Bundle Day Generosity in New York, 1915

On February 4, 1915, Mrs. Peter Cooper Hewitt was photographed in New York City as part of an event known as Bundle Day. This occasion marked a day of giving where families were encouraged to donate bundles of clothes and other items to those in need. Such charitable initiatives were common during the early 20th century, as communities sought to support one another amid economic challenges and social change.

Peter Cooper Hewitt, a notable inventor and entrepreneur known for his work in electrical engineering and mercury vapor lamps, was involved in various philanthropic efforts. His wife’s participation in Bundle Day highlights the significant role women played in supporting charitable causes during this era, often taking the lead in community service and social reform initiatives. This photograph serves as a snapshot of that time, encapsulating the spirit of generosity and communal support that characterized early 20th-century American society.