I have written before about how unusual it is for a city street to have such a sharp bend or curve, and how they are found much more on movie sets than in real life. This short, narrow street, Doyers Street in Chinatown, is one of the most infamous such streets in the world.
The reason is that about 100 years ago it was among the most violent locations around. If you google “doyers street” and “bloody angle” you will find numerous claims that more people have died violently at this location than anywhere else. For all I know it’s true, but I have my doubts, and nobody seems to cite any hard data on the topic. Nevertheless, it is clear that many violent gang wars played out at this bend.
There is a lot of positive history here as well. The country’s first Chinese theater was once here, and the Nom Wah Tea Parlor, which you can sort of see on the right (and which I previously featured at the link), opened in the 1920s and introduced Dim Sum to the US.
Jim Denham
13 Jul 2012Looks like it could be bloody, but I like that there’s no concrete evidence of it – keeps us guessing! The film feel is perfect for this shot and really gives off an old, mysterious look! I like!
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Toad Hollow Photography
16 Jul 2012I love the nostalgic feel you’ve given to this shot, Mark! I had no idea about any of this backstory, so your post here was not only enjoyed for the great photography, I also learned a bit! Great stuff, my friend.
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Erik Kerstenbeck
22 Jul 2012Like to tone and mood of this