Customer Reviews

As you pass by

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Anyone who lives in or near New York City drools when they see this book, with its detailed street maps overlaid with present day maps, lot lines, former property owners, extinct street names, land fill and historical narrative. This book is far and away one of the most comprehensive and intriguing descriptions of downtown Manhattan that has ever been put together. It is a complete mystery to me why there has never been a reissue of As You Pass By, even without the color (Courrier & Ives) plates. It would sell like hotcakes. I am constantly referring back to it. And since it was published originally in 1952, there has been considerable change in the "modern" city.

If you know someone with even a fleeting interest in early New York (a fanatical crew), you have come upon the perfect gift for that individual. But if you do give it as a gift, do not expect much conversation from the receipient for a considerable length of time.

This book is out of print but a must for the collection of memorabilia of any firefighter. It contains incredible history and insight to the institution of the fire service industry as well as remarkable illustrations.