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John King

Portal: San Francisco's Ferry Building and the Reinvention of American Cities

Portal: San Francisco's Ferry Building and the Reinvention of American Cities

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  • More about Portal: San Francisco's Ferry Building and the Reinvention of American Cities

The Ferry Building, once San Francisco's iconic gateway, was disconnected from the city by the rise of cars and double-deck roads. This narrative explores the building's rise, fall, and rebirth, highlighting the tensions between tourism and development and the threat of sea level rise.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 17 November 2023
Publisher: WW Norton & Co


The Ferry Building, a magnificent structure conceived during the Gilded Age, emerged as San Francisco's gateway to the world in 1898. It symbolized the city's civic ambition, serving as the terminus of the transcontinental railway and a breathtaking showcase of architectural prowess. The soaring clocktower, an iconic symbol of the city, graced silent films and World's Fair postcards, instantly conveying the essence of San Francisco. However, the advent of cars and double-deck roads caused a significant divide, severing the city from its beloved landmark.

Architectural critic John King takes us on a captivating journey through the rise, fall, and rebirth of the Ferry Building. He introduces a colorful cast of characters who valiantly fought to preserve the building's character and the soul of the city. These figures include architect Arthur Page Brown, legendary columnist Herb Caen, poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti, and Senator Dianne Feinstein. The Ferry Building serves as a microcosm of the evolving American waterfront, exploring the delicate balance between tourism and development. It also sheds light on the imminent threat posed by sea level rise to a landmark that remains as vital and significant in the twenty-first century as it ever was.

The Ferry Building's history is a testament to the resilience and determination of the people who love and cherish it. It stands as a symbol of San Francisco's rich heritage and a reminder of the importance of preserving our architectural treasures for future generations. As we navigate the challenges of urbanization and climate change, let us continue to celebrate the Ferry Building and other iconic landmarks that define our cities and inspire us.

Weight: 610g
Dimension: 161 x 236 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781324020325

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