'Pets and the City' exhibition explores New York’s bond with animals

A New York Historical Society exhibit traces three centuries of human-pet relationships in urban life.

'Pets and the City.' © New York Historical Society

By Novanka Laras and Hayu Andini

In a city that never sleeps, pets have become steadfast companions, enriching the lives of millions of New Yorkers. The New York Historical Society’s latest exhibition, Pets and the City, delves into the enduring bond between New Yorkers and their furry, feathered, and even scaly friends. Charting over three centuries of urban evolution, the exhibit offers an engaging exploration of how animals transitioned from practical roles as hunters and laborers to beloved pets and symbols of emotional support.

Currently, New York City is home to an estimated two million pets, underscoring their significant role in urban life. The exhibition not only celebrates this unique connection but also sheds light on the cultural and societal shifts that have shaped the human-animal relationship in the Big Apple.

The exhibition opens with a historical perspective, illustrating how animals were once seen as moral guides and educators for children. In 18th-century portraiture, animals like lambs, deer, and squirrels frequently appeared alongside children to symbolize virtues such as innocence, stewardship, and diligence. For instance, lambs symbolized purity and were often paired with young girls, while deer represented strength and generosity, often featured in portraits of boys.

According to curator Roberta J.M. Olson, these animal depictions were more than just artistic choices—they reflected societal values and aspirations for the next generation. The exhibition features several compelling artworks from this era, showcasing the cultural importance of animals in shaping human character and morality.

Gordon Parks (1912–2006), New York. A woman and her dog in the Harlem section, 1943. © New York Historical Society

As New York transitioned from an agrarian society to a bustling urban hub, the roles of animals also evolved. In the 19th century, animals were essential to the city’s functionality. Horses powered public transportation, while pigs roamed the streets, acting as natural garbage disposers long before the establishment of a Department of Sanitation. Charles Dickens humorously described these street pigs in his 1842 travelogue American Notes, noting their “roving, gentlemanly, vagabond kind of life.”

However, the exhibition also highlights the beginnings of a shift in perception. Organizations like the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), founded in 1866, and the pet adoption organization Bideawee, established decades later, played crucial roles in advocating for animal welfare and promoting the idea of pets as cherished companions.

The exhibition extends beyond traditional pets to explore how animals have influenced various facets of culture and history. For example, it examines the roles of service animals, including bomb-sniffing dogs and messenger pigeons, as well as their contributions during times of war. Rare artifacts, such as late 18th-century Mohawk tribal documents featuring clan animal pictograms, underscore the historical and symbolic significance of animals in human societies.

A particularly intriguing exhibit centers on Emma C. Thursby, a renowned opera singer from Brooklyn, who famously traveled with her pet mynah bird in the late 19th century. A letter from the Pullman Company granting her permission to bring the bird on a train highlights how animals became integrated into everyday urban life.

The exhibition also features a delightful mural by illustrator Julia Rothman. The mural depicts an eclectic mix of animals, including cats, dogs, turtles, and even a tiger, interacting with classic New York architecture. This whimsical artwork sets the tone for an engaging and heartfelt journey through New York’s pet history.

John Durand (active 1766–1782), portrait of James Beekman, Jr. (1758–1837), 1767. © New York Historical Society

By the late 19th century, the pet industry began to take shape, reflecting the growing prominence of pets in urban households. Manufacturers introduced animal-themed toys and games, providing companionship for children who could not own pets. One notable exhibit features memorabilia from the first national cat show in 1881, illustrating the burgeoning interest in pet ownership as a cultural phenomenon.

The establishment of organizations like the Westminster Kennel Club in 1877 and the American Kennel Club in 1884 marked a turning point in how people perceived and valued animal ancestry. Purebred dogs became a status symbol, further cementing the role of pets as members of the family.

The exhibition also explores the portrayal of animals in media, showcasing clips from iconic New York-based films and television series. From the adorable antics of Stuart Little to the memorable roles of pets in Sex and the City and Breakfast at Tiffany’s, the exhibit highlights how animals have become an integral part of New York’s cultural narrative.

While Pets and the City offers a fascinating look at New York’s pet history, it occasionally strays from its central theme. For instance, a segment on presidential pets, while charming, lacks a clear connection to New York. Similarly, Charles Willson Peale’s Philadelphia-based family portrait featuring the family dog, Argus, feels out of place.

The exhibition also misses opportunities to delve deeper into some quintessential New York pet themes, such as the vital role of dog walkers and veterinarians in the city’s pet ecosystem. Despite these minor shortcomings, the exhibit provides a rich and engaging narrative that captures the essence of New Yorkers’ love for their animal companions.

William Davis Hassler (1877–1921), William Gray Hassler seated at a small table eating Quaker Puffed Rice cereal with Reddy the Cat, circa 1912. © New York Historical Society

One of the exhibition’s more sobering moments comes from the story of the Carolina Parakeet, the only parrot native to the U.S. Once highly sought after for its melodic songs, the species was driven to extinction by the 19th-century bird craze. This cautionary tale serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between humans and animals and the importance of responsible pet ownership.

Ultimately, Pets and the City is a celebration of the unique bond between New Yorkers and their pets. From historical artifacts and art to modern pop culture references, the exhibition offers a comprehensive look at how animals have shaped and enriched urban life.

For pet lovers and history enthusiasts alike, this exhibit provides a heartwarming and thought-provoking journey through New York’s enduring love affair with its animal companions.

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