These Historic Photos Show How New York City Threw One of Its Largest Parades After World War I

At 60th Street, another arch stood. This one was covered in crystal glass. It shimmered in the daylight and glowed at night. As evening approached, powerful searchlights lit up both arches. The beams swept across the sky, creating a dramatic scene over the marchers and the crowd.

Special grandstands were built for veterans from past wars. One held 500 Civil War veterans. Another had space for 1,000 veterans from the Spanish-American War. These older soldiers watched as the new generation of fighters passed by. They wore medals and uniforms from decades earlier. Many needed help to their seats, but they stood and saluted as the troops marched past.

Another group lined the parade route—6,820 wounded soldiers and sailors. They were recovering in New York City hospitals. Many sat in wheelchairs or on stretchers. Nurses stood beside them. Doctors were nearby. These men had served their country and now watched their fellow soldiers return home.

The 27th Division marched in full uniform. Rows of soldiers moved in step, their boots striking the pavement in unison. Their helmets and gear were clean and sharp. Bands played military music as the men passed by. Flags waved above their heads. The noise from the crowd was loud and constant.

Family members in the crowd shouted the names of loved ones. Some held up signs. Children sat on shoulders to get a better view. Paper confetti floated down from windows above the street. Every building was decorated with flags, bunting, and banners.

Along the way, business owners stepped outside to watch. Some shops closed for the day. Office workers leaned from windows. Apartment residents waved from fire escapes. The entire city seemed to stop and watch as the 27th Division moved north.

Many of the soldiers had just arrived back from Europe. They had seen battle in France and Belgium. They had faced mud, gas, and gunfire. Now, they marched through the streets of New York, surrounded by cheers. Their faces showed a mix of pride, fatigue, and relief.

Military officers on horseback led parts of the parade. Behind them, rows of foot soldiers moved with steady pace. Some vehicles followed, including transport trucks and wagons. These reminded the public of the tools and equipment used in the war effort.

The march lasted for hours. The crowds stayed until the last group passed. Police guided people out in stages to avoid chaos. Clean-up crews moved in quickly to sweep the streets and remove debris. By nightfall, the city began to settle again, but the sound of marching feet and the echo of cheers remained.