Chronicles of Historic Brooklyn

by John B. Manbeck

Diversity and distinctiveness are part of the historic fabric of Brooklyn--they are part of its people, landmarks, favorite events and more. Borough Historian John Manbeck has collected the stories that reveal the history and spirit of this ever-growing metropolis. Brooklyn Bridge Park and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden beautify the borough, which is returning to its roots with a vibrant "urban farming" movement. From stories of murderous pirates who once besieged Sheepshead Bay to tales of the still-beloved Brooklyn Dodgers who played at Ebbets Field, Manbeck traces the long and colorful history. Explore the forgotten neighborhoods, vanishing waterfront and other attractions that show how and why Brooklyn has endured.

Genres: Nonfiction

208 pages, Paperback

First published April 30, 2013

Reviews

[Marisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book does a great job of describing Brooklyn and many events, stores, and people that make up its history. The best part of the book was being able to read about places and events nearby that I can go visit. Although I'm not a sports fanatic, my favorite chapter was by far Part III: Sports because it talked in detail about all the different sports teams that started in Brooklyn, which I knew nothing about. I'm rating it 3 stars because it wasn't the most interesting book, but it is certainly a good place to learn some fun facts and history behind a great borough!

[Joe McMahon · Rating 4 out of 5]

John Manbeck seems to author weekly news columns about Brooklyn history. This paperbound of the American Chronicles series (A History Press Series) is a fascinating collection of these accounts. Their date of publication often does not refer to the topic of the article, which may run two or three pages in this volume. The organization of topics is scattered, but I found it quite interestiing. There is no plot to follow. The book was published in 2013, so some remarks are outdated. Public plans go awry.
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In 1944, Dad brought me on the last elevated train across the Brooklyn Bridge.