This is simply one of the best books I have read on the history of a city. Not a simple tour of neighborhoods, architecture or ethnic groups that settled in various enclaves of the city, but rather a comprehensive and intelligent look at a city from its earliest days, placed against the backdrop of its development in the region and history. the only comparable book on a city that i have read which is better from an economic and regional development standpoint is nature's metropolis about chicago. one wonders why we do not have more gems like these about all american cities. perhaps we would take better care of our hometowns if we knew more about their past from a thoughtful perspective. anyway, lion of the valley is superb.

j. martignon

Congratulations to all that contributed to this outstanding book. The history of the Places was carefully and completely researched and presented with beautiful photographs.