More from the Berenice Abbott Collection

A roast corn man, at the corner of Orchard and Hester (courtesy NYPL). May 3, 1938.

As of December 1, 1938, most forms of street vending were outlawed in New York City. Along the lines of Abbott's other photos, this was part of the "changing" city. Two vendors are clearly seen street peddling, despite the ban.

Read more (pdf) from Suzanne Wasserman, head of the Gotham Center for New York City History.