History101.NYC is an ad-free learning resource available to the public at no charge. The project is dedicated to exploring New York’s fascinating past. We restore vintage photographs and prints that document the City's history and heritage. We also research the natural forces that shaped the environment, along with the people who formed the landscape and culture.
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.
1908: Italian Street Vendors
A few of many street vendors selling their goods at the Italian Feast of San Gennaro, which is still celebrated in a similar manner today.
Artist Credit: George Grantham Bain. Reprinted with permission. Library of Congress
1905: Blizzard on 23rd Street
Rows of carriages on 23rd Street are blockaded from the January 24th storm which covered the city in 11" of snow.
Artist Credit: Unknown. Reprinted with permission. Library of Congress
1908: Wagons Removing Snow
Photograph shows a line of horse-drawn wagons hauling snow after a blizzard in New York City.
Artist Credit: George Grantham Bain. Reprinted with permission. Library of Congress
1909: New York City Police Department
A group of New York City police officers pose together in front of a precinct.
Artist Credit: W.O. Lewin. Reprinted with permission. Library of Congress
1909: Chinatown Decorated for New Year
Photograph of Mott Street decorated for New Year, Jan. 21, 1909 - looking toward Port Arthur restaurant.
Artist Credit: Unknown. Reprinted with permission. Library of Congress
1907: Macy's Building and Herald Square
Shoppers and commuters fill Herald Square in front of Macy's famous department store.
Artist Credit: Irving Underhill. Reprinted with permission. Library of Congress
1907: Union Square Fountain
A close-up view of the Union Square Fountain with the Metropolitan Building in the background.
Artist Credit: Standard Scenic Company. Reprinted with permission. Library of Congress
1909: Hotels from the Lake in Central Park
A photograph shot from the perspective of the lake at Central Park towards the luxury hotels which form the skyline.
Artist Credit: Unknown. Reprinted with permission. Library of Congress
1909: Dutch Dancers at The Waldorf
A group of young dancers in traditional Dutch attire dance at the rooftop terrace of The Waldorf Astoria.
Artist Credit: George Grantham Bain. Reprinted with permission. Library of Congress
1909: Half Moon on The Hudson
Henry Hudsons' vessel, the "Half Moon" is reconstructed and sailed in the river as part of the Hudson-Fulton Celebration in 1909.
Artist Credit: Unknown. Reprinted with permission. Library of Congress
1908: The Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges
An iconic view of the both East River bridges with downtown Manhattan in the background and plenty of traffic in the East River.
Artist Credit: Unknown. Reprinted with permission. Library of Congress
1908: Aerial View of Downtown Manhattan and Brooklyn
Spectacular view, looking east from the Singer Tower - all three East River Bridges are visible from this perspective.
Artist Credit: Unknown. Reprinted with permission. Library of Congress
1907: Election Night in Times Square
Voters congregate near the Times Building at the "Great White Way" (Broadway from 42nd to 34th Sts.)
Artist Credit: H.C. White Co. Reprinted with permission. Library of CongressNext Chapter: History of NYC - 1910 to 1915
At the dawn of another decade, New York's expansion and cultural influence show no signs of slowing. The New York Public Library's main branch was completed and just a few block... Continue Reading