NYC, Bowling Green, Shoeshine Boy, 1924
Entitled: "Tony, a twelve year old bootblack at his station in Bowling Green, New York City. He says he makes from $2 - $3 a day regularly." Shoeshiner or boot polisher is an occupation in which a person polishes shoes with shoe polish. They are often known as shoeshine boys because the job is traditionally that of a male child. Shoeshiners are often found working in business districts where professionals congregate. The shoeshiner is perceived as an informational hub, studiously polishing and buffing whilst dispensing helpful advice on local affairs and events. In 1908, Lewis Hine accepted a position as chief investigator and photographer for the National Child Labor Committee (NCLC), a private organization founded in 1904 whose mission was to promote legislation to protect children from exploitation by American industry. At the time, children as young as four years old labored in a variety of trades eight to twelve hours a day in factories, tenements, and on the streets. Photographed by Hine, July 25, 1924.
Size: 4200px × 3185px
Photo credit: © Photo Researchers / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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