When you embark on a Cats About Town walking tour, you're diving into the rich history of New York City's cats, brought to life by Peggy Gavan. Peggy is more than just a tour guide; she is an accomplished author, dedicated historian, and passionate storyteller. Her extensive knowledge and enthusiasm make each tour a unique and engaging experience. Let's get to know Peggy Gavan, the woman behind these captivating cat tales.
A Passion for History and Cats
Peggy Gavan's love for history and cats is evident in everything she does. With a background in journalism and a profound curiosity for New York City's lesser-known stories, Peggy has dedicated more than 20 years to researching and uncovering the city's feline past. Her journey began in 2002 with the discovery of the French Hatching Cat story, inspiring her to explore and share more animal tales from New York's history.
Author of "The Hatching Cat NYC" and More
Author of "The Hatching Cat NYC" and More
Peggy is the author of The Hatching Cat NYC: True and Unusual Animal Tales of Old New York, a book that explores the rich and often surprising history of cats and other animals in New York City from the 1800s to the 1940s. Her first book, “The Cat Men of Gotham: Tales of Feline Friendships in Old New York,” won a 2019 Muse Medallion from the Cat Writers’ Association. Peggy's upcoming book, “The Bravest Pets of Gotham: Tales of Four-Legged Firefighters of Old New York” (September 2024), features more than 100 stories about the fire horses, dogs, cats, and other FDNY animal mascots.
Bringing History to Life
What sets Peggy apart is her ability to bring history to life through her engaging storytelling. On a Cats About Town tour, you'll find yourself transported back in time as she recounts tales of legendary cats and their human companions. Her storytelling is not just informative but also entertaining, making history accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
The Creation of Cats About Town
Inspired by her extensive research and love for New York City's history, Peggy co-founded Cats About Town with Dan Rimada of Bodega Cats of New York. This collaboration aims to create a unique experience that blends history with the charm of New York's feline residents. The tours are designed to be fun, engaging, and educational, providing a unique perspective on the city's history through the eyes of its beloved cats.
What to Expect on a Tour
When you join a Cats About Town tour, you can expect a journey filled with intriguing stories, historical insights, and a lot of fun. Peggy leads tours through various iconic and lesser-known locations in New York City, each with its own captivating cat tales. Her tours are not just walks—they are immersive experiences that offer a new perspective on the city's history.
A Personal Touch
Peggy's tours are known for their personal touch. She takes the time to connect with each participant, sharing her passion and knowledge in a way that is both engaging and memorable. Whether you're a dedicated cat enthusiast, a history buff, or someone looking for a unique way to explore New York City, Peggy's tours offer something special.
