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The Sewer

1870s
Not on view
This scene of pristine streets appears quite charming, but in 1807 the intersection of Roosevelt and Oak probably looked (and smelled) less pleasant. The city’s patchwork of sewers were intended to divert excess water to the rivers. Some were open trenches, but others, like this one, were enclosed in an attempt to prevent the stagnant or slow-running water from festering under the sun. Yet the sewers’ lack of ventilation and tendency to back-up often led to foul odors and streets marinating in fetid water. Lucky for the gentleman (at left) and the sailor (at right) that the sidewalks are somewhat elevated!

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: The Sewer
  • Artist: William P. Chappel (American, 1801–1878)
  • Date: 1870s
  • Culture: American
  • Medium: Oil on slate paper
  • Dimensions: 6 1/8 x 9 1/4 in. (15.6 x 23.5 cm)
  • Credit Line: The Edward W. C. Arnold Collection of New York Prints, Maps, and Pictures, Bequest of Edward W. C. Arnold, 1954
  • Object Number: 54.90.508
  • Curatorial Department: The American Wing

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Adult Funeral Procession, William P. Chappel American, Oil on slate paper, American
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Powder Horn, Horn (cow), lead, American
Powder Horn
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Baked Pears in Duane Park, William P. Chappel American, Oil on slate paper, American
Baked Pears in Duane Park
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Figured bottle, Blown-molded glass, American
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Berg's Ship Yard, William P. Chappel American, Oil on slate paper, American
Berg's Ship Yard
William P. Chappel
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