If a bomb went off today in Grand Central Station, we would immediately think of some world wide terrorist organization. On March 29, 1951, when a homemade bomb went off at Grand Central it was a “He’s Back. . .” moment. The Mad Bomber, as the criminal was called by the New York media had … More The Mad Bomber
A lovely spring day in 1911 was forever changed by the tragic events at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory on Greene Street in Greenwich Village. The combination of smoke, locked doors and uncaring owners led to the death of 146 girls, many of whom to the horror of onlookers jumped to their deaths from the upper … More A Lovely Spring Day Encounters Death
March 17, 1942 (NYPL Digital Collection) Today marks the celebration of St. Patrick, Ireland’s patron saint. He is honored with one of the longest running parades in American history. The Irish have been parading in New York City since the 18th century. During the French and Indian War, the British made New York City their … More The Sons of Saint Patrick
Few Americans register the fact that New York City was once the capitol of the United States. Frequently, on my walking tours, when we get to Federal Hall and we gaze on the magnificent statue of George Washington by John Quincy Adams Ward, someone is surprised to hear George took the oath in New York … More Books: The First Congress
Bowery & Canal 