Magic Motorways

Geddes, Norman Bel

Published by Random House, New York, NY, 1940

297 pages, illustrated in black & white throughout. Norman Bel Geddes (1893 - 1958) American scene and lighting designer, industrial designer, and producer, ".remarkably versatile . Despite his preference for architectural settings, he could also design effectively in the naturalistic mode…Geddes is credited with designing over 200 theatrical productions marked by both the quality of each design and the diversity of works represented." (James Fisher in the ANB) Geddes ".disseminated his ideas about the future of traffic in U.S. cities with his book Magic Motorways (New York: Ransom House, 1940), announcing that "there are too many cars" and proposing a more tempered approach to their accommodation, including still-valid ideas such as mini-cars for city driving, suburban subway systems, and "park and ride" areas for commuters living outside the city s core. Although reviewers primarily focused on Geddes s vision of an automated highway system that effectively allowed cars to drive themselves across the country in 24 hours, the book was sufficiently influential to have many of its ideas repeated (some verbatim and without credit) by the editors of Automotive Industries in a 1956 special report on the impact of a national superhighway program." (from the Ransom Library site abstract - the library holds many Bel Geddes papers) Previous owner inscription & name stamp on front endpaper. Approx. 8 1/4" x 10 1/2" size; hardcovers; no dustjacket. Light edge, tips wear & soiling to the binding; in very good condition. Seller Inventory # 029711

Bibliographic Details

Title: Magic Motorways
Publisher: Random House, New York, NY
Publication Date: 1940
Binding: Hard Cover
Condition: Very Good
Edition: First Printing.