Customer Reviews

The Cove: Panama City's Neighborhood (FL) (Images of America)

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(0)
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2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

For many years, I have been a BIG fan of the Images of America series. Each time I have moved to a new community, I have used these excellent books as my introduction to the history of my new home.

Expecting a nice synopsis of the history of early Panama City, FL; what I got was a family photo album of the "who's who" of those elitist families who ran (and still run) Panama. There was virtually no coverage of the historical development; or the many house types in The Cove (yes, there were scattered house photos, but it was as if that were an afterthought).

Sadly...... all this book did was dredge up my long buried personal memories on why I choose to leave that area, 40+ years ago.

I, man and boy, have spent near 50 years in the brackish salt water areas of coastal Florida.. I moved from the New Smyrna Beach area (well, more Daytona but there are fewer serial killers in NSB, that's another story...) to near Panama City and the Cove just over a year ago.
It's a wonderful neighborhood and this book seems to tell it as it was and never will be again.
I have gotten to know a local lady of some vintage, she read my copy and thought there were things she disagreed with awarded the book a 'not bad', which for her is five stars...
The last year we have noticed a change in this area already... less Southern, more commercial.. it's too bad but it is bound to happen. Get this books and see it as it was.
I can recommend the Port Orange book too.. It reminded me that I went to grade school 300 yards from the state KKK headquarters.. later a candle factory that BURNED down.. poetic justice?? or 'jus'us???
L. McD.