On a recent trip to NYC, I arranged two historical private tours with Kevin Draper of New York Historical Tours. My best girlfriend of many years and I were in town celebrating a big birthday and Hamilton was one of the activities on our itinerary. Thinking it would be helpful to have the history of Hamilton in NY, I reached out to Kevin and arranged a Founding Fathers Tour & the following day a Brooklyn Bridge and Brooklyn Heights tour.
So remarkable! Kevin was a wealth of information, beyond what we could have figured out on our own or even from a book. He is passionate about history and is a city native. We saw Hamilton and then the next morning met up with Kevin at Bowling Green at the tip of lower Manhattan where our tour began. This truly brought the days of Hamilton to life for us - remarkable to walk in the steps of these American Founders. I especially appreciated being able to ask questions and have well-informed answers - it helps me understand so many things. Kevin seemed to thrive on our genuine interest and shared additional sources, suggested venues and even a recommendation for our lunch, once knowing I was a francophile (La District - separate review coming soon).
Having travelled extensively through Europe, I have come to appreciate the value of a solid guide. We are able to see more than most people cover in a week. It costs to do this, but it also costs NOT to do this - the knowledge gained and places seen are worth their weight in gold. Given the state of our nation currently, I do find solace in history. Democracy is a struggle. Standing on the steps where George Washington was inaugurated - somehow gives me hope that the side of good and reason is going to win the current struggle. I appreciated talking with Kevin about these things. Yes, Kevin is a tour guide, but I think of him as my personal historian. He is personable, has a great sense of humor and enjoys what he does.
I honestly wished that we were staying a few more days so we could take a few more tours. Alas - next time! So grateful we did this - Thank you Kevin!