The book takes the reader on a century's journey through downtown Cleveland's most important gathering space, Public Square. It highlights the many architectural and structural changes that occurred in and around the Public Square environs and recalls the many events that drew Clevelanders to the Square throughout the century. It argues that the trajectory of the Square has mirrored that of the city. When the city's fortunes have flourished, so did those of the Square. When the city fell on hard times, these were echoed in the Square. Public Square has been a microcosm of Cleveland's promise and a reflection of what Clevelanders value.