The Cat Men of Gotham Tales of Feline Friendships in Old New York

The Cat Men of Gotham: Tales of Feline Friendships in Old New York by Peggy Gavan, published by Rutgers University Press on May 3, 2019, offers a unique exploration of the relationships between men and cats in 19th-century New York City. This 274-page book delves into the lives of various individuals, including firemen, cops, and politicians, who rescued stray cats from dire circumstances, providing a glimpse into a time when feline overpopulation was a significant issue.
Readers will discover a collection of forty-two profiles that highlight both the heroic men and their extraordinary feline companions. The narratives include remarkable stories of cats that transformed from humble strays into celebrated mascots and beloved pets, showcasing the bond between humans and animals. With themes of history, humor, and animal rights, The Cat Men of Gotham presents a captivating journey through the streets of Manhattan and Brooklyn, revealing the profound connections that shaped the lives of both people and their pets.
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Winner of the 2019 Certificate of Excellence and MUSE Medallion from the Cat Writers Association
The nineteenth century was a rough time to be a stray cat in New York City. The city’s human residents dealt with feline overpopulation by gassing unwanted cats or tossing them in rivers. But a few lucky strays were found by a diverse array of men—including firemen, cops, athletes, and politicians—who rescued them from the streets and welcomed them into their homes and hearts.
This book tells the stories of these heroic cat men of Gotham and their beloved feline companions. Not only does it introduce us to some remarkable men, but we get to meet many extraordinary cats as well, from Chinese stowaways prowling the Chelsea Piers to the sole feline survivor of the USS Maine explosion. Among the forty-two profiles, we find many feline Cinderella stories, as humble alley cats achieved renown as sports team mascots, artists’ muses, and even presidential pets.
Sure to appeal to cat fanciers and history fans alike, The Cat Men of Gotham will give you a new appreciation for Old New York and the people and animals who made it their home. As it takes you on a journey through the streets of Manhattan and Brooklyn, it will amuse and astound you with tales of powerful men and their pussycats.
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