From 1915 to 1920, New York City transformed dramatically, both in its physical landscape and cultural identity. This period, building on the architectural revolution of the previous years, saw the city’s skyline further enhanced by the Woolworth Building. Completed in 1913, it was not only an architectural marvel with its Gothic style and staggering height of 792 feet but also a symbol of the city’s economic might and ambition. This era marked the beginning of New York’s journey towards becoming a modern metropolis, defined by towering skyscrapers and architectural innovation.
Infrastructure development kept pace with architectural feats. The New York City subway, operational since 1904, continued its expansion in this period, integrating more neighborhoods and bolstering the growth of the outer boroughs. Advancements in road and bridge construction, especially the progress on the Manhattan Bridge, further improved the city’s physical connectivity. These developments were crucial in knitting together a rapidly growing and increasingly diverse city.
Culturally, this era was a renaissance period for New York City. The arts scene thrived, with Broadway becoming a global center for theater and performance. This cultural explosion was partly fueled by the city’s diverse population, enriched by continuous waves of immigration. New Yorkers from various backgrounds contributed to a vibrant cultural landscape that encompassed music, art, and literature. Social and cultural dynamism also led to significant social reform movements, addressing issues like women’s suffrage, labor rights, and the welfare of a burgeoning working class.
Economically, despite setbacks like the Panic of 1910-1911, New York City continued to expand its role as a financial and industrial hub. The economic challenges of this period, though less severe than the 1907 crisis, prompted a focus on addressing urban issues such as housing shortages and the need for improved public services. These challenges highlighted the complexities of managing rapid urban development. The period of 1915 to 1920 was thus a crucible of change for New York City, setting the foundations for its 20th-century status as a global metropolis. The city’s evolution during these years, marked by architectural, cultural, and economic shifts, was instrumental in shaping its modern identity.
1915-1920 Timeline of New York City’s History, USA
An illustration depicting an elevated perspective of New York Harbor, buzzing with activity from many ships.
Aerial photograph of downtown Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridge spanning the East River.
Explore Luna Park's transformation from its 1903 opening to its iconic status, through George Grantham Bain's lens. Witness Coney Island's evolution.
Photograph shows a horse-drawn carriage and automobiles on a city street in strong sunlight.
Photograph of the corner of Broadway and Fulton Street. The Telephone and Telegraph Building was designed by architect William Welles Bosworth and opened in 1916.
General George R. Dyer, Benjamin Strong, Seward Prosser, J.P. Morgan, Charles H. Sabin, Gates McGarrah and Frank A. Venderlip at NYC's 3rd Liberty Loan Parade.
Photograph of military procession at Union Square drumming up support and enlistments for World War 1.
Photograph of parked cars, locked in place by piles of snow after a blizzard.
Photograph of female transit workers wearing face masks for protection from the highly contagious and deadly flu which was spread far and wide by the war.
Mask worn by a street cleaner to check influenza spread. The catch phrase of the New York Health Board to wear masks has been headed: "Better ridiculous than dead"
Photograph of a mailman wearing a face mask during the deadly avian flu which was sweeping the world.
Photograph of a policeman wearing a mask during the Spanish Flu pandemic. 1700 of these masks were distributed to police throughout the city for protection.
Photograph of the famous African American regiment arriving home - they never had one of their men captured, and received the Croix de Guerre for their bravery.
Photograph of crowds waiting for the parade of the famous 369th Infantry (Harlem Hellfighters).
Some of the men of the 369th Infantry Regiment (aka Harlem Hellfighters) who won the Croix de Guerre for gallantry in action.
1915: Founded by Alfred A. Knopf Sr. and Blanche Knopf in 1915, Alfred A. Knopf, Inc., quickly became a cornerstone of New York City's literary scene. Starting with a $5,000 investment from Samuel Knopf, it set up in the Candler Building and was incorporated in 1918, symbolizing a new era in publishing quality literature. This move not only solidified the company’s foundation but also its influence in transforming NYC into a pivotal hub for the publishing industry, fostering a rich literary community.
Knopf's establishment played a critical role in enhancing NYC's cultural stature, drawing authors, talents, and professionals, thereby bolstering the city's prominence as a literary and publishing epicenter. Its dedication to excellence since 1915 has profoundly impacted the literary realm, elevating the city’s historical and cultural landscape to new heights. The publisher's legacy continues to resonate, underpinning the city's status as an indispensable center for literary arts.
