History of NYC - 1905 to 1910
The City’s magnetic personality continues to attract a growing and culturally diverse population. Travelers, migrants and fugitives would be drawn to its shores from across the globe to take their shot at the American Dream. During this time the transit system would grow exponentially. Two of the city’s largest hubs, Grand Central Terminal and Pennsylvania Station, were already beginning to take shape – their construction representing the ambition of the city itself and connecting the colorful tapestry of people who would define the life and vibe in New York for generations to come.
1905: Manhattan Entrance to Brooklyn Bridge
Manhattan commuters flock near the entrance to the pedestrian walkway and elevated train station of the Brooklyn Bridge.
1906: Emigrants in the Pens at Ellis Island
Crowds will the rows, or "pens" at Ellis Island, probably on or near Christmas as evidenced by the decorations.
1909: Pedestrians in Chinatown
A Chinese-American man walking with son on the street in NYC's Chinatown district.
1909: Praying On the Williamsburg Bridge
A group of Jewish citizens recite prayers on the pedestrian path of the Williamsburg Bridge for the Jewish New Year.
1905: Concert in Central Park
Spectators enjoy a musical performance at one of Central Park's pavilions.
1905: Central Park - Lake and Terrace
A small crowd gathers near Bethesda Fountain to enjoy pleasant weather and boat rides on the lake.
1905: The Belmont Coach on Fifth Avenue
The street is packed with the traffic of horses and carriages at the intersection of 5th Avenue and 59th Street.
1908: Meeting of the Unemployed at Union Square
Unemployed men and boys meet in Union Square, which as the name implies was a common meeting point for both celebrations and protests.
1905: Riverside Drive, New York City
Horse and carriage making its way along Riverside Drive, an avenue which was opened in 1880 and was well-used by walkers, bikers, and drivers.
1906: Broad Street Lunch Carts
Street vendors selling hotdogs and lemonade on Broad Street in Manhattan.
1905: Children Playing Near a Dead Horse
Children (all but one seem to be barefoot) playing in the street gutter around puddles of filth and raw sewage, sitting just within a few feet of a dead horse.
1908: Catching Goldfish in Union Square
Children trying to catch goldfish in the remaining puddles of Union Square's Fountain.
1906: Elevated Railroad at 8th Avenue
Horses and carriages move along the underpass of the elevated train tracks following 8th Avenue.