Growing up on Rockrose Ave in the 1970s and 1980s was a defining experience. My mother and grandmother moved to the Park Circle community in the late 1960s, with my grandmother residing there until the mid-1990s.

My sister and I were raised in what was then referred to as a "broken home" by social standards, yet the reality was far from that. Our upbringing was enriched by the unwavering support and guidance of our mom, dad, and grandmother.

Rockrose Ave was more than just a neighborhood; it was a haven. It was a vibrant community, alive with the sounds of children playing and parents nurturing. I vividly recall telling my mother that I didn't want to move until I was 18, believing it would mark the beginning of a new chapter in life.

Like many neighborhoods, Rockrose Ave has experienced changes and challenges over the generations. Today, it no longer mirrors the place of my childhood. Occasionally, social media posts unfairly criticize the community, overlooking its rich history. However, steadfast residents continue to work tirelessly to revitalize and preserve the community.

Regardless of where life has taken me, Rockrose Ave remains my 'home.' No other place holds the same level of importance. My mother and grandmother, the unsung curators of our family history, captured our lives through photographs, creating a visual memoir of the 1970s and 1980s.

Through a blend of family photographs, contemporary images, and short films, RockRose Stories presents a personal narrative of growing up in this West Baltimore neighborhood. While some stories may predate my own experiences, their significance remains timeless.

RockRose Stories pays tribute to the rich culture of the Park Circle community and its iconic landmarks. Ultimately, it is a testament to the enduring value of family and friends and the profound impact of vibrant, safe communities.

Clinton aka “Junie”