In the spring of 2018, I visited Centralia for the first time to view some properties. After immigrating to California from Scotland in 1983, it was seriously time to move on and seek a home that offers a better quality of life.
My decision to live in Centralia was due to the similarity of the small town I grow up in Scotland. I could relate to Centralia and its trades people and business owners with ease. It’s a pleasure to go shopping and interact with Centralia’s citizens and listen to their stories.
Regardless of the unpredictable weather, I pursued the opportunity to view houses with the intent to purchase. I found a charming Craftsman house and purchased it. This is my “first-ever” home purchase after working in the U.S. for 35 years.
The home seemed somewhat uncared for and had passed hands to many tenants with apparently a remote homeowner. Because I love to revamp anything that’s neglected and make it beautiful again, this home was the perfect choice for me. I could see lots of potential with this small house, and I realized with some elbow grease and the power of positive energy it would be its splendid self again, in time.
On my next visit to Centralia during Memorial Day weekend, my friend and I strolled through the downtown area. I half expected to see tumbleweeds rolling through the streets (just like you see in the old western movies). Downtown appeared deserted, shabby and neglected with cracks here and there, and I thought it was much in need of restoration work and a vigorous power wash.
The city’s buildings appear to have taken a battering over the years, but within, and behind the cracks and crevices, there are remarkable people. I questioned how the shops maintain opening their doors due to the lack of direct road access, one-way streets and minimal parking. I found access to downtown challenging via Mellen Street from the nearby hotel.
Once moved in, the city further extends its energy and eagerness to help you get on track with your life, and it offers community outreach services. Its customer service is outstanding in the public and private areas. There are many resources and services made possible through outreach programs provided in the community by various churches, nonprofit companies with angel contributors, charities and support from local businesses and associations.
Centralia offers a working class environment where tradespeople can be proud to be a Centralian. After all, its tradespeople keep the city moving forward by providing public services, which make it possible for business owners, companies, schools, healthcare and other services to open their doors. We need tradespeople to provide a sound infrastructure. The biggest resource of any business and/or city is its people!
Finally, sincere thanks to all of the benevolent acts of the little city with the big heart, Centralia!
Elizabeth Victoria Cameron
Centralia
