BATHTUBS IN KITCHENS
When developers began renovating old apartments in the new lower east side, they found bathtubs in kitchens.
Inside the now historic NY apartments new immigrants called home. Bathtubs and even showers can be found in the kitchens of many of New York’s late 19th and early 20th century apartments. The apartments were often the home of new immigrants and New Yorkers living in these historic homes would bathe next to the kitchen sink.
Often this was necessary. Some buildings only had a Common Sink that all used, on the first floor. Running water and a tub was luxury. This would be common around 1900, as Public Bath Houses began to emerge in NYC. All you needed was a board for counter space. This was a “modern” East Village Apartment around 1900, as people began moving north of Houston.
About The Author
