Seeking New York by Tom Miller

Book Jacket for
Seeking New York: The Stories Behind the Historic Architecture of Manhattan - One Building at a Time by Tom Miller

On a rainy and muggy Tuesday evening I made my way over to The General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen of the City of New York on 44th Street to attend a talk sponsored by The New York Landmarks Conservancy. Tom Miller, the author of one of my favorite blogs, A Daytonian in New York, has authored a wonderful new book Seeking New York: The Stories Behind the Historic Architecture of Manhattan - One Building at a Time published by Rizzoli, and he shared interesting stories of some of his favorite buildings along with the history and backstories that one is often unaware of. He writes daily, save for Sunday's and to date has profiled over 1600 buildings. The book showcases 50 buildings and is illustrated with photos as well as delightful pen and ink illustrations.

I have been in touch with Tom over the years, sharing a number of paintings that I'd done of buildings he has profiled. It was a pleasure meeting him in person and I went home with my very own signed copy of his book.

The building in which the talk took place has an interesting history as well. Here is a photo showcasing the sculpture of an arm wielding a hammer next to a beautiful Tiffany window.

As I left the sun had come out and was casting glorious golden shadows on the buildings lining the street. Took a few photos and think there might be a painting or two down the road.