My family and I would like to share our impressions of a recent visit to Auburn, my old home town.
What great changes have occurred — most for the better. Urban renewal has eliminated many buildings I knew, including the old Auburn Theater. But unlike many communities in New England, many buildings were preserved, such as the Goff Block and some shoe factories for housing.
We were impressed with the new hotels and restaurants (one right next to the river), and others not far away on Turner Street. And, of course, there is the Androscoggin River which, growing up, resembled a foul-smelling, flowing, sudsy bathtub. Now, enhanced by the beautiful river walk, it appears much cleaner and even inviting. The past odors seem to have disappeared. What great potential for recreation the river is. In the 1950s, I never dreamed that was possible.
The view at night of the illuminated Lewiston City Hall tower and the spires of the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul are beautiful.
Local residents may take them for granted, but visitors like us are impressed.
Auburn should be proud of what it has accomplished since the 1950s, and I believe my father, former Mayor John Marshall, would agree.
Thomas Marshall, Wallingford, Conn.
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