Vendor Selling Medals Near St. Anne’s Church, 1910s

This historical photograph captures a scene from between 1910 and 1915, featuring a vendor selling medals outside St. Anne’s Church. St. Anne’s, located in the heart of New York City, is notable for its beautiful Gothic Revival architecture and was a vital part of the community during this period. The church, founded in 1847, became a gathering point for many immigrants and locals, symbolizing hope, resilience, and community.

The vendors role in this image highlights the bustling life of early 20th-century New York. Selling medals, which could symbolize various achievements or commemorations, reflects the broader cultural practices of the time, where people valued tangible reminders of their accomplishments or affiliations. This market scene provides a glimpse into daily life, showcasing how public spaces like the area around St. Anne’s served as lively venues for commerce and social interaction. The photograph not only documents a moment in time but also illustrates the diverse experiences and economic activities central to urban life in early 20th-century America.