Fabulous photochromes of 1900s New York

The stunning photochromic postcards released by the Detroit Publishing Company showcase 1900s New York in all its colorful splendor.

Mulberry Street

In the 1880s, Hans Jakob Schmidt invented photochrome — a process for creating color images using lithographic plates coated with a special chemical mixture. In America, this technology was licensed by the Detroit Publishing Company and used to create its own series of photo cards with views of America.

Bowling Green Park and Lower Broadway

Such postcards were mostly issued in 1890-1910, most often they were decorated with a gold border and a one-line description of the place from the photo. Photochromes were popular souvenirs, especially among travelers. They were often stored in photo albums or framed.

Battery Park and New York Bay

At the height of its success, Detroit Publishing Company was a market player in Detroit, New York, Los Angeles, London, and Zurich. The company continued to expand the business, selling postcards in popular boutiques, popular tourist destinations, and by mail order. However, during the First World War, sales of photographs and postcards began to decline.

West Street

The advent of more modern and inexpensive printing methods used by competitors hit the company, and by 1924 it had to go into receivership. After another eight years, DPC finally liquidated all its assets in 1932.

South Street and the Brooklyn Bridge

New York City Hall

St. Paul's Chapel

Bowery

110th Street Elevated Railroad

Marble Cathedral Church and Holland House

Fifth Avenue at 51st Street

Monday wash

Central Park Mall Esplanade

Obelisk in Central Park

High Bridge

Riverside Park and Grant Mausoleum

Madison Square

Church of the Transfiguration on East 29th Street, aka " The Little Church Around the Corner»

Newspaper row

"The tallest building in the world»

The Arc de Triomphe in Madison Square

Coney Island Beach

View of Sixth Avenue

Banana cart

View of Broadway from Day Street

The Statue of Liberty. The original copper hue is still visible under the green patina