I consider New York to be my adopted city, and I revel in its long history: the wily, narrow streets of the early city, restaurant crazes that have come and gone, tight-knit communities and the existence of hot potato vendors, as seen above. (I want one!) It’s crazy to see how much things have changed (and stayed in the same) after 60 years. The gritty streets and businesses of these photos are all long gone — except for McSorley’s and Delmonico’s, of course — but I think the personality of New York is one of continuous change. (“You can’t step in same river twice” and all that.) However, I hope it’s not too much to ask that the skeleton of the city at least stay the same. I love these streets. I love these run-down, dirty buildings. No more condos, please. And more kids playing on the sidewalk.
[Via How to be a Retronaut]
Love. Love. Love.
Have you been to the LES Tenement Museum (http://www.tenement.org/)? Their tours are really wonderful!
I haven’t, but I’ve heard they’re awesome. I must go!
I’m 95% sure that Mon Fong Wo is still there too! Next time you’re in Chinatown, take a stroll down Pell Street
AMAZING! I must check it out. I need to do more research about historic Chinatown restaurants. Thanks for the tip.
These photographs are fantastic – what variety of moods (and hats!). And bring on those hot potato vendors, please.