History Lesson

One of the aspects that I find fascinating about where I live is the mix of socioeconomic classes. As I have described before, on one end of my block there is an upscale market and restaurant, which has Tuesday night jazz and sells white truffle oil. On the other end is a falling down Mexican restaurant that takes food stamps. Often, homeless individuals are walking side-by-side with individuals dressed in couture whose shoes cost more than the homeless person's cart of all their worldly possessions. According to the video, the mix of socioeconomic classes is nothing new for Main Street. It has always been a beautiful bouquet of posh and gritty.

YouTube Video: History of Los Angeles - Main Street

After seeing an abundance of blatant crack smoking and sex in our alley, I was slightly concerned about personal safety. Apparently, this is nothing new for the area. The problem dates back to the 1890s. Looking up the statistics for the present day, the only violent crimes in the area are related to drugs or gangs. There were no random acts of violence. So, as long as I do not get involved in a gang or get into selling crack, there is no need to worry. Further, according to the video, it looks like the murder rate has gone way down since the 1890s. So that is a plus.

The video also described how Main Street was filled with theaters, vaudeville, burlesque houses and pay by the hour hotels (at which point they show the Cecil Hotel, which is next store to our building). I do not think we need the prostitution to return, because there are enough free shows around Pantless Alley.  But, I think burlesque is back in vogue? Perhaps that is what needs to be brought back to Main Street. Very tempting since physical labor and getting a work out in at work seems like an improvement over being a lawyer. Plus, I would not have to wear a suit. 

Ms. Sheehan performing  at the ‘Larry Potter Supper Club’ in Los Angeles.