A NEW HAMPSHIRE FILM FESTIVAL FEATURE
Focused on local history compiled and produced by local members of the community, the film chronicles the close-knit, working-class, primarily Italian neighborhood in Portsmouth, NH, targeted by Urban Renewal in the late 1960s. It also traces the resilience and character of its former residents, who, despite their displacement, managed to salvage their community traditions, culture and friendships. The 30-acre North End enclave was demolished through the Vaughan Street Urban Renewal Project, the last Urban Renewal program in America, igniting the rise of historic preservation, rather than demolition, of historic structures and neighborhoods.

The foundation of the film features interviews with residents who lived in the demolition zone. They detail the close bonds of neighbors, the importance of family and work, and the devastating effects following the destruction of hundreds of homes and businesses. Many of the structures in the neighborhood were architecturally important, though only a small fraction was saved when they were moved out of the district, sold to new owners, and over time, restored.

Viewers will also learn about the intent and unintended effects of the federal, post-World War II Urban Renewal program that lasted 25 years. In his directorial debut, New Hampshire resident Scott Maclin worked with producers Laura Pope, Massimo Morgia, and Robyn Aldo as well as Julie Gagne who conducts the interviews in the film, narrates the introduction, and with Pope, shares screenwriting credits.

‘NR’ 55min

Not yet a member? View the benefits. Join now!