Henry Parker
In the late 1960s, New York City’s streets were bustling with life. Photographer James Jowers captured the essence of these streets through his camera. Jowers, who learned photography while serving in the United States Army, spent his days off exploring his Lower East Side neighborhood and other parts of Manhattan. His photos show the city in all its gritty and quirky glory.
During this time, the streets were filled with a mix of people from different backgrounds. You could see kids playing stickball, a popular street game back then. Men in suits walked past street vendors selling everything from hot dogs to newspapers. The streets were always busy, with cars honking and people rushing to get somewhere.
On the Lower East Side, you could find a variety of cultures blending together. Italian bakeries, Jewish delis, and Puerto Rican music created a unique atmosphere. This part of the city was known for its vibrant and sometimes tough neighborhoods. Buildings were covered in graffiti, and fire escapes were used as extra living spaces.
Street performers added to the lively scene. Musicians played guitars, saxophones, and drums, hoping to earn some change from passersby. Artists painted and sketched, capturing the ever-changing city. Jowers’ photos often included these performers, highlighting their role in the city’s culture.
The fashion of the late 1960s was also captured in Jowers’ work. Men wore wide ties and fedoras, while women sported miniskirts and go-go boots. Hippies with long hair and colorful clothes stood out against the more traditional styles. The contrast in fashion mirrored the mix of old and new that defined the city at the time.
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