A Short History of Richmond

by Jack Trammell, Guy Terrell

The seven hills at the James River fall line that Captain John Smith first witnessed in 1607 became the site of a pivotal American city. Richmond was a birthplace of the American Revolution. It became the permanent capital of Virginia and served as the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War. In the early twentieth century, industry expanded in the city as companies like DuPont and Philip Morris built factories. Cultural institutions expanded, with Richmond's first radio station and movie theater opening in the 1920s, before the Great Depression hit the city hard. The city rose from financial struggle to a highly industrialized center for manufacturing and vital transportation hub. Join authors Jack Trammell and Guy Terrell as they narrate the rich history of the River City.

Genres: History

176 pages, Paperback

Published December 4, 2017

About the author

Jack Trammell is an assistant professor of sociology, a romance novelist, a descendant of Appalachian farmers and the father of seven children.

He is currently a candidate for Congress in Virginia.

Reviews

[Kaylee Gentry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well it's most certainly living up to the "short" part of the title. I have just moved to Richmond and wanted to look into the history of the city I'm now in and honestly, this works just fine for a quick crash course. I've now got some events that I want to look more in depth to, but if you are a Richmond history buff, this will probably leave you wanting.

[jay · Rating 3 out of 5]

A book full of interesting tidbits, though a bit dry. As someone new to Richmond who wanted to learn about Richmond history, however, this certainly got the job done. It covers (though quickly) from just before the founding of Richmond thru the present day, and makes note of the Native Americans who lived here before, the Civil War, and the city's long history surrounding slavery and racism. It checks the boxes of what I wanted to know, but starting about halfway in, it starts reading more like a laundry list of events than a cohesive (or interesting) narrative. Check it out from the library if you want a quick summary of RVA history though.

[Lisa K · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ended up skim reading since it's just a step above a list of notable dates, locations, people, events. Not a gripping narrative, but a serviceable history. Contemporary, inclusive take on interpretations (though I want to fight about "seven hills"), illustrated chiefly with photos from Library of Congress.

Includes tables listing mayors. And skimpy index.

[Ward Howarth · Rating 3 out of 5]

A great overview of our River City from its inception to present day, short & sweet.

[Daniel · Rating 3 out of 5]

A polite and well-meaning regurgitation of disjointed facts.