Customer Reviews

Around Utica (NY) (Images of America)

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I grew up in Utica, so I was eager to see this book. My only regret is that it didn't have a more representative selection of historical photos. There was much history that took place in Utica - hard to believe now - but it was said at one time that the "decisions of the world were made in Utica." The residential architecture on its main street (Genesee) and in areas like Rutger Park, etc., is grand and impressive and reflects the city's importance to the country at the end of the nineteenth century. Unfortunately, this book shows only a few of those gorgeous homes. While this volume recalls much of the grandeur of Utica at the time, there's just not enough of it. It's not really an overview of the area as much as it is a celebration of one person's collection of photographs, and it is limited by his interests. That said, the book is still beautiful. There are photos that give a glimpse of the beautiful elm trees that once graced the streets there. Oxford Road in New Hartford is pictured, almost empty except for the marvelous home near St. John's Church which was rumored to be a stop on the Underground Railroad. And my grandparents used to speak of Forest Park, which is featured in this collection. I had no idea where it was until I saw this book. (It was on Oneida Street near Hillcrest Manor - who knew!) So, while this is a limited collection, it is still worth the price!