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Hoboken Talks: Paul Drexel, Hoboken-born writer, talks with Bob Foster
August 23, 2022 @ 12:00 am
Join us online Thursday, August 25 at 7pm for Hoboken Talks, when Hoboken-born writer, journalist and art-scene creator Paul Drexel is interviewed live by Bob Foster. Participate using the “Chat” feature on YouTube or Facebook.
Paul Drexel was born in Hoboken in January, 1959. Paul, along with his three older brothers, Rob, Tom and Rich, his parents Alfred and Virginia, and his grandmother, Agnes, lived at 935 Willow Ave, above the legendary Uptown Cafe. The bar was a haven for the hardworking men who labored their days at Maxwell House, Bethlehem Shipyard, Ferguson Propeller, Colgate Palmolive, Hostess, Guild Guitars, the “coffin” factory and a plethora of other businesses that were part of the fabric of Hoboken.
Paul attended Brandt School up until the eighth grade and then, St. Peter’s Prep. His father, Al, was an artist who ran the art program in the Hoboken schools for over 30 years and taught evening painting classes at Cooper Union. Paul’s mother, Ginny, worked at Davidson’s Laboratory on the Steven’s Campus. Paul’s grandmother, Agnes, worked for the City of Hoboken for over 50 years. Suffice to say, Paul’s roots in the Mile Square City extend back for generations.
Paul’s work as a writer and journalist have been recognized by many publications and professional organizations. As a journalist, he has received numerous awards from the Society of Professional Journalists, and his short stories (Including his collection Mango Shoes) and other writings have been lauded too.
Paul was also the co-founder of the ORoe Electric Art Space (the old Monroe Electric storefront) in the 80’s. The ORoe was a launching pad for many artists in Hoboken from painting to music and a community center for inner city kids each summer. Publications like the Village Voice wrote articles acclaiming its remarkable blending in giving voice to extraordinary new talent, along with a commitment to the community they called home.
Paul has two children, Amelia and Owen, who are both in their 20s and are also deeply proud of their Hoboken roots These days, Paul resides in Montclair, but still works in Hoboken. The Mile Square City is Paul’s muse and his stories an invaluable part of Hoboken’s history.
One additional note, Paul is also a two time winner of the top prize for the costumes he wore in the Ragamuffin Parade as a kid.
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