DC Washington Books

Just a great all around book that shows what amount of history can be found in any given neighborhood, even if one thinks none exists on the surface. Their book is full of rarely exposed history and fascinating tidbits.

In tracing the history of a distinctive area in Washington. D. C, the authors have compiled a fascinating document that should interest even readers who don't live in the area. Assiduously reseached and fluently written, the book follows the transformation of a country landscape into a neighborhood and of a neighborhood into a community. Chapters on outstanding residents and significant architecture are intrinsically interesting. Changes through the decades are displayed in a rich trove of photos and documents. Residents of DC will find this book indispensable, as will historians and chroniclers of Americana.

In 1809 Washington Irving published "A History of New York," the work that make him instantly famous. Conceived as a parody of Samuel L. Mitchill's guidebook "The Picture of New York" (1807), Irving's "History" purports to be written by the fictitious Diedrich Knickerbocker. It was, perhaps, the first American book to be embargoed by the publisher--that is, it was published in Philadelphia to keep its contents secret from the press in New York. Before the book was published, Irving and his friends even coordinated a hoax through the local papers, publishing a series of notices advertising Knickerbocker's inexplicable disappearance: "there are some reasons for believing he is not in his right mind," and "a very curious kind of written book has been found in his room."

The book was such a success that Irving revised it repeatedly during his lifetime, and readers should note which edition they are purchasing. Most recent editions reprint either the original text or the last revision, which are so different that they may as well be considered different works. By the time of the Author's Revised Edition of Irving's collected works, published in 1848, Irving had completely rewritten over a tenth of the book, added about 7,000 words of new material, softened the sarcasm, eliminated the mocking references to Jefferson's presidential administration, removed many risque passages and double entendres, and polished the overall style. The barbs are more personal in the earlier edition; Irving aimed his parody more broadly forty years later. In sum, while the earlier edition was considered more scandalous--even "naughty"--and cheekier in its wit and tone, the last edition is certainly more polished and "mature"--and might be considered by many as noticeably easier to read. (The remainder of this review focuses on the 1809 edition.)

The book's conceit is that the fictitious Knickerbocker, a Dutch descendant, nostalgically mourns the passing of Dutch hegemony on the island of "Manna-hata, Manhattoes, or as it is vulgarly called Manhattan," and he offers a rousing defense (read: mock hagiography) of the Dutch governors. But Irving's satire is aimed not simply at the long-dead colonists of New York; his depictions of various Dutch leaders evoke many of his contemporaries. Thus, Wilhelmus Kleft seems an awful lot like Thomas Jefferson, and Jacobus von Poffenburgh recalls General James Wilkinson (who was caught up in Aaron Burr's allegedly treasonous schemes against Jefferson's government). The "hero" of the book, however, is Peter Stuyvesant, whose glorious qualities are manifold--even if his rule was considered authoritarian and his last act as governor was to rebel against his own king, who had ceded Manhattan to his brother, the duke of York.

Irving, as Knickerbocker, also mocks the pretensions of historical scholarship. He offers philosophical justifications for the obesities of city leaders ("Who ever heard of fat men heading a riot?") and praises the well-honed Dutch civil defense against Yankee encroachments ("Never was a more comprehensive, a more expeditious, or, what is still better, a more economical measure devised, than this of defeating the Yankees by proclamation."). He interrupts his narrative several times with admonishments to the reader or faux biographical meanderings, and, near the end of the book, he acknowledges that his tone has changed from that of a "crabbed cynical, impertinent little son of a Dutchman" to a "most social, companionable regard." Of the many readers that began his book, "some dropped down dead (asleep) on the field; others threw down my book in the middle of the first chapter, took to their heels and never ceased scampering until they had fairly run it out of sight . . . Every page thinned my ranks more and more."

This last self-deprecatory joke is certainly the case for modern would-be readers: Irving's archaic prose can be a slog, and his historical and literary references will perplex even the most arduous. But not all the humor is dated, and quite often patient readers will be rewarded by a comment or pun that may even cause them to laugh out loud.

Washington Irving's A Knickerbocker's History of New York is the single funniest book in American literature. Despite a weak and too-lengthy opening segment on the origin of life and other awkward philosophical questions (the merits of this section are addressed by Irving/Knickerbocker in volume two), once the Dutch colonize the ancient island of Manhattoes (present-day Manhattan), Irving hits a rollicking gallop, going full stride at full speed and doesn't stop until the dubious William the Testy is vanquished at the first volume's end.

"Diedrich Knickerbocker" was arguably the greatest of the several personae Irving adopted during the course of his long writing career. 'Diedrich' penned 'The Legend Of Sleepy Hollow' and 'Rip Van Winkle,' as well as short stories 'Wolfert Weber,' 'The Devil And Tom Walker,' 'Kidd The Pirate,' and 'Dolph Heyliger.' Irving achieved magic whenever he wrote, but when he steps into Knickerbocker's antique Dutch shoes, the combination of humor, history and folklore that results is unique, sweeping, and highly entertaining.

