Social Settlements: United States. New York. New York City. "St. Thomas Chapel House": St. Thomas House, New York City: Mens Social Room - 1906. c. 1906

Editor: This photograph, taken by Percy Byron in 1906, captures the men's social room at St. Thomas House in New York City. It's fascinating how the image documents this space. What stands out to you in terms of its material and social context? Curator: This image offers a glimpse into the constructed environments of leisure and social control at the turn of the century. Consider the materials used – the sturdy tables, chairs, and even the organ – as tools shaping social interactions and hierarchies. How might these objects influence the men's behavior and sense of belonging? Editor: It's interesting to think about the objects as shaping behavior rather than just being props. Thanks, that is a new perspective for me. Curator: Indeed. By examining the material conditions, we can reveal the social functions embedded within this seemingly simple scene.