City That Was is a compelling exploration of the history and evolution of a once vibrant city that has fallen into decline. Stephen Smith delves into the reasons behind the city's decline, from economic shifts to social upheaval, tracing the gradual decay that has left a once bustling metropolis in ruins.

Smith's in-depth research and vivid storytelling bring the city's past to life, painting a vivid picture of what once was and what now remains. The book offers a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the inevitable changes that come with it, posing important questions about the future of urban areas struggling with decline.

With a mix of personal anecdotes, historical facts, and expert analysis, City That Was is a thought-provoking read that will resonate with anyone interested in urban planning, history, or the impact of societal change on cities. Smith's poignant writing style and keen eye for detail make this a must-read for anyone who has ever lived in or loved a place that has experienced transformation over time.

Book Description:
This 1911 history of the public health revolution that transformed New York City in the nineteenth century is also about every city and town of the world and the sanitary challenges that each encountered. Stephen Smith was an American surgeon and a pioneer in public health. “The story of a great life-saving social revolution, the mightiest in the nineteenth century and one of the most momentous in the history of civilization, is told here for the first time. It is told from the standpoint of the transformation of the City of New York, by a chief actor in the event.” Chapter four, New York The Unclean, is the heart of this work.