Tin-types taken in the streets of New York : a series of stories and sketches portraying many singular phases of metropolitan life

A vivid collage of turn‑of‑the‑century New York, this volume offers a series of concise stories and sketches that capture the city’s restless energy in crisp, almost photographic prose. The narrator moves from bustling Bowery taverns to cramped storefronts, rendering each scene with a blend of humor, sympathy, and a keen eye for everyday drama. Accompanying Harry Beard’s fifty‑three illustrations give the listener a visual anchor, turning each vignette into a mental “tin‑type” that feels both intimate and timeless.

One of the most memorable portraits is of Mr. Ricketty, a man described as a procession of sharp angles—from his high silk hat to his multi‑patched boots—who strolls the Bowery with a rattan stick twirling in his hand. As he pauses before a modest eatery called “Butter‑cake Bob’s,” the narrative lingers on the cramped, fixture‑laden tables and the colorful patrons who drift in and out, offering a snapshot of city life that feels both specific and universal. The collection’s other characters—quirky merchants, street‑wise youths, and weary elders—appear briefly yet distinctly, inviting listeners to wander through the streets and hear the chorus of voices that once filled them.