Special Celebratory Book Launch of The General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen of the City of New York: A History

• Books & Literature
• Design & Architecture
• Free
• History

A celebratory book launch and special presentation of The General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen of the City of New York: A History will take place on Wednesday, June 3rd. The book, written by Polly Guerin, engagingly details the 230-year history of the organization, and explores how The General Society’s significant past is interwoven with the development of New York City. Ms. Guerin will outline some of the memorable highlights of The General Society’s history. Admission to the event is free and will be followed by a reception.

Since 1785, when it was founded by 22 Artisans under the memorable banner of “By Hammer and Hand All Arts Do Stand,” prominent General Society members, such as Duncan Phyfe, Abram S. Hewitt, Peter Cooper and Andrew Carnegie have played a pivotal role in the City’s physical and cultural expansion.

The book details how The General Society continues to be as relevant today as it was in 1785. Situated in a New York City Landmark building, The Society continues to improve the lives of New Yorkers, while fostering an innovative and inventive spirit through its educational and cultural programs. These include the tuition-free Mechanics Institute, The General Society Library, and its century old Lecture Series.

Polly Guerin is a former adjunct professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and the author of four college textbooks and two video productions. This is her second book for the History Press. Ms. Guerin’s features on the decorative arts, antiques, collectibles and designs have appeared in Arts & Antique Magazine and other consumer publications. She also writes on Fashion and Art Deco and is currently the author of four blogs including: “Pollytalk from New York.”

To attend this special event, please RSVP to [email protected]

About The General Society:

The General Society of Mechanics and Tradesmen of the City of New York, a non-profitable organization was founded in 1785 by the skilled craftsmen of the City. Today this 228-year old organization continues to serve and improve the quality life of the people of the City of New York through its educational, philanthropic and cultural programs including its tuition-free Mechanics Institute, The General Society Library and its nearly 200 year old lecture series.