Happy Holidays Inwood.  It is chilly outside, so bundle up as you make your way to your various festivities.

And what would the season be without a few memories of yesteryear?

The following photos were taken on Broadway near Academy Street in December of 1925. The city was entering its fifth year of Prohibition and the Great Depression was just around the corner.

Sure the times were a bit different, but the tradition of a Christmas tree stand on Broadway has changed very little since these photos were taken some eighty-five years ago.

Christmas tree stand on Broadway near Academy in 1925

Of course I imagine the prices have gone up just a wee bit since 1925.

Broadway south of 207th Street this holiday season.

Still worried about Prohibition?   No P.J.’s Wine and Liquors you say?

In September of 1922 Federal prohibition agents raided the Arras Inn on 4928 Broadway where they found 120 bottles of beer. Summonses were issued for owner Paul Boehn and waiter John Cronan.

1920′s Christmas tree shoppers and sellers alike could drop into the Arras Inn on 207th and Broadway, or any number of speakeasy clubs in the neighborhood, to share a discreet pint of holiday cheer.

An infamous speakeasy: The Arras Inn on 207th and Broadway

So hoist a glass of whatever suits you.  Here’s  wishing you and  yours a happy holiday.