A regular figure on Washington Square in the early 20th century was “Peanut Joe” who was often seen with his fruit cart and dog. Born Giuseppe A. Brangazio in Italy, Joe operated his peanut business in the square while his son Pasquale ran a fruit shop at 579 Thames Street. The Brangazios returned to Italy where Joe died in 1917, having “massed a good size fortune, selling roasted peanuts,” according to his obituary.
Above: An early 20th century photograph of “Peanut Joe” and a dog on Washington Square. A cart with a sign reading “GOOD PEANUTS” is visible at the left and the Colony House is in the background, P9320