A visit to Manhattan in 1919


I just stumbled across this wonderful photo from the Duke University site of Manhattan in 1919. Specifically, it's Broadway and 58th Street. Let's go visit.

OK, let's get this out of the way, I'm not advertising or selling anything, but the R.C. Maxwell company is. Or at least they were in 1919. They sold billboards, and the reason that the nice people at the Duke University scanned this photo is because it's part of their scholarly study of advertising. Yes, people actually study that, I did when I went to ASU, and it's fascinating. But that's not what I'm interested in here. I want to time-travel into this image.


The first thing that caught my eye was this sight-seeing bus. That has got to be the largest Mercedes logo that I've ever seen! Assuming that's what it is, of course. If it's not, please let me know, and I'll update this post. Looks like Manhattan was popular with tourists, which it still is today!


Ya gotta love the old cars! If you can identify them, please do. Isn't the steering wheel on the wrong side on that car on the left? I'm imagining that if I stepped out onto Broadway I'd hear "A-Oooogah!" You can buy a Mitchell car back there, that's all I know for sure.


And now a word from our sponsor. Be sure to wear Palm Beach Suits. The genuine cloth! I'm not sure what A.J. Picard & Company was all about, but apparently they wanted you to get Stromberg carburetors.


I'm not sure what that domed thingy is. An entrance to the subway? Looks like there was a lot of advertising back then, and there still is now. Thank you for visiting Manhattan with me. Be sure to tip your tour guide on your way out! Yes, a nickel will be just fine.


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