When Brooklyn Was the World, 1920-1957

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Elliot Willensky, Brooklyn's official Borough Historian, takes us back to a time when Brooklyn was a vibrant world of adventure and community. He evokes memories of delightful subway rides on the new BMT, summer picnics on the beach, and evenings filled with Nathan's hotdogs at Coney Island and the thrills of Luna Park. The essence of Brooklyn is captured in its neighborhoods, where children played games like jacks and double-dutch on lively streets, while stoops served as gathering spots for neighbors. Stores-on-wheels brought fresh produce and baked goods directly to homes, while door-to-door salesmen like the Fuller Brush man made life easier for housewives. Dining out often meant enjoying Chinese cuisine, with dishes like moo goo gai pan and subgum chow mein, while upscale nights featured big bands at clubs on Flatbush Avenue or performances at the Brooklyn Academy of Music. The period from 1920 to 1957 was particularly special for Brooklyn, marked by the subway's expansion and the rise of family-friendly entertainment. This era ended with the Dodgers' departure in 1957, a moment that symbolized the changing fate of Brooklyn. With engaging text and a wealth of nostalgic photographs, the book recovers the rich history of this lively city as remembered by those who experienced its golden era.