Oral history interview with Charles Walker by Michelle F. Treat conducted 04/24/1991. Long-time resident Charles Walker reflects back on thirty years of Hilltop history and describes the areas shifting demographics during the 1960s, 70s, and 80s. A retired businessman, Walker focuses in particular on the K Street Business District and the local economic impact of the 1970s recession. He also comments on his work with the Tacoma Urban League, the Black Businessmen's Association, and the Now, Mr. Lincoln program.

Back of Photo:
Trying to keep 'K' Street safe, Morris McCollum, President of 'K' Street Boosters, far left, has customers and passers-by sign a petition to keep the Hilltop patrolled by the same officers on the crime management team task force for 'K' Street.
Pictured, from left, are McCollum, Diaetta Walker, Henrietta George, Mary Radziski, manager of New Look Clothing on 'K' Street, and Virginia Taylor. The children are Lashwanda Walker, 19 months, in stroller, and Lapaschia Walker, 4-years-old. Both are daughter of Diaetta Walker. They want the streets kept safe so they can shop and let their kids play in the area. (photo by David Brandt)

Back of Photo:
Four-year-old Rochelle Atkins plays with a hula hoop at the People's Center playground on S. 15th and K Streets.
K Street Story -- Amy Kunhardt

Taken for the Tacoma News Tribune article titled, "K Street Kids" Aug 19, 1988, Fri p.C1 (see "Hilltop Neighborhood 1988-1992"clipping file)

Back of Photo:
Her doll accompanies Aisha Bell most days as the 5-year-old plays in the S. 15th Street neighborhood.
K Street Story -- Amy Kunhardt

Taken for the Tacoma News Tribune article titled, "K Street Kids" Aug 19, 1988, Fri p.C1 (see "Hilltop Neighborhood 1988-1992"clipping file)

Back of Photo:
A Sad But Hopeful Look.....Pastor Lynn Farnum (Trinity Presbyterian Church), no stranger to the life on Tacoma's Hilltop and the plight of its children, gives a thoughtful glance down a stretch of streets on the Hill today as she joined a concerned group of local pastors and church leaders who briefly toured the area following a press conference they called to express concern and call attention to the Children's Initiative which they support. In the background (right arm raised) another spokesperson for the group, Rev. Dave Alger (Ex. Director of Associated Ministries) explains the sights to other members of the group.
News/Callahan
Geff Hinds Photo

Back of Photo:
On his way to his aunt's apartment complex for a swim in the pool there, 7-year-old Ken Posey ("Cool Papa") leads Corey Bell, 8 (left rear) -- Ken's uncle -- and Errol Mares, 8, on a shortcut. In background, at corner of S. 15th and M Streets, stands brown apartment house, a former crack house now boarded up by police.
K Street Story -- Amy Kunhardt

Taken for the Tacoma News Tribune article titled, "K Street Kids" Aug 19, 1988, Fri p.C1 (see "Hilltop Neighborhood 1988-1992"clipping file)

Back of Photo:
This building at the corner of 19th and K is being offered for sale as a site for an Arco Convenience store.
News/Martin
Bill Hunter Photo