1915: During the IRT Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line's construction on September 22, 1915, between 24th and 25th Streets in NYC, two explosions triggered a catastrophic collapse. This event swallowed vehicles, including a passenger-laden streetcar, and resulted in seven fatalities, mainly tunnel workers, alongside dozens of injuries. It severely disrupted city traffic for weeks, spotlighting the risks inherent in the "cut-and-cover" subway construction method.
Prompted by the calamity, NYC officials, under Mayor John Purroy Mitchel, enforced tighter construction safety protocols, mandating extra supports at excavation sites and limiting heavy trucking to avert similar incidents. This tragic episode not only affected those involved but also significantly influenced NYC's construction safety regulations, advancing safer infrastructure development practices.
1915: The official flag of New York City, adopted on April 6, 1915, pays homage to the city's Dutch origins through a tricolor of blue, white, and orange. It proudly displays the city's seal, symbolizing NYC's rich heritage and growth. This pivotal year also witnessed the completion of the Catskill Water System, a testament to the city's dedication to public health and infrastructure by tapping into fresh water from the Catskill Mountains.
These milestones highlight NYC's evolution from its colonial beginnings to a vibrant modern metropolis, seamlessly merging tradition with innovation. The flag serves as a tangible link to its historical legacy, while the water system stands as a beacon of progress in urban planning and public welfare. Together, they encapsulate NYC's journey of honoring its past while spearheading visionary projects that enhance the lives of its residents and cement its status as a global leader in urban innovation.
1916: The Black Tom explosion, orchestrated by German agents on July 30, 1916, targeted a key U.S. munitions depot aiding the Allies in WWI. This sabotage caused a monumental blast that affected areas from Jersey City to Manhattan and even damaged the Statue of Liberty, resulting in casualties and widespread injuries. The aftermath spurred the United States to tighten national security, particularly in munitions handling, reflecting the incident's impact on domestic and international policies.
The protracted legal battle with Germany over the incident's damages underscored the complexities of wartime sabotage's implications, concluding only in 1953 with a settlement. This pivotal episode emphasizes the significant impact of national security measures and establishes critical legal frameworks for addressing such acts of sabotage, marking a notable point in U.S.-German relations and international law.
1916: The New York City Zoning Resolution of 1916, enacted on July 25, was a groundbreaking measure aimed at reshaping the urban landscape. By requiring buildings to taper with height, it introduced the iconic "wedding cake" architecture, ensuring light and air reached the streets below. This response to the shadow cast by the Equitable Building set a global precedent for urban planning, emphasizing the importance of environmental and public health in city development.
As the first comprehensive zoning law in the United States, it fundamentally altered New York's skyline and laid the groundwork for modern zoning and urban planning principles. This marked a pivotal moment in the history of urban development, integrating environmental and public health considerations, and establishing foundational zoning and urban planning principles that are still in effect today.
1916: Auto-Ordnance Corporation, established in 1916, revolutionized American firearms with the Thompson submachine gun, famously known as the "Tommy Gun." Engineered by General John T. Thompson for WWI as a "trench broom," its introduction marked a significant leap in firearms technology with its .45 caliber and high fire rate. Despite missing WWI, it became iconic during WWII and the Prohibition era, symbolizing advanced military and law enforcement weaponry.
This pivotal innovation highlights Auto-Ordnance's contribution to American industrial history and technological progress. Furthermore, it emphasizes New York City's diverse economic contributions, extending its influence beyond its recognized financial and cultural realms into significant roles in the national defense industry and historical periods.
1917: New York City's Water Tunnel No. 1, inaugurated in 1917, revolutionized its water supply by delivering fresh water from the Catskill Mountains, supporting the burgeoning population and industrial growth. This civil engineering milestone underscored the city's commitment to public health and infrastructure development, initiating a new era in water resource management. The project's completion is pivotal in the city’s efforts towards securing an independent water supply, critical for its ongoing expansion and prosperity.
The construction of the 85-mile tunnel was a response to the increasing demand for potable water, driven by rapid population growth. This feat demonstrated the city's dedication to meeting the basic needs of its inhabitants and ensuring a sustainable future. By facilitating a consistent water supply, the tunnel has been foundational in New York City's historical development, enabling a thriving, healthy community.
1917: New York City honored the 27th Infantry Division with a grand send-off parade along 5th Avenue on August 30, 1917, before their deployment to World War I. This event highlighted the city's solidarity and patriotic fervor, mobilizing support for the soldiers destined to serve the United States in Europe.
