On the road to the Hotel President in 1937


It's 1937, and we're on the road to the Hotel President, which is in Manhattan, at 58th and Broadway. I would say "buckle up!" but seat belts haven't been invented yet. So hang on, I'm driving!

By the way, before we start this imaginary journey, I would be remiss if I didn't thank the nice people at the Duke University, where I found this photo. They collect and share old photos of advertising, and people study them. And the original photo was taken as proof that the billboard was there, and legible (and not upside-down or anything). But that's not what I'm thinking about right now. I want to history adventure!


What a smooth and modern road! I'm not exactly sure where we are, but I think we have a ways to go before we get to Manhattan. There are a lot of tall buildings there, you know! Hang on, I've got to pull over to side of the road, someone wants to pass. Speed demons! The speedometer doesn't work on my old jalopy, but we have to be going at least twenty miles an hour.


I'm really not what kind of car I'm driving, my dad called it a "Rolls K'nardly" - because it rolls down one hill, and can hardly make it up the next. Why are you looking out of the rear window? Do you think that we're being tailed by the cops? At least I won't get a ticket for speeding!


I think that those kids are laughing at us! Darned kids! At least this car is paid for!


Anyway, the plan is to stop at the Hotel President when we get to Manhattan. Luckily we're travelers from the 21st Century, so $2.50 a night is pretty cheap for us. Yes, it includes a bath. And I didn't want to say anything, but after traveling with me all day, I'd say that you could use one!
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