Using the East Baltimore community as an example this book examines historical and current rebuilding practices in abandoned communities in urban America, their structural causes, and outcomes on the health of the place and the people. The role of community organizing as a necessary means to assure benefit during and after resident displacement, its challenges and successes, are described in the context of a current eminent domain-driven rebuilding project in East Baltimore.

Baltimore, Maryland, is a city full of history and cultural diversity. However, through the years, the area has been plagued with poverty and forced gentrification that has left the once bustling city in a state of disarray. There are over 16,000 vacant rowhomes within Baltimore. Crime rate is on a rise while population is on decline. Through all the mayhem, many incredible places have been simply disregarded and forgotten about. Many streets that were once full of life now resemble an apocalyptic wasteland. The north side of Baltimore, away from the Chesapeake Bay and industrial side that the city is known for, is home to many interesting abandoned buildings, including schools, churches, asylums, and more. Through the lens, photographer Christopher Hall sets out to showcase and bring awareness to these incredible structures that have been forgotten. His work takes you inside the dilapidated places where few venture. Join Christopher on his visual journey through time as he explores what has been abandoned on the north side of Baltimore City.

Series statement taken from publisher's webesite.

Baltimore's Two Cross Keys Villages is about two communities virtually next door to one another. As one was dying, the other was born. Cross Keys Village (named after a nearby inn) was established by African Americans in north Baltimore. Forty years ago, in a surprise rush to urban renewal, the city condemned and tore down most of the homes to make room for a high school parking lot. Author Jim Holechek interviewed many of the former residents of the old Cross Keys Village to learn what life was like in their disappearing enclave. The Village of Cross Keys (named after the village that was named after the inn) was begun by developer James Rouse in 1961 when he purchased Roland Park's exclusive golf course. He was called the "Sunday School teacher with a Midas touch" and became America's premier builder of new towns and shopping malls. In Baltimore's Two Cross Keys Villages, you'll learn about the tapestry of other hamlets and other people, of "The Falls Road," Mt. Washington, Bare Hills and Ruxton, an 1835 log chapel and a woman who carries on the heritage of the slave Tobias. Brief comments from those who read Baltimore's Two Cross Keys Villages: "Terrific!" -John McGrain, Official Baltimore Country Historian; "Must be published" -Sarah Fenno Lord; "Important Maryland history" -Thomas Mallonee, advertising executive; "Marvelous memories" -Paul M. Johnson, retired school principal; "Warm and engrossing"-Holly Parker; "Captivating!" -W. Scott Ditch, retired Rouse Company vice president.