Description
Book SynopsisTrade Review"This is a broad story of urban change from 19th century industrialization to 21st century gentrification through the narrow lens of one building in Jersey City. It served as a tobacco factory and warehouse, deteriorated it was revived by artists who used its vast spaces for studios and (illegal) residences. Purchased by a real estate developer who forced the artists out, it was demolished and replaced by residential towers for the wealthy. A local social, cultural, and political history reflecting global trends, fueled by an argument for architectural preservation and the value of the arts, it should be read by those interested in the past and future of all cities." -- -Maxine N. Lurie Professor emeritas, History Department, Seton Hall University "Goodwin tells the gripping but sad tale of 111 First Street-a Jersey City tobacco factory that found its second life as a thriving arts community. Along the way, we meet eccentric artists, Russian mobsters, corrupt cops, greedy developers, and this being Jersey CIty, dysfunctional politicians. There's a cameo by a cast member of the Sopranos, arson, political backstabbing, earnest activists and a final act starring internationally-acclaimed architect Rem Koolhaus. But in the end, the story is a true tragedy. Goodwin questions the place of culture and history in a living city and in the process, carves out a piece of both for the reader." -- -Helene Stapinski author of Five-Finger Discount: A Crooked Family History
Table of ContentsIntroduction: Why Does 111 1st Street Matter? Chapter 1: The Lorillard Legacy Chapter 2: Crossing the Hudson Chapter 3: The Spaces in Between Chapter 4: Who Owns a Space? Chapter 5: When a Dream Dies Chapter 6: One Last Fight: Historical Preservation & 111 1st Street Chapter 7: What Might be Learned Conclusion: Some Years Later Epilogue: The 111 1st Street Exodus: Where Are They Now? Bibliography