Few writers could or would dare to write the kind of poetic sentances Irving/Knickerbocker could, such as "the inhabitants were of primitive stock, and had itermarried and bred in and in, never swarming far from the parent hive."

All lovers of American literature and history, and of Americana generally, should know this delightful, warm and amusing book. Too often today, when addressing the origins of American literature and our early writers, we turn to names like Hawthorne and Poe, forgetting that Irving came first and was in fact the first American writer ever to be taken seriously by Europeans. (It was Hawthorne and Poe that paid lip service to Irving, who was born a full 21 years before Hawthorne and 26 years before Poe.) Some historians and critics go so far as to credit Irving with the creation of the short story as a literary form; he was also the U.S. ambassador to Spain, a world traveler, a biographer of George Washington, and at one time requested to run for mayor of New York City (an invitation he kindly declined). Thanks largely to Irving, the New York City and Hudson River Valley areas have a thriving plethora of myth and folklore all their own. As Americans, we owe the dynamic, magnanimous and prolific Irving a great debt, which decade after decade we neglect to pay or acknowledge.

Knickerbocker's History of New York is not difficult reading, though it is too advanced for children and most teenagers. However, any young adult or adult with a love of American history, particularly with an interest in the founding of our country or the American Revolution specifically, will find it fascinating. Humorists will find it a page-turning delight, and send their volumes of Twain back to the library post-haste....

This eight page typescript contains an enormous amount of information. And, over 60 years later, it contains a great deal of entertainment for my British friends. It's fun to share with friends in this country as well.

"You will naturally be interested in getting to know your opposite number, the British soldier, the `Tommy' you have heard and read about. You can understand that two actions on your part will slow up the friendship - swiping his girl, and not appreciating what his army has been up against. Yes, and rubbing it in that you are better paid than he is."

On courage: "Don't be misled by the British tendency to be soft- spoken and polite. If they need to be, they can be plenty tough. The English language didn't spread across the oceans and over the mountains and jungles and swamps of the world because these people were panty-waists."

On servicewomen: "Now you understand why British soldiers respect the women in uniform. They have won the right to utmost respect. When you see a girl in khaki . . . with a bit of ribbon on her tunic - remember she didn't get it for knitting more socks than anyone else in Ipswich."

"Let this be your slogan: It is always impolite to criticize your hosts. it is militarily stupid to criticize your allies."

The advice about not criticizing your hosts is great advice for any traveler, military or civilian. I found the pamphlet an interesting bit of cultural and military history.

Robert C. Ross 2008

There's an old saying: "It is always impolite to criticize your hosts; it is militarily stupid to criticize your allies." No kidding. Which is why, in 1942, when the Americans took up residence in Britain, a seven-page long pamphlet was distributed, essentially to help the Yanks understand their British "cousins."

Little did they know that those seven pages, some six decades later, would be read aloud on bus routes in London as amusing historical relics for the entertainment of passengers.

Short, sweet, and hysterically funny to the modern ear, this books gives a very good view of how Americans saw the British people, both during WW2 and even now, by comparing how we saw them then to how we see them today. The book goes into everything, using clear language and astonishing detail for all its length: sports, weights and measures, monetary units, rationing. Some of the instructions bring home the fact that America was itself a drastically different place sixty years ago; some of it brings into stark relief that by the time the US entered the war, Britain had been involved for over two years already.

But perhaps what makes it so funny now is the language itself, since phrases have changed so drastically in the last sixty years, something quite ironically stated in the first few pages: "The British have phrases and colloquialisms of their own that may sound funny to you. You can make just as many boners in their eyes...."

Indeed.

This is the essential book if you're planning a trip along the Pittsburgh-DC trailway, or any segment. Well written, this is like a visit with an experienced tour guide. The book offers options for various experience levels. You can't go wrong with this!

A good pamphlet if your planning the trip. It provides a good deal of useful information on routes and places to stay. It would be great if the pamphlet was updated as I'm sure there have been changes since 1999.

Anything with the name Michelin tells me that it is well thought out and offers practical advice and information. This book is no exception to that rule. The Washington DC Green Guide is up-to-date for life in post-9-11 Washington. Helpful contact information, hours of operation and maps are included among neighborhood histories and in-depth museum information that will make you think you've already visited the places! My favorite feature of the book is the address and contact information. The embassies, museums, theatres, major shopping locales and other businesses are listed in an organized manner making it most helpful to make reservations or equipe you to handle any other inquiry you might have. Though its descriptions are ample and helpful as a native, I must admit, I noticed the absence of some insider tidbits with which I have become familiar in my decades living in the Capital City. There are a few historical establishments & restaurants (Old Ebbitts, for instance) which are not included. Overall though, I must give this book a high ranking because it is hard to wrap up our grand city in one book without having to be choosy about what is to be included and what should be left out. Though I live in DC and have all my life, I enjoy this book because it allows me to become aware of some features of our grand town which I may have previously overlooked. It is a great resource for visiting tourists as well and great for Washingtonians to keep on hand when they forsee out-of-town guests. The only thing that would make this book more useful were if it came with a Metro card!

