Vintage 1915-1920: 39th St. Ferry Trucking Hub

This photograph captures a bustling scene at the 39th Street Ferry during the early 20th century, a pivotal time for transportation in urban America. Taken by the Bain News Service between 1915 and 1920, it showcases early trucks lined up, waiting to board the ferry. The ferry itself served as a vital link for commuters and goods, highlighting the growing importance of motorized transport in a rapidly industrializing society.

Trucks like the ones seen in the image were fundamental to changing the landscape of freight movement, as they began to replace horse-drawn wagons. This shift was part of a broader trend of modernization, illustrating how cities adapted to accommodate the rising number of vehicles. Observing this photo offers a glimpse into the daily workings of ferry transportation, as well as the shift towards a more mechanized and interconnected world during this transformative era.