Sir, it is obvious that you've been honing your (writing) craft over these 3 years... well-written, well-paced, engaging, and informative. A few minutes of my time, and now so much better informed. Thank you. (and yes, I'm inspired to visit... the last time was 1987 I think, so mission accomplished).
Thanks David! 1987 was the year my family moved to Philly burbs, and the city has changed so much since then. I really don’t think you’ll find better restaurants for the price and neighborhood feel anywhere in the world! I’ve traveled too. The Arts scene is great with the Kimmel Center and various playhouses, and it’s truly walkable. Let me know if you visit and I’ll help with ideas :)
Thanks KB, it’s not a professional tour but it’s “my Philly” historical medical tour. You’re right, so many racist subplots to the whole era, and beyond. I recall reading that people thought AA were les subscribe to yellow fever, so they were relegated to taking care of many of the sick and dying and other city essentials. Will read that article, thanks!
I’m excited that you’ll visit sometime! Great regional roots for your wife here. Growing up I was lucky to have friends in south Jersey whose families had summer places in OC, LBI, and Stone Harbor. I’ll come back to read your linked articles later this week, it’s been one of those at work. Thanks for the interest and let me know if you need suggestions while visiting someday :)
Ryan, I have to admit that I read your essay with one eye focussed on the history and one eye focussed on the writer- your good self. I was educated by the former and impressed by the latter. I saw a humane, perceptive intelligence at work; an essential kindliness looking out at the world. Admirable writing and admirable writer. Quantum ad admirandum.
I’m so appreciative of that comment, Michael, thank you sincerely. It really is humbling to run past the mass grave that is now beautiful Washington Square, and the reminders all over of our common struggles and triumphs. I think historical cities anywhere really conjure a collective memory. Was in Bruges for a couple days this summer and though a little precious touristy, I really felt connected to the lives of centuries of people as I learned about them in the museums and walked some of their old narrow alleys. Thanks for stopping by :)
This is an OUTSTANDING article!!! Thank you.
This is SO interesting. Philadelphia sounds like an amazing place to visit!
Sir, it is obvious that you've been honing your (writing) craft over these 3 years... well-written, well-paced, engaging, and informative. A few minutes of my time, and now so much better informed. Thank you. (and yes, I'm inspired to visit... the last time was 1987 I think, so mission accomplished).
Thanks David! 1987 was the year my family moved to Philly burbs, and the city has changed so much since then. I really don’t think you’ll find better restaurants for the price and neighborhood feel anywhere in the world! I’ve traveled too. The Arts scene is great with the Kimmel Center and various playhouses, and it’s truly walkable. Let me know if you visit and I’ll help with ideas :)
Excellent story! A great narrative of a stroll as seen in your eyes. Want to talk that walk myself! (or is that walk the talk?)
Read and studied the Yellow Fever epidemic, the story would not be complete without the role of African-American and racism. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smithsonian-institution/how-politics-race-played-out-during-1793-yellow-fever-epidemic-180977133/
Thanks KB, it’s not a professional tour but it’s “my Philly” historical medical tour. You’re right, so many racist subplots to the whole era, and beyond. I recall reading that people thought AA were les subscribe to yellow fever, so they were relegated to taking care of many of the sick and dying and other city essentials. Will read that article, thanks!
I found this article immensely fascinating on two levels: first, I am very interested in Victorian-era medicine (https://theskepticalcardiologist.com/2015/06/11/far-from-the-madding-crowd-doctoring-in-literature/) and Dickens's doctors (https://theskepticalcardiologist.com/2019/06/20/how-to-be-a-victorian-doctor-the-importance-of-portent/) in particular and second, my wife grew up in south New Jersey shore area and went to Villanova and has been for some time trying to induce me to visit Philadelphia with her.
After reading of your walk I am eager to visit Philadelphia!
I’m excited that you’ll visit sometime! Great regional roots for your wife here. Growing up I was lucky to have friends in south Jersey whose families had summer places in OC, LBI, and Stone Harbor. I’ll come back to read your linked articles later this week, it’s been one of those at work. Thanks for the interest and let me know if you need suggestions while visiting someday :)
Ryan, I have to admit that I read your essay with one eye focussed on the history and one eye focussed on the writer- your good self. I was educated by the former and impressed by the latter. I saw a humane, perceptive intelligence at work; an essential kindliness looking out at the world. Admirable writing and admirable writer. Quantum ad admirandum.
I’m so appreciative of that comment, Michael, thank you sincerely. It really is humbling to run past the mass grave that is now beautiful Washington Square, and the reminders all over of our common struggles and triumphs. I think historical cities anywhere really conjure a collective memory. Was in Bruges for a couple days this summer and though a little precious touristy, I really felt connected to the lives of centuries of people as I learned about them in the museums and walked some of their old narrow alleys. Thanks for stopping by :)