On a recent trip to Washington, DC, I brought along a copy of "Michelin The Green Guide Washington, DC." It was the first time I had used a guidebook in this wonderful city, which I have visited often over the years, spending much time in its extraordinary museums and the Smithsonian Institute. This updated, post 9/11, Micheline book really made a difference - opening up a new world, and saving me lots of time and money also.

The White House, the Capitol, the monuments and the federal memorials - from the glorious Lincoln Memorial, (which I always visit when in town), to the always moving Vietnam War and the impressive Korean War Memorials, the brilliant Phillips Collection and other museums, the Washington National Cathedral, etc., all come to life with historical insight, color photographs and Washington, DC maps, detailed and marked with fascinating walking tours. The Michelin Green Guide to Washington, DC is extremely practical and covers all aspects of a trip to this historic city, including the most interesting neighborhoods to wander through, and a variety of some of the best restaurants the town has to offer. Excursions from DC highlight the best of Alexandria and the Mount Vernon area in nearby Virginia.

Highly recommended!
JANA

Within a few blocks of each other in Washington, D.C. lie three circles with equestrian statues commemorating three American heroes. Logan Circle, located at the intersection of 13th street and Rhode Island and Vermont Avenues N.W. and Massachusetts Ave N.W. honors General John Logan, a hero of the Battles of Vicksburg and Atlanta, a founder of Memorial Day, and a U.S. Senator and unsuccessful vice-presidential candidate in 1884. Thomas Circle, located about two blocks west of Logan Circle at 14th and Massachusetts Ave N.W. honors Civil War General George Thomas, one of the Union's greatest generals best-known as the "Rock of Chickamauga". Two blocks further west at 16th and M Street is Scott Circle, named for Winfield Scott, a hero of the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, several Indian wars, and the Civil War, and unsuccessful presidential candidate in 1852. Each of the three circles has a long history and each has witnessed much of the varied life of the city.

In his book "The Neighborhoods of Logan, Scott, and Thomas Circles", (2001), Washington D.C. architectural historian Paul K. Williams offers a photographic history of each of the three circles. This book is part of the "Images of America" series of Arcadia Press which celebrates in photographs much of the local history of the United States. Williams has written several books on Washington D.C. neighborhoods for Arcadia Press, including a volume on Dupont Circle, which lies only a few blocks west of Scott Circle. In his book, Williams presents a brief introduction to Logan, Thomas, and Scott Circles, followed by separate chapters devoted to each neighborhood.

Today's Logan Circle began its history as a Civil War camp which became notorious as a site for hanging deserters and spies. After the Civil War, the Circle became a premier Washington, D.C. residential area, the home of notables such as Ulysses Grant and John Logan himself. At the turn of the Century Logan Circle became home to Washington D.C.'s black elite. The statute to Logan was dedicated in 1901, and Congress changed the name of the circle from "Iowa Circle" to Logan Circle in 1930. Beginning in 1940s, Logan Circle entered into a long, severe period of decline and blight. Together with Thomas Circle, Logan Circle became the center of Washington D.C.'s red-light district, downplayed somewhat by Williams. Rehabilitation of the area began in earnest in the 1970s and continues today. The area was recognized as a Historic District in 1972. Williams offers fascinating views of the many historic homes in the Logan Circle area and of persons who have called Logan Circle home, including early Civil Rights leader Mary McLeod Bethune, and Bishop Charles "Sweet Daddy" Grace, the founder of the D.C. church known as the "United House of Prayer for all People." The most impressive photographs are those of Logan Circle itself, at various times, seasons of the year, and states of repair. The Circle and General Logan bear witness to the changes seen in the area.

Thomas Circle is today the site of one of Washington D.C's busiest intersections, but it too began as a rural area. The statue to General Thomas dates from 1879. Unlike Logan Circle, Thomas Circle became commercialized. The large residences which one occupied the area were replaced by large hotels and businesses, creating today's urban environment. The Luther Place Memorial Church and the Christian National City Church lie on the northeast and northwest sides of Thomas Circle and add great presence. An underpass was constructed under the Circle on Massachusetts Avenue in 1940. Here again, Williams' most impressive photographs are those of General Thomas and his circle, such as the stunning photograph of the statue during a cold winter night of 1918 (p. 69). Williams again downplays the lengthy period of notoriety of Thomas Circle.

