History of New York
Sep 7th, 2003, 12:01 AM
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History of New York
Hello
My son is a student in England and wants to read a book about the history of New York. The sort of thing he is after is how it grew from a small settlement to the place it is now. Tall order I know, but maybe someone could suggest a title for him. Grateful for any help - a search on the web gave an overwhelming choice and yet I feel there may well be a definitive volume somewhere. Thanks!
My son is a student in England and wants to read a book about the history of New York. The sort of thing he is after is how it grew from a small settlement to the place it is now. Tall order I know, but maybe someone could suggest a title for him. Grateful for any help - a search on the web gave an overwhelming choice and yet I feel there may well be a definitive volume somewhere. Thanks!
Sep 7th, 2003, 04:09 AM
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While it sits on my bookshelf unread, you might want to get a copy of "The Historical Atlas of New York City: A Visual Celebration of Nearly 400 Years of New York City's History" by Eric Homberger. It covers almost the entire history of New York from the earliest Dutch settlements.
While not exactly what you are after, another book that comes to mind is "New York Streetscapes: Tales of Manhattan's Significant Buildings and Landmarks" by Christopher Gray. Gray is the architectural columnist for the NY Times, so the book is slanted more towards the physical attributes of certain locations, with stories weaved in about people connected to these places.
You might want to look on the website for the NY Historical Society. It is the de facto archivist for New York and perhaps they have publications that fit your need.
Good luck.
While not exactly what you are after, another book that comes to mind is "New York Streetscapes: Tales of Manhattan's Significant Buildings and Landmarks" by Christopher Gray. Gray is the architectural columnist for the NY Times, so the book is slanted more towards the physical attributes of certain locations, with stories weaved in about people connected to these places.
You might want to look on the website for the NY Historical Society. It is the de facto archivist for New York and perhaps they have publications that fit your need.
Good luck.
Sep 7th, 2003, 07:58 AM
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"The Power Broker"
is an incredible read about how
Robert Moses "built" the New York City that we have today. He controlled almost all the dollars that flowed toward major construction projects.
He started in the 1920's and was even involved with the World Trade Complex.
Oh, and by the way, the guy was ruthless!
Regards,
Pete
Sep 7th, 2003, 10:20 AM
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Gotham by Edwin Burrows & Mike Wallace is an excellent source, however it is long and may be somewhat daunting (over 1,000 pages). It also covers New York only up until 1898.
A few years ago, PBS put out a documentary by Ric Burns called "New York". It is a good overview in seven episodes and is available on video and DVD. There is also a companion book you can purchase called "New York: An Illustrated History" by Ric Burns and James Sanders. It is easier to read and has many wonderful pictures.
A few years ago, PBS put out a documentary by Ric Burns called "New York". It is a good overview in seven episodes and is available on video and DVD. There is also a companion book you can purchase called "New York: An Illustrated History" by Ric Burns and James Sanders. It is easier to read and has many wonderful pictures.