The parade not only uplifted the spirits of the troops but also strengthened the bond between military personnel and civilians, illustrating NYC's vital contribution to the national war effort. Furthermore, it underscored the city's commitment to community and patriotism. Marking a significant chapter in NYC's history, the parade showcased its key role in America's participation in World War I, enhancing its historical and cultural legacy.
1918: The "Great Influenza Pandemic" of 1918, or Spanish Flu, profoundly impacted New York City, a key port with a dense populace, marking a grave day in October when 851 lives were lost to the illness. This event underscored the pandemic's harsh toll on the city, spotlighting a significant moment in its public health narrative.
Responding to the pandemic, New York City revamped its public health and emergency readiness, highlighting the necessity for enhanced disease surveillance and infrastructure. This adversity catalyzed improvements in health policies, fortifying the city against future outbreaks, and cementing a legacy of resilience and innovation in public health management.
1918: The Malbone Street Wreck on November 1, stands as a grim milestone in New York City's transit history. A strike-induced, inexperienced motorman was at the helm of a Brooklyn Rapid Transit train when it derailed on a sharp curve near Malbone Street, Flatbush, resulting in 97 fatalities and over a hundred injuries among homebound commuters. This tragedy, one of the deadliest subway accidents, underscored the critical need for skilled operation and safety in urban transit.
In response, New York City overhauled public transit safety protocols and training, emphasizing the necessity for qualified personnel. These reforms, spurred by the Malbone Street disaster, aimed to fortify subway safety and reliability, marking a pivotal shift in operational standards and labor practices. The incident forever changed the city's approach to public transportation safety, serving as a continual reminder of the importance of stringent safety measures and experienced workforce in preventing future tragedies.
1918: Nestled in New York City's Theater District, the Selwyn Theatre opened in 1918, designed by George Keister and initiated by Edgar and Arch Selwyn, debuted as a beacon of the burgeoning Broadway scene. Its neo-Renaissance facade and commitment to showcasing plays marked it as a cultural landmark, enhancing the city's allure as a hub for the performing arts.
Through varied eras, this venue transitioned from a playhouse to a movie theater, ultimately being restored and renamed the American Airlines Theatre in 2000 by the Roundabout Theatre Company. Its enduring presence and adaptability underscore its significant contribution to New York City's vibrant historical and cultural tapestry, maintaining its position as a cornerstone in the arts community for over a century.
1919: The Spanish flu pandemic of 1918-1919 hit New York City hard, with death toll estimates ranging from 30,000 to 33,000. This crisis tested the city's public health capabilities to their limits, especially during the fall of 1918 to early 1919, marking the pandemic's deadliest phase in NYC. This period mirrored the global pattern of the outbreak, emphasizing the city's struggle against a widespread health emergency.
Reacting to the outbreak, NYC adopted crucial public health measures, including social distancing, mask mandates, and the shutdown of public spaces. These actions significantly shaped the city's public health policy and readiness for future emergencies. From this experience, NYC enhanced its disease surveillance and response systems, resulting in a fortified public health infrastructure. This transformation has strengthened NYC's resilience against health crises, showcasing its adaptive response to the Spanish flu's challenges.
1919: The "Big Red One," US Army's 1st Division, made a significant return post-World War I in September 1919, marking a pivotal moment in both American military history and New York City's narrative. The specifics of their return and subsequent celebrations in NYC may be less documented, but the city's strategic role as a reception point for returning troops underlines its cultural and historical importance. New York's ports transformed into platforms for demobilization and public jubilation, symbolizing the conclusion of the war and the beginning of a transition toward peace and reconstruction.
This homecoming had profound effects on New York City, symbolizing not just a conclusion to wartime but also heralding a period of societal rebuilding and integration. Veterans' reentry into civilian roles fueled economic and cultural shifts, embedding their experiences into the city's diverse tapestry. The event reinforced NYC's resilience and adaptability, marking its evolution as a metropolis enriched by its inhabitants' varied histories and contributions to its enduring legacy.
1919: Launched by Joseph Medill Patterson, the Daily News introduced New York City and the nation to the daily tabloid on June 26, 1919, pioneering sensational journalism with its focus on crime, scandal, and striking imagery. This novel approach not only captivated a wide readership but also set new standards for the newspaper industry, emphasizing engaging, visually oriented coverage.
As a cornerstone of New York City's media landscape, the Daily News has significantly influenced public discourse and documented crucial events, thereby shaping the city's cultural and historical fabric. Its commitment to detailed reporting on both local and national levels has cemented its status as a key player in preserving New York's rich narrative, contributing to the ongoing development of print journalism within the metropolis.
