“Home,” they say, “is where the heart is.” But what makes a place truly home? Right here we are at Nickerson Gardens. This is more than just buildings. It is a community with a history.
Nickerson Gardens first opened in March 1954. Even though construction was still going on, people were already moving in. The architect was Paul R. Williams. The complex was named after William Nickerson Jr. He was the founder of Golden State Mutual Life Insurance Company.
Once upon a time, Nickerson Gardens was a mostly Black community. In the 1970s, around 95% of residents were African American. But things changed over time. By 2004, that number had dropped to about 75%.
Nickerson Gardens has a unique distinction. It is the largest public housing development west of the Mississippi River. It houses 1066 units. These units are spread across 156 buildings. They offer townhouse-style living, with single-bedroom options.
Nickerson Gardens is assigned to several schools such as 112th Street Elementary School, Lovelia P. Flournoy Elementary School, Markham Middle School and Jordan High School. Education is key for the children here.
In 2023, Nickerson Gardens got a brand-new playground. It was designed with the help of Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers. NBBJ and ESI Design also helped without charging any money. This playground is not just swings and slides. It also features a gym, a carousel, and even misting poles to keep cool. There are climbing nets and shady spots, too. The Watts Gang Task Force was there at the opening. They see the park as a way to fight gang activity.
Did you know that Kendrick Lamar often mentions Nickerson Gardens in his songs? Songs like “DUCKWORTH.”, “wacced out murals” and “Not Like Us” reference it. Although he didn’t grow up here, he has a connection. His label Top Dawg Entertainment gives back every year. Since 2014, they have held a Christmas toy drive here. Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith, the founder of TDE, and Jay Rock were raised in Nickerson Gardens.
Vanessa Bryant and the Lakers chose Nickerson Gardens for a special project. They renovated the gym here. It used to be a Boys and Girls Club where Kobe Bryant ran his “Mamba League”. The renovated gym features a mural of Kobe and Gianna Bryant designed by artist Brian Peterson.
Nickerson Gardens has seen changes and challenges. But it remains a vital part of Watts. It is a place where community matters. It is a place where people work together to build a better future. Nickerson Gardens is a testament to resilience. It is a place where hope grows. It is a place that many call home.