Times Square Illuminated by Electric Lights
Photograph
A modern photographic copy of a black-and-white nighttime illustration capturing Times Square in the early 20th century, bustling with horse-drawn carriages, streetcars, and pedestrians. The area is illuminated by early electric streetlights, with prominent signage on buildings, including "Studebaker" and "Trimble Whiskey." The bright glow of the lamps showcases the growing impact of electric lighting on urban life. The reverse of the image contains an inscription referencing "Lewis Latimer," "Con Edison," and the "Smithsonian."
This image highlights the early electrification of urban spaces, a transformation in which Lewis Latimer played a role. The photograph illustrates the tangible impact of his and other engineers’ work in bringing electric illumination to major city centers like New York. This photographic copy was probably acquired in recent decades as part of planning for an exhibition on Lewis Latimer, and/or as part of Winifred Norman’s research into her grandfather’s life and career.
Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]
Reverse side of the photograph: "Lewis Latimer" "CON EDISON / Smithsonian"