1919: The Algonquin Round Table, a distinguished assembly of literary and social luminaries, convened regularly at New York City's Algonquin Hotel at 59 West 44th Street starting in 1919. Celebrated for their incisive wit, these gatherings swiftly emerged as a defining feature of the city's cultural milieu, leaving a lasting influence on American literature and entertainment with their unmatched humor and insightful critiques.
Beyond their iconic venue, the Round Table's contributions significantly bolstered New York City's prominence as an early 20th-century cultural and intellectual epicenter. Their legacy not only elevated the Algonquin Hotel's status as a pivotal literary site but also profoundly impacted the city's artistic and societal realms. Through a prolific array of essays, plays, and critical analyses, alongside significant forays into emerging film and theater scenes, this group indelibly shaped the period's literary and cultural narrative.
1919: The 135th Street YMCA in Harlem, established in 1919, not only served as a vibrant community and cultural center but also played a formative role in the lives of several notable Black Americans. Among its distinguished members were jazz legend Miles Davis and basketball great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, both of whom were influenced by the YMCA's supportive environment.
This YMCA branch emerged as a pivotal community asset, enhancing educational and wellness initiatives. It was instrumental in sculpting Harlem's cultural and social fabric, fostering an inclusive atmosphere for Black Americans. Through its support of the Harlem Renaissance, the 135th Street YMCA made a profound impact on cultural development, both locally and nationally, underscoring its enduring legacy in New York City.
1920: The United States Census documented New York City's population at 5,620,048 in 1920, highlighting its status as a burgeoning urban center post-World War I. This period underscored the city's crucial role in national urbanization trends and the profound impact of immigration. During the early 20th century, especially in the decade preceding the census, NYC saw an unprecedented demographic expansion, propelled by domestic migration and a significant influx of immigrants.
These developments were pivotal in shaping the city's socio-economic and cultural milieu. The "Roaring Twenties" positioned NYC at the vanguard of economic boom, cultural innovation, particularly the Harlem Renaissance, and substantial urban and infrastructural advancements, cementing its trajectory towards becoming a global metropolis.
1920: The early 20th century transformation of New York City's Parks Department, marked by the 1920 appointment of a Staten Island-specific park commissioner, heralded a shift towards a decentralized governance model, prioritizing the distinct needs of each borough. This approach significantly enhanced local park management, aligning development, maintenance, and programming more closely with community needs, particularly in Staten Island, known for its extensive green spaces.
The creation of a Park Board, comprising commissioners from all boroughs with the Manhattan commissioner at its helm, facilitated a collaborative city-wide park management strategy, balancing local concerns with overarching urban goals. This led to improved access to green spaces, heightened maintenance standards, and expanded recreational opportunities, thus improving New York City's livability and underscoring the critical role of parks in urban well-being.
1920: The Wall Street bombing on September 16, 1920, occurring outside J.P. Morgan bank in Manhattan, instantly killed 38 and injured hundreds, marking a stark moment in both New York City and U.S. history. Fueled by 100 pounds of dynamite, the attack devastated the financial district, shattering nearby windows and demolishing the Morgan building’s interior. Linked to anarchists amid a tense political climate, notably following the indictment of Sacco and Vanzetti, the culprits remained unidentified, embedding the bombing as an unresolved chapter in American history.
This event underscored the vulnerabilities of urban centers, prompting enhanced security and a heightened awareness of political extremism's impact. The enduring bomb fragment remains within the building, symbolizing the attack's lasting imprint on the city's financial sphere and its broader historical narrative. It represents a direct assault on American capitalism and a pivotal shift in governmental responses, reflecting New York City's intricate ties to national security and political evolution.
1920: Post-World War I, New York City witnessed an unprecedented economic boom, driving residential expansion across its boroughs, notably in Queens and Staten Island. Queens saw its population double from 1910 to 1920, spurred by transportation improvements like subway extensions, enhancing its connectivity to Manhattan. This growth led to the acquisition of Cunningham and Alley Pond Parks, addressing the increased demand for public green spaces and supporting the burgeoning communities with essential recreational areas.
Simultaneously, Staten Island's residential development surge resulted in acquiring Clove Lakes, Wolfe's Pond, and La Tourette Parks during the 1920s, emphasizing the preservation of natural landscapes amid urban expansion. These efforts showcased the city's commitment to balancing development with green space conservation, improving residents' quality of life. This era not only highlighted New York City's dynamic growth but also laid the foundations for its evolution into a modern, diverse metropolis, enriching its historical narrative with a legacy of urban planning and environmental stewardship.
