Westwood’s Old Town

Westwood's Old Town. Courtesy of Hank Martinez
Westwood’s Old Town. Courtesy of Hank Martinez

In reality, Westwood had two distinct communities—the town proper and the neighborhood on the other side of the millpond. Mill B and the initial housing quarters were constructed on the east bank of Robbers Creek. All of the permanent facilities, including Mill A and the town proper were built on the west bank. The older community had been referred with several designations. In the early years, some called it Oakland, others Baytown. Whatever the case may be, residents of Westwood stated it was where the “foreigners” lived—mainly Italians and Mexicans. References in a pre-politically correct era dubbed the place Dago Town. Eventually, using a less derogatory tone it evolved into Old Town—being the original location of Westwood.

In the summer of 1943, a contest was held to rename Old Town. Thirty-nine people suggested ninety-two names. The new name selected was Pine Town submitted by Roger Mentick who received a $15 prize in War Savings Stamps.

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