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Praise for "Cream City Chronicles"
"This book of newspaper columns penned by Gurda is a perfect complement to 'The Making of Milwaukee.' Instead of trying to tell it all, these essays focus on the interesting, the unique and the important. Fascinating tidbits that can be read sporadically or in one sitting." —Bobby Tanzilo, OnMilwaukee.com "No living person knows more about Milwaukee's past than John Gurda, and 'Cream City Chronicles' readily displays his gifts as a historian and a writer. Balancing narrative with commentary, Gurda supplies historical contexts for the newest landmarks, the latest ethnic shift, and the freshest scandal. Rooted solidly in the sources — but just as solidly in a native son's deep affection for his home town — these short pieces show that telling good stories and writing meaningful history are not mutually exclusive. 'Cream City Chronicles' is must reading for anyone who truly wants to understand and appreciate Milwaukee's rich heritage." —James Marten, Professor of History, Marquette University "John Gurda's reach into Milwaukee's story is so deep it can be said he met co-founder Byron Kilbourn in person at the old scallywag's burial. That it was Kilbourn's re-interment in 1998, not his first burial in far off exile 128 years earlier, matters not at all. No Milwaukee writer today better knows this city's yesterdays, and no one more clearly explains how what was then led to what is now. 'Cream City Chronicles' is aptly named; these snapshots, like handsome bricks stacked one on another, build an enduring portrait of Milwaukee." —Dennis McCann, Columnist, "Milwaukee Journal Sentinel" "John Gurda's 'Cream City Chronicles' is not only a richly evocative history of the city of Milwaukee but, in the tradition of the great cultural geographers of generations' past, is also a reflection of the uniqueness of place. While emphasizing the story in history Gurda shares the drama of struggles for control and expansion along with captivating tales of the city's first sweethearts, its singing mayors and infinitely more. Taken together, Gurda's stories present not merely the outline but the essence of a proud and ever changing city." —David McDaniel, Assistant Professor of History, Carroll College "The name John Gurda is synonymous with Milwaukee history. The author of several well-regarded book-length histories, he now gives us a chance to enjoy some of his best short stories, culled from his popular monthly 'Milwaukee Journal Sentinel' column. He shares with us new slants on stories that are well-known and introduces us to new personalities and events that have shaped Milwaukee's history. 'Cream City Chronicles' is perfect for classroom use or for anyone interested in Milwaukee history delivered in small, digestible bites. I recommend it highly." —Timothy L. Ericson, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee "For the last twelve years, John Gurda's monthly column in the 'Milwaukee Journal Sentinel' has provided residents of Southeastern Wisconsin with accounts of famous figures, interesting events, and popular places from the city's history. While fascinating reading in and of themselves, Gurda's columns have also served a higher purpose: they have been useful. By providing precedents and historical context for contemporary issues facing the community, the author has helped to inform discussion of these matters. In doing so, he has demonstrated on a regular and continuing basis the value and importance of local history." —Robert T. Teske, Executive Director, Milwaukee County Historical Society "John Gurda begins with recent events in Milwaukee's history and finds their past origins. His accounts of facts of the past are treated sensitively, and he interprets their meaning with unique observations. These stories will last as long as there is a Milwaukee." —Frank Zeidler, Former mayor of Milwaukee
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