New York Bank Run Chaos, February 1912

This historical photograph captures a dramatic bank run at an East Side bank in New York City on February 16, 1912. The image offers a rare glimpse into the financial turmoil that characterized early twentieth-century America. As the nation grappled with economic uncertainty, fear and mistrust of banking institutions were rampant, leading depositors to rush to withdraw their money. This event is emblematic of the broader financial instability that impacted countless individuals and families during this period.

The photograph was taken by Bain News Service, a prominent news agency known for documenting significant events and societal issues of its time. Bank runs like this one were often fueled by rumors, which created a devastating cycle of panic and withdrawals. The 1912 incident in particular illustrates the fragility of public confidence in financial systems and highlights how quickly societal unrest can manifest in response to economic challenges. The moment captured serves not just as a record of the specific event, but also as a reflection of the broader tensions facing American society at the time.