The marvelous story of the Flatiron: the instantly recognizable building that signaled the start of a new era in New York history.Critics hated it. The public feared it would topple over. Passersby were knocked down by the winds. But even before it was completed; the Flatiron Building had become an unforgettable part of New York City. The Flatiron Building was built by the Chicago-based Fuller Company--a group founded by George Fuller; "the father of the skyscraper"--to be their New York headquarters. The companys president; Harry Black; was never able to make the public call the Flatiron the Fuller Building; however. Blacks was the countrys largest real estate firm; constructing Macys department store; and soon after the Plaza Hotel; the Savoy Hotel; and many other iconic buildings in New York as well as in other cities across the country. With an ostentatious lifestyle that drew constant media scrutiny; Black made a fortune only to meet a tragic; untimely end.In The Flatiron; Alice Sparberg Alexiou chronicles not just the story of the building but the heady times in New York at the dawn of the twentieth century. It was a time when Madison Square Park shifted from a promenade for rich women to one for gay prostitutes; when photography became an art; motion pictures came into existence; the booming economy suffered increasing depressions; jazz came to the forefront of popular music--and all within steps of one of the citys best-known and best-loved buildings.
#1224410 in eBooks 2007-11-08 2007-11-08File Name: B003HGH250
Review
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. A nice introduction to Japanese artsBy PhilHI have been practicing aikido for several years. and was surprised to find the first chapter of this book deals with that subject. The book explains how different Japanese arts affect the practitioner. The author is an academic. but the is very down to earth and includes many interviews with practitioners of a variety of Japanese arts. I have recommended and shared this book with a number of friends and all found that it gave them a much deeper understanding of Japanese arts. including one who had made a number of visits to relatives of his wife in Japan.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. You will understand so much more by reading this!By Dr. RJA thoroughly unique perspective on traditional Japanese arts. It really is a must read. if you are considering it. Like an excellent graduate school course combining art. phillosophy. and Asian studies.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy rich mthis book really hits home regarding the mindset of the japanese man/woman
