Ian Frazier on George W. S. Trow's "Eclectic, Reminiscent, Amused, Fickle, Perverse"
Briefly

George William Swift Trow, Jr., affectionately known as Swift, was an influential figure whose quick wit and deep understanding of New York history greatly impacted those around him. The author reflects on their friendship with Trow, emphasizing his role in introducing them to New York's rich heritage. Trow's family history is intertwined with the city's past, and his storytelling offered valuable insights into Old New York. A staff writer for The New Yorker beginning in 1966, Trow contributed significantly to cultural discussions and showcased his love for music, particularly R&B, throughout his career.
"George's ancestor looked at the boat through a telescope and said, 'My God, they've shot Alex Hamilton!' It's not an exaggeration to say that all my visceral knowledge of old New York derives from that sentence."
"George made me a New Yorker, imparting both history and the essence of the city to me through his stories and experiences."
Read at The New Yorker
[
|
]