Scott Circle actually includes three memorials. In thinking about this book, I visited Scott Circle and watched the endless flow of pedestrians and traffic. Scott Circle itself has no place to sit, and I went to the large memorial to the German physician Samuel Hahnemann, dedicated in 1900 (p. 98) just east of the statue of Scott. Scott's statue dates from 1874. Just west of the statue to Scott is a statue to Senator Daniel Webster, dedicated on a winter's day in 1900.( p. 95) During its early years, Scott Circle was home to large mansions owned by the politically powerful and the wealthy. The character of the area changed, and today Scott Circle consists of office and apartment buildings that bear little relationship to the historical character of the area that Williams documents. Williams offers interesting photographs of the interiors and exteriors of the old mansions. He falls victim to confusion in mistaking Winfield Scott for his near namesake, General Winfield Scott Hancock, the Union hero of the Battle of Gettysburg. The purported photograph of Winfield Scott in Williams' book (p. 87) is in fact a photo of Hancock. Scott Circle has an interesting history but little of the racy past of Logan and Thomas Circles.

Williams offers a gentrified but still excellent introduction to three old neighborhoods. It is a delight to walk through these Circles and to think about what these distinguished generals on horseback have seen over the years.

Robin Friedman

Williams is doing a marvelous job of illuminating the history of Washington DC's neighborhoods (first title was the Dupont Circle neighborhood & forthcoming 'Greater U Street'). Discriminating eye for the photographs that illustrate architectural history, social history & the portraits of those who shaped neighborhood development.

"González is one of the most eloquent and important of Puerto Rico's contemporary writers. He rightly criticizes the vision of the past by which Spanish governance is gilded, while deep divisions within Puerto Rican society are glossed over. Any serious student of Puerto Rico, whether in literature, history, or the social sciences should be familiar with this essay."
-Sidney Mintz in The Americas

I thought this was a great book. Many may not agree because it says that our culture was an African culture. My stepdad doesn't see it like that. He says our culture has african presence but not completely and african/caribbean culture. But this books shows that it was, and it was invaded by Europeans later on. I recomend you read it. the one by Jose Luis Gonzalez: Puerto Rico: the four storeyed country

After having visited one of the establishments reviewed, I thought it would be interesting to read of all such eateries listed in the book. Crummy can also serve up wonderful meals. I enjoyed Donovan Kelly's writing style and humor along with the pertinent information.

Written by a restaurant expert, "Quest for the Holy Grill" is one of the funniest, most well-written travel guide/ restaurant review books I've read in a long time.

If you live in Maryland, Washington DC, or Virginia, you will find this book to be an invaluable tool to find great restaurants you may have overlooked in the past.

As one of the women highlighted in the book, I was excited to see the final product. I am always searching for a new and different recipe. I enjoy cooking and always try to collect recipes during my international travels. This book is full of interesting and delicious recipes and I look forward to trying many of them. I applaud Dr. Freeman for promoting all of us in the book and these wonderful recipes. Thank You!!!(...)

A great gift(...)

RECIPES FROM THE ROAD is a collection of recipes that celebrates the diversity of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. The cookbook features recipes from around the world and are sure to please even the most discerning palette. One of the greatest strengths of this book is its superb organization. The recipes are sorted by continent or region and then by the specific country from which the recipes are taken. Before reading the recipes from a given country, readers are provided with a brief overview of the culinary staples, traditions and customs that are inherent to the nation. This gives readers a more in depth appreciation for the recipes that follow. At the end of each section, readers are provided with a brief biography about the woman that submitted that set of recipes. As you read about the varied accomplishments of these women, you cannot help but be further impressed by this collection.

With recipes from Africa, Asia, Europe, the Mediterranean, Latin America, and the Caribbean, at times I felt as if this book was taking me on a tour of the world. The addition of the information on the food culture made this cookbook educational as well as useful. If you are looking for a book that will inspire you through its stories about amazing women, introduce you to the culinary traditions of nearly 40 nations around the world, and tantalize your taste buds, then RECIPES FROM THE ROAD is the book for you.

Reviewed by Stacey Seay
The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers

Nice book of this type depicting Washington DC. This one is better than most because the pictures are large and there's some unique perspectives. The only downside is there are so many books of this type it's hard to tell them apart. I've seen other works by this pair and they always do a nice job displaying their subject.

I have visited Washington, D.C. several times, by myself and with my family. This book has the best photographic coverage of Washington in one cover that I have seen. The captions for the photographs are accurate and helpful. If you go on the Washington by Dark bus tours, this book is better than the photos most of us take for the monuments. You can save your film for pictures of your friends or family at the sites during the day. Additionally, the preface history of Washington is interesting and concise. I heartily recommend this photo essay to any Washington, D.C. visitor.