In a sweeping narrative that speaks to the serious student of urban
studies as well as the general reader, Mark Goldman tells the story
of twentieth-century Buffalo, New York. Goldman covers all of the
major developments:
• The rise and decline of the city’s downtown and ethnic
neighborhoods
• The impact of racial change and suburbanization
• The role and function of the arts in the life of the community
• Urban politics, urban design, and city planning
While describing the changes that so drastically altered the form,
function, and character of the city, Goldman, through detailed
descriptions of special people and special places, gives a sense
of intimacy and immediacy to these otherwise impersonal historical
forces. City on the Edge unflinchingly documents and describes
how Buffalo has been battered by the tides of history. But it also
describes the unique characteristics that have encouraged an
innovative cultural climate, including Buffalo’s dynamic survival
instinct that continues to lead to a surprisingly and inspiringly high
quality of community life. Finally, it offers a road map, which—if
followed—could point the way to a new and exciting future for
this long-troubled city.
CITY ON THE EDGE
Mark Goldman
CITY
ON
THE
EDGE
BUFFALO, NEW YORK