Customer Reviews

Lighthouses of New England (Snow Centennial Editions)

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When I was between fifth and sixth grades, I first became introduced to the writings of Edward Rowe Snow after reading a book I believe was titled TRUE TALES AND MYSTERIOUS LEGENDS. I read other books as well and quickly learned that if anyone knows New England, it is Edward Rowe Stowe. Stowe was an expert on everything New England, especially its legends. Stowe also loved lighthouses, both the structures and the people who staffed them. His book THE LIGHTHOUSES OF NEW ENGLAND has the history of New England's lighthouses which played an essential role in the maritime history of the United States as well as the legends associated with them. For some, using the title New England may be a misnomer since the majority of the book deals with the lights in Massachusetts and Maine, with some information about Rhode Island lights, particularly then story of Ida Lewis, but the lights of Connecticut are not included, but even without this information, the book is still a great treasure.

This edition of the book was published in honor of the centenary of Snow's birth, due largely to the efforts of Jeremy D'Entremont, a contemporary lighthouse historian who shares Snow's love for the lighthouses of New England.

Edward Rowe Snow has produced many accounts of New England maritime history, making his name as a historian of the coast: his LIGHTHOUSES OF NEW ENGLAND first appeared in 1945, was updated in 1973, and returns to print to provide newcomers with a rich history of over fifty of the region's lighthouses. This edition (1933212209) adds modern lighthouse expert Jeremy D'Entremont's annotations to Snow's chapters which brings details about each lighthouse up to date. Black and white photos enhance a lively reading style perfect for lighthouse fans and regional New England history buffs.

Snow's writing style is very much a product of his era and of his upbringing, both of which are firmly rooted in a bygone era. I could wish for a little less florid language and a little more substance. That said, this book is required reading for lovers of New England maritime history and culture.