1913 Bowery Funeral Procession: A Historic Tribute

This photograph captures a funeral procession in the Bowery area, known historically for its vibrant street life and immigrant communities. Specifically, the event documented is the Sullivan funeral, which took place on September 15, 1913. The Bowery, located in Manhattan, was home to many working-class families during this time, reflecting the cultural tapestry of early 20th-century New York City. Funerals like this were often significant communal events, drawing together friends and family to honor the deceased.

Taken by a photographer from the Bain News Service, this image is part of a broader collection that aimed to document everyday life and significant events from that era. Such photographic records are invaluable for understanding social practices, public mourning rituals, and the intense sense of community found in neighborhoods like the Bowery. This moment in time offers insight into the lives and customs of people navigating life in a rapidly changing urban landscape.