2010 edition of the “Encyclopedia of New York City” edited by Kenneth Jackson

Everything you've ever wanted to know about the nation's most fascinating city is now available in this authoritative and entertaining one-volume encyclopedia. The only comprehensive reference work on New York City ever compiled, it covers subjects throughout the five boroughs from prehistory to the present.

The book consists of more than 4000 entries in alphabetical order by more than 650 contributors, along with 680 illustrations and maps, some drawn especially for the encyclopedia. Among the topics covered by the encyclopedia are architecture, government and politics, business, religion, weather, the arts, education, transport, the law, science and medicine, and sports and recreation. Entries reflect the city's colorful inhabitants, past and present, describing a wide range of neighborhoods and immigrant groups as well as such varied figures as Bella Abzug, Woody Allen, Mother Cabrini, Lou Gehrig, Emma Goldman, John Gotti, Billie Holiday, Langston Hughes, Donna Karan, Captain Kidd, Miguel Piñero, Adam Clayton Powell, Nelson Rockefeller, Big Tim Sullivan, and Andy Warhol.

The encyclopedia displays the richness and diversity of New York City as they have never before been documented. Overseen by an editorial board composed of distinguished scholars and experts and edited by one of the leading urban historians in the nation, it is an indispensable resource for residents and visitors alike.

http://yalepress.yale.edu/yupbooks/book.asp?isbn=0300055366