Social / USA / Cheap Lodging
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Social / USA / Cheap Lodging
Lodgers in a crowded Bayard Street tenement in New York: the cost is " five cents a spot" Date: 1889
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14292191
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1889 Bayard Cents Cheap Cost Crowded Lodgers Lodging Spot Tenement
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image captures the cramped living conditions of lodgers in a tenement on Bayard Street in New York City during the late 19th century. Dated 1889, the photograph offers a glimpse into the lives of those who sought affordable housing in the bustling metropolis. The cost of a spot in this crowded tenement was just five cents, a price that likely attracted many working-class individuals and families. The scene is filled with a sense of communal living, as people of various ages and backgrounds share the same small space. The tenement's narrow staircase and dimly lit corridors add to the sense of claustrophobia, while the bare essentials of the lodgers' belongings suggest a minimal existence. Despite the challenging living conditions, there is a sense of community and resilience among the lodgers. They appear to be engaged in their daily routines, from cooking and washing to reading and socializing. The photograph serves as a powerful reminder of the harsh realities faced by many urban dwellers during this period in American history. The tenement system was a common housing solution for the working class in cities like New York during the late 1800s and early 1900s. These buildings, which often lacked basic amenities and were prone to overcrowding and unsanitary conditions, were a major concern for social reformers and public health officials. However, they also provided a vital service for those who could not afford more expensive housing options. This photograph offers a poignant and thought-provoking look into the past, shedding light on the social and economic realities of urban life in America during the late 19th century.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.