than today when Gary Pennington, 77, grew up. He remembers fewer apartment buildings, more houses and playing on the streets with friends until late in the evening.

About a year and half ago, Pennington launched the West End Memories project. He wanted to combine his stories with those of other neighbourhood kids.

He’s collected more than one hundred stories and even more photos from residents both young and old. Now he’s working on a book that he hopes to launch in time for the King George High School centennial celebration this fall.

He is also planning a “living” website where people can continue to contribute stories.