New Book: The Baron of Second Avenue, Nicholas Calamaras of Anavryti
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Carol Kostakos Petranek
Jul 6, 2025, 4:26:55 PMJul 6
to Modern Greek Studies List
Nicholas Calamaras, one of the early Greeks from Anavryit, Lakonia, to migrate to America, is the subject of a book recently published:
The Baron of Second Avenue: Nicholas Calamaras and the Archive of the Greek-
American League, A Glimpse into the Greek Immigration Experience in New York.
Edited, with an introduction by, Dean G. Calamaras
In 1895, Nicholas and 3 brothers traveled to Bordeaux, France, where they obtained passage to New York. Like many who followed them, these men were able to accumulate money to start businesses. Nicholas additionally founded an organization to promote the betterment of the growing Greek community, the Greek-American League. Most such organizations served the spiritual needs of newcomers, taught English or citizenship, or aided their native villages. The Greek-American League – which Nicholas led for 20 years – uniquely sought the political and economic benefit of his people.
The Baron of Second Avenue: Nicholas Calamaras and the Archive of the Greek-
American League, A Glimpse into the Greek Immigration Experience in New York.
Edited, with an introduction by, Dean G. Calamaras
In 1895, Nicholas and 3 brothers traveled to Bordeaux, France, where they obtained passage to New York. Like many who followed them, these men were able to accumulate money to start businesses. Nicholas additionally founded an organization to promote the betterment of the growing Greek community, the Greek-American League. Most such organizations served the spiritual needs of newcomers, taught English or citizenship, or aided their native villages. The Greek-American League – which Nicholas led for 20 years – uniquely sought the political and economic benefit of his people.
This book is the first account of the activities of the Greek-American League. It displays the full contents of Nicholas’ archive: correspondence and legal papers 1912-1934. and the writer’s description of their social, historical and political context. Also included are: an annotated Index to all those documents, a separate Index of over 100 Greek Names appearing in documents, and a selection of pictures highlighting Nicholas’ life and achievements.
Although available on Amazon and at selected bookstores, this paperback book is most economically purchased on the author’s web site: www.calamarasbooks.com for $34.95 + $6.70 shipping.
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