The idea behind the 19th Ward Bank, run by the Provident Loan Society, has been described as "a government-approved pawnshop for the indigent." The building, designed by William Ralph Emerson (cousin of Ralph Waldo), survives largely intact.

New York circa 1908. "19th Ward Bank, 72nd Street Branch." A curiously teensy bank scaled like a cemetery monument. 8x10 glass negative. View full size.
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        The idea behind the 19th Ward Bank, run by the Provident Loan Society, has been described as "a government-approved pawnshop for the indigent." The building, designed by William Ralph Emerson (cousin of Ralph Waldo), survives largely intact.
New York circa 1908. "19th Ward Bank, 72nd Street Branch." A curiously teensy bank scaled like a cemetery monument. 8x10 glass negative. | Click image for Comments. | Home | Browse All Photos