Join us and local authors Natalie Pompilio and Christopher W. Lane to celebrate their book that is as informative as it is beautiful. Everyone is sure to appreciate this book, whether you’re new to the city or an old friend.
About the Book
Historic Maps of Philadelphia:
Since its founding in the 1680s, Philadelphia has been a city on the move. What began as a small British colony grew to become the capitol of a new nation and is now home to 1.6 million people. All of its changes have been documented by maps—hundreds, perhaps thousands of them—with each telling a unique story shaped by their makers’ understanding of the world.
It’s impossible to tell the history of a place without the use of maps. This curated collection uses maps as primary sources to document Philadelphia’s evolution. It starts with the Indigenous Lenni Lenape, who called this area home for generations. It ends in the mid-20th century, diring th egrowth of the nation’s highway system. In between, these maps chart the growth of industries, historic injustices, unexpected innovations, and moments of celebration.
Authors Natalie Pompilio and Christopher W. Lane have created a book that is as informative as it is beautiful. Each map is accompanied by illustrations and photos that provide details and context. Those who know the city well will find something surprising in its text. Those who are only just getting acquainted with Philadelphia will want to know more.
About the Authors
Natalie Pompilio is a journalist who has called Philadelphia home for more than 20 years. She is the author or coauthor of Philadelphia Murals and the Stories They Tell; Philadelphia A to Z; Walking Philadelphia: 30 Walking Tours Exploring Art, Architecture, History, and Little-Known Gems; This Used to Be Philadelphia; and Philadelphia: A Walk Through History.
Christopher W. Lane has worked in antique maps and prints for more than 40 years. He’s come to be recognized as an expert in this field, as evidenced by his 22-year stint as print and map expert on PBS’s Antiques Roadshow. He’s written scholarly catalogues, articles, and books, including the Ewell Newman Award-winning Parorama of Pittsburgh.