A thrilling portrait of ironworkers, High Steel takes you through a journey that unveils the courage and resilience of the men who construct the breathtaking skyline of New York. This book provides a compelling perspective on the history of steel construction, witnessing the evolution from Chicago to the present day. From the early inception of skyscrapers to the booming ironwork years, it tracks the lives of various generations and ethnic groups.
The narrative intricately details the personal experiences of ironworkers, highlighting their deadly profession, where every day demands balancing on swaying girders as narrow as six inches. This glimpse into their world reveals a mixture of bravery, craftsmanship, and the risks involved, with tales ranging from monumental achievements to heartbreaking disasters.
Among the notable events covered in the book is the tragic Quebec Bridge Collapse of 1907, claiming the lives of seventy-five ironworkers, including thirty-three Mohawk Indians. Rasenberger paints a vivid picture of this often underappreciated workforce that has shaped the American landscape, intertwining their stories with architectural triumphs and catastrophic events.
This book isn't just a history lesson—it's a testament to a forgotten craft that has underpinned the American economy for over a century. With praises from various critics, it is described as a "beautifully written" account that engages readers while celebrating the romance and adventure of those who dare to work at impossible heights.
Join Rasenberger as he chronicles this exciting narrative, offering an accessible and captivating look into the lives of ironworkers—heroes who have remained largely unrecognized.
