"At the end of the nineteenth century, in the newly created city of Chatham, the possibilities seemed endless and almost utopian. Gone were the ramshackle wooden shacks that dominated its early days, and in their place were stately homes made of brick and stone. Taverns, mills, mercantile stores, mechanics' shops, shipbuilders, and iron foundries blossomed and flourished. Tall and small ships crowded the banks of the bustling Thames River, which had become Chatham's lifeline to the world. Such is the Chatham presented in this volume, which contains nearly two hundred striking images gleaned from personal and public collections. Many of these items, some published here for the first time, serve to present a stunning and fascinating commemorative pictorial album of Chatham's rich history. They will encourage readers to take a stroll on Tecumseh Park's lovers' lane, to board a grand steamer for an exciting river excursion, to prowl a King Street teeming with bicycles, horses, and carts, and to take a ride on those strange new horseless carriages. Jim and Lisa Gilbert are award-winning educators and historians. Their lifelong passion has been bringing to life the history of Southwestern Ontario through radio programs, newspaper columns, books, and living-history festivals. They are very pleased to be able to share with you stories and images of the historic city of Chatham. Book jacket."--BOOK JACKET.