Old Neighborhood (1968)

Old Neighborhood (1968)

10"x14" B/W 180 pieces

Going to the Lower East Side of NYC with my father was always a treat. We went in and out of many shops buying shoes, socks, and clothing for the cold winter months. To me, my father was a celebrity. He knew everyone, and everyone called him "Manny." Every trip included visiting Yonah Shimmel's Bakery- (the knish place) before we returned home. Knishes were like modern-day donuts, with an assortment to drool over. Cherry, apple, potato, blueberry, cheese, kasha, and spinach were displayed in a glass case for us to choose from. Each of us children got to carry our favorites.

Yonah Shimmel started selling Knishes and baked goods in 1890 on the Lower East Side of NYC. The shop at 137 East Houston Street opened in 1910.

On certain days, the flower vendor sat in front of the store. He always sold the freshest roses. Although it was an extravagance, my father always bought my mother a small bouquet. He loved his art, but my mother was his true love.