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Ca. 1880s cabinet card photograph of Steve Brodie, theater performer and Brooklyn Bridge jumper.
Ca. 1880s cabinet card photograph of Steve Brodie, theater performer and Brooklyn Bridge jumper.

Ca. 1880s cabinet card photograph of Steve Brodie, theater performer and Brooklyn Bridge jumper.


A publicity photograph captioned in the mount, thus: “Steve Brodie. — On the Bowery. Thos. H. Davis & Wm. T. Keough.”

In late 19th century New York City, Steve Brodie was a colorful personality who became famous for supposedly jumping off the Brooklyn Bridge on July 23, 1886 and surviving the 135-foot plunge into the East River.  Although it is uncertain whether he actually made the jump, it captured the public’s attention and propelled him to celebrity status. He took advantage of his newfound fame by opening “Brodie’s Bar and Grill” in Manhattan, where he entertained customers with tales of his bold feat. Over time, Brodie’s reputation grew, and he was often portrayed as a daring hero in popular culture and a bit of a rogue.

On the Bowery was Brodie’s touring autobiographical theatrical performance.


Description: Ca. 1880s cabinet card photograph of Steve Brodie, theater performer and Brooklyn Bridge jumper.

[New York. N.p., no backmark, ca. 1880s]. 6½ x 4¼ inches. Evenly faded; good.

[3733316]

Price: $150.00

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