Walking St. Augustine: An Illustrated Guide and Pocket History to America's Oldest City

by Elsbeth K. Gordon

Historic St. Augustine Research Institute William L. Proctor Award “Gaze at the buildings and read the accounts of the people who walked the same streets more than 450 years ago; you will be transformed into a time traveler.”—Thomas Graham, author of Mr. Flagler’s St. Augustine
 
“Grab this book—you will never find this information on a travel website.”—Kathleen Deagan, coauthor of Fort Colonial America's Black Fortress of Freedom
 
In 2013, National Geographic Traveler chose St. Augustine as one of “20 must-see places and best trips in the world.” But while tourists take in the fort and stroll the cobblestone streets, few visitors are aware of the remarkable history of this  European-established settlement in the continental United States.
           
Walking St. Augustine fuses illustrated history and intimate handbook. The author, Elsbeth “Buff” Gordon, one of the city’s most highly regarded historians, is also a resident and offers insider tips for exciting adventures.
           
Gordon divides the colonial village into sections, all easily walked in a single day. She guides visitors through Plaza de la Constitucion, the oldest public park in America, and down the same avenues walked by the first Spanish settlers. She vividly retells landmark events, highlights areas of architectural or historic interest, delves into the genealogy of the multicultural families that have made St. Augustine home, and offers human stories and heritage recipes passed down through the centuries.
           
With this vibrantly rendered, easy-to-use, and color-coded guide, visitors can walk the seldom-visited south end of the city, which includes the earliest residential area with streets dating back to 1572, and stop in at the Flagler College complex, its more recent history illuminated by its architectural perfection. Gordon suggests visiting the Colonial Quarter Living History Museum, and for those looking to venture beyond walking distance, the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, Anastasia Island, and Fort Mose, the nation’s first legally free black settlement.
             
Walking St. Augustine opens the doors to a spellbinding city, allowing visitors to discover five centuries of gripping history.

Genres: Travel, History, Nonfiction

240 pages, Paperback

First published May 3, 2015

Reviews

[Will · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probably the best guide on St. Augustine out on the market right now. The writer details the importance of each historic site and even includes the address for each site for one can find the location of a site easily. The images are great and the size of the book is convenient to take around with you while you go exploring. St. Augustine, contrary to it’s nickname as “The Oldest City”, will never get old. There is always something new to find in this “Ancient City.”

[Jean Tretler · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book isn't meant to be a typical travel guide. Instead Its an excellent deep dive into the rich history of St Augustine with several walking tours mapped out. Each tour identifies historical buildings along the route, with illustrations & stories of each one's colorful. past. I learned a lot from this book, and it gave me a much deeper appreciation of this remarkable city.

[Tracy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Definitely not pocket sized. Great reference for the many historical buildings, but I expect a walking tour to include eateries and other attractions beyond just buildings.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

A helpful guide packed with historical information. If you are looking for info regarding lodgings are places to dine look elsewhere.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cannot wait to go!

[Thomas Ryan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well worth reading before walking St. Augustine.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

St. Augustine, established in 1565, is my most favorite city in Florida. The author of this guide presents four self-guided walking tours of the city with easy to follow maps. The book is filled with photos of the historical buildings/sites with historical information about each. Highly recommended - even if one does not plan on or cannot visit here.

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Walking St. Augustine details an illustrated history and handbook of the oldest city in the US. The book is divided into sections, all easily walked in a single day. It guides visitors through Plaza de la Constitucion, the oldest public park in America, and down the same avenues walked by the first Spanish settlers. A must have book for visitors to this city.