Never Ruled by Man

by Phyllis Ameduri

Stapleton, New York was in its heyday in the late 19th century. There was a busy waterfront, world renowned breweries, and a vibrant downtown business center. There were churches, jails, dance halls, and saloons. In Stapleton, anything could and did happen as honest, hard-working, and at times rough-edged citizens of the community shared the same streets with young thugs, hardened criminals, and corrupt politicians. Mary Ann Bascombe was a real-life anomaly who played a part in the drama of Stapleton’s golden age. Born in 1840, she started and ended life on the same street corner in the working class section of Stapleton called Rocky Hollow. Orphaned at the age of twelve, Mary Ann was forced into work as a housemaid. Yet, from this humble and unfortunately common circumstance of the times, she went on to become a savvy businesswoman, lay lawyer, neighborhood activist, and local politician, independent of a man. Mary Ann also became a humorous and eccentric local personality known for being outspoken and carrying around a club.Mary Ann Bascombe lived a rich and fascinating life, then died and tumbled through the cracks of history. This story resurrects her life and times during the free spirited independent days of Staten Island prior to joining the City of Greater New York.

266 pages, Paperback

Published November 8, 2018

Reviews

[Author Agnes Varona Oquendo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Never Ruled By Man, by Phyllis Barone Ameduri has brought back many fond memories of growing up in the Stapleton area as a child. Although her main character, Mary Ann Bascombe lived a great many years before my time, I can feel that connection with her through the words of the author. She describes in great detail Mary Ann's wit, strength & accomplishments that were rare for women during her era. I as the reader wholeheartedly fell in love with her character and learning the history of Staten Island was icing on the cake for me. Thank you, I truly loved this book.

[Catherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a fascinating retelling of the life and times of Mary Ann Bascombe, a thrice-married mother of eight and self-made business woman who was ahead of her time. It's also a snapshot of the bustling city of Stapleton, Staten Island in the 1800's, before the area was incorporated into the City of New York. The author is the great-great granddaughter of Mary Ann Bascombe.