George Atkinson, 96-year-old lifelong Beaconite

George Atkinson still lives in the same house on Locust Place where he was born in 1927. In this episode he shares memories and historical anecdotes spanning nine decades, recounting the city’s changes through the Great Depression, World War 2, the economic doldrums of the 70s and 80s, and eventual renaissance.

Among other memories, George recalls the factories that employed his father and brothers, two plane crashes on Mt. Beacon that shocked city residents, how it felt to ride the old incline railway and more. And he grapples with the meaning of “progress” as Beacon absorbs new residents and revenues. A must-listen for any fan of local history.