Anthony Mitchell Sammarco is a distinguished historian and author whose extensive body of work focuses on the history and development of Boston. His writings, which began in 1995, often delve into the lesser-known aspects of the city and its iconic institutions. Sammarco has garnered acclaim for his engaging style, which brings Boston's past to life and makes it accessible to a wide audience. His contributions are valued for their depth and ability to evoke nostalgia as well as understanding of his native city's evolution.
The unexpected history of East Boston unfolds through over 200 rare photographs, tracing its evolution from the quaint Noodle's Island to the bustling site of Logan Airport. This visual journey highlights the area's transformation and captures its unique character, showcasing the rich heritage and stories that define East Boston.
Jamaica Plain, often referred to as the Eden of America, boasts a vibrant history that dates back to the seventeenth century. Its name is believed to have originated from the rum trade between Jamaica and Boston in the 1660s. Once part of Roxbury and later West Roxbury, the area served as a summer retreat for New England's elite before officially becoming part of Boston in 1874. The neighborhood's evolution reflects its rich cultural heritage and significance in the region's development.
The Great Boston Fire of 1872 serves as a pivotal event that transformed Old Boston. This catastrophic blaze not only ravaged the city but also paved the way for a rebirth, leading to significant urban renewal and development. The narrative explores the fire's impact on the city's architecture, community, and resilience, highlighting how disaster can lead to revitalization and change.
Established in 1848, Forest Hills Cemetery serves as Boston's premier arboretum cemetery, showcasing a diverse history through its 250 acres. It is the final resting place for notable figures such as poets Anne Sexton and E. E. Cummings, playwright Eugene O'Neill, and abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison. The landscape features a rich collection of sculptures and monuments reflecting the Victorian era to modern times. As the site of New England's first crematorium, it holds historical significance and is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.
The book explores Boston's South End, a vibrant neighborhood that evolved from man-made land into a cultural melting pot by the 1850s. Highlighting its unique architecture, including brick row houses and lush parks with cast-iron fountains, it showcases the area's diverse ethnicities, races, and religions. The narrative emphasizes the South End's appeal as both a desirable destination and a thriving residential community, enriched by upscale restaurants and cultural institutions like the Boston Center for the Arts.
Anthony Mitchell Sammarco explores the rich history and vibrant culture of a specific region, delving into its unique stories and significant events. The narrative is enriched with detailed research, captivating anecdotes, and vivid imagery that bring the past to life. Readers can expect a blend of historical insights and personal reflections, making it an engaging read for those interested in local history and heritage. The book serves as both an informative resource and a tribute to the area's legacy.
The transformation of South Boston, originally a close-knit community of Polish, Lithuanian, and Irish Americans, highlights its significant growth and change since its annexation to Boston in 1804. The book explores the social and cultural evolution of this neighborhood over the past decade, reflecting on the impacts of urban development and demographic shifts.
The book explores the transformation of Roxbury, which became part of Boston in 1867, highlighting its evolution into a vibrant "streetcar suburb." It delves into the dynamic interplay of diverse cultures, religions, and races that shape the community today, reflecting on the impact of land development and demographic shifts over time.
Set in the historically rich town of Medford, the narrative explores its transformation from a plantation owned by Governor Matthew Craddock in 1630 to a vibrant community near Boston. The book highlights Medford's evolution, showcasing its agricultural roots, cultural growth, and diverse community. Readers are invited to discover intriguing facts about local institutions like Tufts University and view rare photographs capturing the essence of early residents and their experiences, including the influence of European settlers and unique local challenges.
The book delves into the rich history of Charlestown, showcasing its heritage through a collection of captivating photographs. It offers a visual journey that highlights significant events, landmarks, and the community's evolution over time, providing readers with a deeper appreciation of this historic city.