History101.nyc has established itself as a leading educational platform, uniquely supported by Fine Print NYC, experts in the restoration of antique, rare, and damaged wallpapers. This collaboration enables History101.nyc to offer rich, well-researched content without the distraction of advertisements. Fine Print NYC's reputation for excellence in the niche field of wallpaper restoration highlights their commitment to preserving history, aligning perfectly with History101.nyc’s educational goals.
Joseph Gornail a distinguished printer/photographer and the visionary behind Fine Print New York, hails from SoHo, Manhattan. Rooted in a family tradition of NYC printing, Joseph mastered the craft as a teenager. His significant impact on the New York printing industry ignited in 1996 with Dolo Records/Stretch Armstrong. He founded All City Marketing & Printing in the late '90s and co-created the iconic streetwear label Orchard Street with partners Benjamin Holloway and Greig Bennett in 1999. In 2004, Joseph launched Fine Print NYC, establishing it as a leading commercial printing firm. The company debuted with a landmark project for Nike, epitomizing innovation and resilience in the modern digital landscape.
Steven Garcia a prominent designer/illustrator and creative director at Fine Print, originates from Bushwick, Brooklyn. A graduate of Fashion Industries High School and the Fashion Institute of Technology (F.I.T.), Steven has carved a notable path in the design world. His early career highlights include a role as a sought-after professional retoucher and storyboard artist at Saatchi & Saatchi in 1996. Embracing his entrepreneurial side, Steven founded ShinyDesign in 1998, which later became a key design partner for Fine Print NYC in 2004. His extensive portfolio features collaborations with elite brands such as Snapple, The Waldorf Astoria, Netflix and Sony, cementing his status as a key influencer in New York's vibrant advertising and design industry.
Welcome to "History101.NYC," an unparalleled online gallery featuring the beginnings of New York City, exquisitely restored by the experts at Fine Print New York. This exclusive collection vividly resurrects key historical moments, celebrating the city's rich history and diverse cultural heritage. Each meticulously crafted piece in our gallery offers a genuine look into NYC's past, embodying exceptional artistic skill and meticulous attention to detail.
Dive into our archives for a selection of exclusive, premium-quality art prints, encompassing a range of vintage photos, historical images, and rare lithographs unique to our site. These curated artworks narrate the dynamic evolution of the Big Apple, providing history enthusiasts and art collectors with a rare opportunity to own a part of NYC's illustrious legacy. Don't miss the chance to explore and acquire these captivating representations of New York City's historical journey.
We cover a vast span of New York City's history, from its inception as New Amsterdam to the vibrant late 1980s. Our artists are actively working on expanding our collection to include photos from the 90s up to the present day.
Here's our current coverage list, showcasing the city's evolution:
Each period is richly represented through a variety of art mediums, offering a comprehensive and immersive historical journey of NYC. This chronological approach provides enthusiasts and scholars a unique lens into the city's architectural, cultural, and social developments.
There are currently 795 photos, lithographs, illustrations and maps on this site. Each one has been digitally restored and cleaned up by hand, which makes this collection truly unique.
Digital licenses are available for educational institutions (schools, universities, non-profit organizations). Please contact legal@fineprintnyc.com to discuss conditions for licensing.
NOTE: Any form of commercialization or redistribution of these images, either as tangible goods or third party licenses, is expressly forbidden.
History101.nyc is an ad-free and non-profit learning resource. We do not sell prints of these images. All operational costs are covered by Fine Print NYC
Absolutely! Feel free to send us an email with a preview of the image and we will let you know if it's a good fit for the archives.
We welcome any feedback that you may have. If it proves to be historically accurate the changes will be reflected on the site shortly after our correspondence.
We have collaborated with NYC's Municipal Archives, The Tenemant Museum, Bronx Historical Society and a number of prominent NYC photographers to produce a series of limited edition postcards which free of charge, but only available via street distribution, primarily in Manhattan.
Yes, we can repair, restore and cleanup your old family photos, slides and negatives. You can either send us the digital files or the original photos to be professionally scanned.
We can restore just about any level of damage or signs of aging, within reason. As long as most of the photo is intact we cn work with it. The one flaw we cannot fix is source material that is blurry. A poorly take photo can only be improved so much.
315 Madison Avenue • NYC 10017 • (212)619-5446 • art@fineprintnyc.com
History101.NYC is an ad-free learning resource available to the public at no charge.
This project is dedicated to exploring New York’s fascinating heritage through the restoration of vintage photographs and prints.