During the 19th century, it was challenging to keep perishable food fresh. People would go shopping every day and buy small amounts of groceries. In the 19th century, there were no supermarkets but small shops of various kinds. The stores were open six days a week and stayed open until the last customer left in the evening.
The poor often bought from street vendors because they were cheaper than the stores. They would often purchase from markets or street sellers since they were cheaper than shops.
Discover what 19th-century American stores looked like with these amazing vintage photos.
