History of NYC - 1870s
In 1870, Long Island City was formed in Queens. Four years later, New York City annexed the West Bronx, west of the Bronx River. This era would come to be known as “the Gilded Age” – a time of radical progress but also great instability as the city’s population continued to grow beyond its capacity. This era would also see the nation’s first Centennial Anniversary, which was the cause of much fanfare and festivities as America reached a new milestone.
1873: Sunrise Over New York Harbor
An aerial view of the southern tip of Manhattan during the early morning hours. Illustration includes the shores of Brooklyn and New Jersey.
1873: Central Park and Midtown Manhattan
A bird's-eye view of New York with Central Park in the foreground.
1874: Central Park, New York
A painting which shows New Yorkers enjoying the foliage and scenery at Central Park.
1871: Lake Manahatta Reservoir
The Lake Manahatta Reservoir was built between 1858 and 1862 as a temporary water supply for the city, receiving water from the Croton Aqueduct.
1873: View Over Union Square
Views of Union Square, including the park, equestrian statue of George Washington, and the rustic buildings which once inhabited the neighborhood.
1876: Washington Equestrian Statue from Above on Decoration Day
An elevated perspective of the Washington Statue at Union Square, surrounded by crowds of people and decorated for Decoration Day.
1876: Washington Equestrian Statue on Decoration Day
Washington Statue at Union Square, decorated with foliage and flags for Decoration Day.
1871: St. Patrick's Day at Union Square
Print shows portion of a St. Patrick's Day parade at Union Square with a float in the center bearing a bust of Daniel O'Connell.
1870: Madison Square Park
Photograph of a row of buildings and storefronts taken from the perspective of Madison Square Park.
1875: Grand Central Depot
The Grand Central Depot was built by Cornelius Vanderbilt in 1871 on the site we know today as Grand Central Terminal.
1870: Elevated Railroad Station
Photograph of an elevated railroad station constructed by the Manhattan Railway Company.
1870: Elevated Station on a Busy Street
View looking southwest from the intersection of 33rd Street and Broadway. The Sixth Avenue Elevated Railway is shown on Sixth Avenue where it crosses Broadway.
1870: Immigrants Just Arrived at Ellis Island
A photograph of the waiting room at Ellis Island, where recently arrived immigrants await examination.
1875: Market Under The East River Bridge
Photograph of a bustling street market below the overpass of the Brooklyn Bridge
1876: Lincoln Monument at Union Square on Decoration Day
An elevated view of celebrations at Union Square Park on Decoration Day, or as we would currently know it, Memorial Day.