New York City, with its towering skyline and vibrant streets, has always been a symbol of progress and transformation. From 1890 to 1960, the city underwent remarkable changes that would shape its future. Through a series of classic photographs, we’re transported to a time when horse-drawn carriages mingled with early automobiles and neighborhoods buzzed with the energy of a rapidly growing metropolis.
These images offer a rare glimpse into the heart of Old New York, capturing the essence of its people. From the construction of the iconic skyscrapers to the lively streets filled with immigrants and visionaries, each photo reflects a moment in time that helped forge the city’s unique identity. Here are 20 vintage photos of New York City from 1890 to 1960.
1. New York City, 1890.
This is Mulberry Street, AKA New York’s Little Italy.
2. Broadway, 1900.
Still just as crowded, but there are way fewer cars driving around.
3. New York Subway, 1910.
It’s surprising that there were as many ads back then as there are now.
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4. Crossing the street in 1960.
If it weren’t for their style, this would look a lot like New York today.
5. A look inside a cafe in 1939.
I’m so happy they don’t let people smoke inside anymore.
6. Hot dog stand in Little Italy, New York, 1960.
This is a semi-permanent hot dog stand.
7. A rainy time square in 1943.
Walking around New York with an open sky would be incredible.
8. Immigrant family at Ellis Island, looking at the New York skyline.
This photo was taken in 1925, and it’s incredible to see people’s first impression of New York.
9. A photographer taking a picture of New York streets.
This man is willing to do anything for the perfect shot.
10. The streets of New York, 1908.
Look at all those parking spaces. New York today could never.
11. Times Square lit up at night, 1921.
You could probably still see the stars back then; now, the light pollution is overbearing.
12. Skateboarding in the ’60s.
Riding those tiny skateboards must take some serious skill.
13. Wise guys at a restaurant, 1960s.
If I was taking the photo and someone gave me that look, I’d get to the door fast.
14. A daredevil balancing 20 stories high, 1920.
I love how people wore suits no matter what the occasion was.
15. This seems like a good place to hang out.
It takes some serious upper body strength to get back up.
16. The Lower East Side looked post-apocalyptic.
Hey, at least it looks affordable.
17. A technician doing telephone switch maintenance in New York, 1938.
And what do you know, he’s in a three-piece suit. Does anyone today have the patience to do this?
18. A weekend in New York, 1950.
It’s pretty incredible how fast the New York skyline was built.
19. A rainy day in New York, 1943.
Times square looked cooler in the 1940s.
20. Ottoman wrestlers visiting New York for a wrestling competition.
Have you ever seen a more menacing duo?
