Historic May Day Celebration in Union Square, 1916

This photograph, titled Union Sq., 5/1/16, captures a moment in time on May 1, 1916, in Union Square, New York City. Taken by the Bain News Service, it provides a clear look at the bustling activities happening in one of the citys major public spaces during the early 20th century. Union Square has long served as a gathering point for social movements, public demonstrations, and everyday life, making it a significant landmark in American urban history.

The image highlights the diverse crowd typical of Union Square during this period, reflecting the mixture of cultures and activities prevalent in New York City at the time. In May 1916, the square was often associated with labor rallies and political events, aligning with the broader labor movement in the United States. This photograph thus offers a visual context of an era when organized labor was gaining momentum, showcasing the active civic engagement of the population in this iconic location.