Songs Of The Gay Nineties

Originally Aired: April 14, 1937 Cavalcade of America #78, "Songs Of The Gay Nineties," takes listeners on a whirlwind tour of 1890s New York as two couples—city pair Charlie and Anna, along with country visitors Johnny and Kate—explore the entertainment district centered around 14th Street. The group boards the newly-minted Third Avenue Elevated Railroad, a steam-powered marvel that whisks them past electric streetlights and bustling city life. Johnny and Kate are wide-eyed with excitement, determined to see all of New York in a single day despite their companions' warnings about the ambitious itinerary. The foursome makes their way through the era's most famous entertainment venues, first stopping at Tony Pastor's music hall to catch the renowned Lottie Gilson performing popular songs of the day. After catching a glimpse of the glamorous Lillian Russell in her victoria, they head to the more risqué Coster and Beal's establishment, much to Kate's initial hesitation. The episode captures the excitement and energy of the Gay Nineties through both the characters' adventures and the popular songs that defined the decade.