Alice Austen, one of America’s earliest photographers, was introduced to photography at just 10 years old. She lived from 1866 to 1952 and spent much of her life taking pictures, and documenting New York City. Unlike most other photographers of the time, Austen wasn’t limited to a studio. She was able to spend her time actually venturing the streets of New York. She documented all the city’s different elements, and captured thousands of photos showing our city rapidly evolving. She does this by photographing the city’s working class, immigrant populations, and everyday social environment. These pictures are important in 2026 because although the city has changed a lot since then, the specific elements she documented are still central to the city. The street life of people selling goods, commuting or just socializing; the different ethnic groups who are new to the country; the workers who the city largely depends on; and the constant movement and transportation. These are all aspects of the city so very apparent today. They are fundamentals to life in New York, and it’s nice to see that this city remained consistent in its foundation to how it was in Austen’s time. It goes even further. Austen was a rebel, who lived an independent life outside of accepted female behavior. Some of her photos are of her friends and relationships, helping us understand this non-traditional lifestyle. These pictures are from a time where social opportunities for women were much more restrictive, yet it was showing their attempt to break those restrictions. Today, we live in a time much more progressive, and much closer to the freedom Austen dreamed of living in. 

This picture by Austen of a pretzel vendor and an immigrant is significant because it intertwines the city’s immigration and its working class. Historically in New York, the city has been a place where immigrants came searching for opportunities, often starting working in the streets and businesses. That remains just as true today, as immigrants make up a major part of the city’s workforce, while also contributing to the culture, and economy. The photograph also reminds us that the city isn’t only its architecture and beauty, but it’s the average people who work and interact with each other.