Old History photo # 229

In the vibrant streets of Manhattan in 1892, there were a group of hot potato vendors who sold a unique variety of potatoes known as "mickeys." These mickeys were not your ordinary potatoes; they had a distinct taste and texture that set them apart from all others.

The hot potato vendors would set up their carts in strategic locations throughout the city, attracting customers with the tantalizing aroma of their freshly cooked mickeys. The mickeys were named after their creator, Mickey, a skilled potato farmer who had perfected the art of growing and cooking these potatoes.

Mickey's mickeys were renowned for their crispy exterior and fluffy interior. People would line up eagerly, waiting for their turn to savor the deliciousness of these potatoes. The vendors would carefully slice the mickeys into thin strips and fry them to perfection, ensuring that each customer received a piping hot batch of crispy goodness.

The mickeys quickly gained popularity among both locals and tourists. The vendors would often share stories about the origins of these unique potatoes, adding to the intrigue and allure. People would come from all corners of the city to taste the mickeys, and the hot potato vendors became an integral part of the bustling street culture of Manhattan.

The hot potato vendors would offer a variety of toppings and seasonings to accompany the mickeys. Some customers preferred them plain, allowing the natural flavors of the potato to shine through. Others would opt for toppings like melted cheese, sour cream, or even a sprinkle of bacon bits, adding an extra layer of indulgence to their potato experience.

As the mickeys gained popularity, the hot potato vendors became local celebrities. Their carts became gathering spots for friends and colleagues, where they would enjoy a quick and satisfying meal while engaging in lively conversations. The vendors would often share stories and jokes, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all who visited.

The hot potato vendors and their mickeys became an integral part of the cultural fabric of Manhattan in 1892. Their presence added a touch of culinary delight to the bustling streets, creating a sense of community and shared enjoyment. The legacy of the hot potato vendors and their mickeys lives on, reminding us of the simple pleasures that can be found in a humble potato.

Sounds like awfully good loaded tater skins. I’m in.

Osky

The potatoes on the spikes kind of look like Kennebecs.

I like the way his cart handles fold down to let the cart sit level.

So what happened to them?
Or are they still around.
Never seen any when I was in Manhattan a few years ago.

I think they're food Trucks now

Last week, NYC banned all the street vendors, licensed and non-licensed, from selling on the bridges they had sold on for many years. They put many thousands of people out of work who supposedly averaged $30.00 an hour or more. They even threw off the massive number of vendors who sold on the Brooklyn Bridge, which was one of the hottest spots in town.

Keith

cool thanks for sharing

I like it great pics

Interesting photo and the history to go with it. Nice!

Good question. Must be 35 years or so back I was dating a woman from Tenafly. I’d go out to visit and we’d go to broadway to see plays/theatre.
On the streets there those evenings you could buy pizza slices from people using long dressed out push carts.
To this day I have never had pizza anywhere near as good as that. I went more for the pizza than the shows, but you know, a woman deal.

Osky

We called the food truck the "Roach Coach"