Early 1900s Card Game at Broad Channel Island

This historical photograph, taken between 1910 and 1915, showcases a group of individuals engaged in a card game at Broad Channel, a small island community in New York City’s Jamaica Bay. Known for its picturesque scenery, Broad Channel was a popular spot for leisure activities during this period. The photograph captures a moment of social interaction and entertainment, reflecting the leisurely pastimes that characterized many American communities in the early 20th century.

The card game not only serves as a focal point of the image but also highlights the social dynamics of the time. In an era when communities gathered for shared activities, such games were a staple of both recreation and camaraderie. This snapshot, recorded by the Bain News Service, represents early news photography, utilizing glass negatives that were prevalent in the industry at the time. Such images provide a glimpse into the everyday lives of individuals from a bygone era, making this photograph an essential piece of historical documentation.