Browse our New Oral Histories

Lois Wilcox Curran

In this lively interview, Lois Wilcox Curran, born on Indian Queen Lane in 1932, shares memories of Falls Methodist Church, Plush Hill, Mifflin School, local stores, holiday celebrations, Bessie Dobson Altemus, and the local tunnels that she explored.

Ellen Sheehan

Ellen Sheehan, the daughter and granddaughter of East Falls florists, grew up on Indian Queen Lane.  Ellen shares her memories of Laurel Hill, St. Bridget, Ravenhill, Old Academy, the Kellys, and the formation of the EFHS.

Sister Dorothy

Sister Dorothy, a lifelong Fallser and St. Bridget parishioner, describes her journey becoming a nun and a teacher at St. Bridget School.  A natural storyteller, she relates memories of old East Falls – Gustine Lake, Alden Theater, Hohenadel Brewery, the Kellys, and local stores.

Mary Ousey

Born in 1928 in her house on Conrad Street, Mary, a nurse, recalls her 55 years in Falls, with vivid descriptions of St. Bridget, the Kellys, Bessie Dobson, Breck School, local hucksters, and Falls before it was developed.

Marie Boyle

Marie Boyle, a lifetime Fallser, grew up on Bowman Street; later, she and her husband George bought the house next door to her parents where they raised six children. Marie shares memories of her life in “The Falls, focusing on St. Bridget School and Church, and working at MCP.

Dr. Earl Ball

Head of School at Penn Charter from 1976 – 2007, Dr. Earl Ball discusses his challenges, achievements, and memories of his years there.

Franz Ostertag

 Franz Ostertag (b. 1944) reminisces about growing up on Calumet Street, playing around the neighborhood, attending St. Bridget Church and School, and working at McDevitt Recreation Center.

Another Oral History soon!

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