In the 1940s and '50s, the neighborhood was composed of blue-collar families who worked at Boeing, Bethlehem Steel and the shipyards. Many worshiped at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, a Junction parish since 1909 and the second-largest in Seattle. Father Jeffrey Sarkies says the parish school is growing so much, it is doubling every grade. He has watched his congregation shift from senior citizens to young families. When a fire damaged the church last year, neighbors immediately volunteered their help.
People tend to move into West Seattle but never out.
Once you've been here, this is home. Today, the cheaper rents, spectacular views and quirky, small-town charm have lured young families and professionals. It's younger and more affluent. At Shafran's clothing store, owner Leon Capelouto has started carrying leather jackets and clothes for a younger clientele. And it's already happening.