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Arc Story: 1942
... and other equipment on hostile shores. Higgins Industries, New Orleans." Photo by Howard Hollem, Office of War Information. View full ... during WWII. WWII Museum The WWII museum in New Orleans is located in the Higgins Main Office Building. A well worth visit ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 05/26/2014 - 5:44pm -

July 1942. "An electric arc welder at a large Southern boatyard examines a bead he has just run on a steel ramp boat which will be used in making beach landings of men, tanks, and other equipment on hostile shores. Higgins Industries, New Orleans." Photo by Howard Hollem, Office of War Information. View full size. Hot Pockets!Mr. R.K. would be wise to pull that pocket flap back over the opening of his pocket! He has a natural funnel for collecting red-hot sparks. That welding electrode in his "stinger" is an uncoated variety used before today's newer flux-coated rods were developed that help stabilize the arc and make for a cleaner, less porous weld. It was very difficult to master, especially for "out-of-position" welds where the bead had to be run at odd angles. Joseph Gordon-LevittI agree. Time traveler! First callJoseph Gordon-Levitt. Frame jobThat's a Higgins PT boat in frame right behind the subject. Higgins was second to Elco of New Jersey in number of PT boats produced during WWII. WWII MuseumThe WWII museum in New Orleans is located in the Higgins Main Office Building. A well worth visit if you are in the Big Easy. tterrace beat me to itSeems like everybody looked like Joseph Gordon Levitt back in those days. (The Gallery, Howard Hollem, New Orleans, WW2)
Balcony View: 1923
... block of Royal Street. Circa 1923. "Street scene, New Orleans." Who can name the street? It has a nice view of the Hibernia Bank ... (The Gallery, Arnold Genthe, Cars, Trucks, Buses, New Orleans) ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 03/10/2014 - 11:23pm -

        Thanks to our commenters, we've zeroed in on the location: the 500 block of Royal Street. Circa 1923. "Street scene, New Orleans." Who can name the street? It has a nice view of the Hibernia Bank tower. Photo by Arnold Genthe. View full size. Looming HiberniaLooks like Chartres near Conti. Canal Street AntiquesNormally the name of a business which incorporates a street name has its business on that same street. Hotel MonteleoneMaybe Royal between Bienville and Iberville, facing SW toward Canal Street? Somewhere around the Hotel Monteleone. 500 block of Royal StreetAbout halfway between Toulouse and St. Louis, looking southwest. Alignment of the Hibernia tower peak with the tower's nearest corner gets you really close, then onto google maps. The buildings closest on the right are largely unchanged. View Larger Map Admiring herselfin a hand mirror perhaps, or maybe reading a letter or small book, the lady in the foreground is leaning against the railing that separates the second story balcony of 526 Royal St from that of 528. Behind her is the sign for the Christian Woman's Exchange, a local women's aid organization and consignment shop at 524 Royal. The photographer is set up on the balcony of 534 Royal. Let us once again thank Shorpy and Google Streetview for making this time travel possible. (The Gallery, Arnold Genthe, Cars, Trucks, Buses, New Orleans)
Still Standing: 1912
... willing to bet that there were more than a few people in New Orleans after Katrina who would have been happy to have availed themselves ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 08/07/2012 - 3:15am -

"Boy Scout training demonstration, 1912." Fifth in our series of bandaged, splinted and faux-injured Scouts. Harris & Ewing glass negative. View full size. SplintersWHERE do these Boy Scouts find all this nice lumber lying around in the forest to make splints from? Are there also sheets and tablecloths hanging from the trees? Be prepared! Oops TroopThis whole troop certainly seems to be accident-prone. Lovely expressionIt seems to say, "Well, my arm may be horribly broken, but at least I have a jaunty hat!" Re: SplintersI suppose the sheets would be found in one's backpack when out in the wilderness — in the spirit of being prepared, one never knows when a formal dinner may spring up whilst hiking in the woods. And the lumber probably comes from something you can whittle from a nearby pine tree with your hatchet, assuming you have your Totin' Chip. [Back in the day, Boy Scouts were viewed as something like a youthful adjunct to the National Guard, and not necessarily just happy campers out in the woods. The idea was preparedness in the event of an emergency, whether it was in the city or the countryside. - Dave] Be PreparedOf course. I was merely being facetious. Having been in the Boy Scouts at a much later date than this young man (in the 1970s), I will say that the idea behind scouting had shifted considerably by the time I earned Tenderfoot rank. And our troop was taught some of the basics of camping outdoors, which probably was not necessary in this young man's day. I do recall, hazily, the idea that one should pack efficiently when camping, but not to forget things that might not spring immediately to mind, such as clean towels and washcloths. Not only or primarily for washing with, but for on-the-spot First Aid use as bandages, splint ties, or tourniquets. In the wild, you would probably not find a clean piece of lumber such as that pictured. You would more likely look for a small, sturdy, reasonably straight limb. And you would most certainly use your hatchet to separate it from the tree, if you had your Totin' Chip. Thanks for posting this picture, as the discussion has brought back some interesting memories. When I was a scoutWhen I was a scout (An Eagle over 20 years ago) we made splints similar to this. As I recall from the BSA manual we were supposed to use something straight, if you could get flat that would be preferable. We used our neckerchiefs for the bindings, although this young man appears to have used something that looks like it has a printed tee-pee on it. (Any chance we can get a closeup of that arm splint?) We used two scout shirts and two shovels to make a stretcher. Scout training is to be prepared for ANYTHING. Accidents and disasters don't just happen in the woods. I'd be willing to bet that there were more than a few people in New Orleans after Katrina who would have been happy to have availed themselves of this young man's training. Plenty of flat wood for splinting to go around there too. Be PreparedAnother thing which had changed about Scouting between 1912 and the 70's (which was when I became a Scoutmaster) is the size and nature of the neckerchief worn by Scouts. From sometime in the late 60's, the neckerchief was a relatively small triangular piece of cloth. In 1912 it was a very large piece of cloth, folded into the triangular shape we knew in the 1970's. It was more than large enough when unfolded to use as a sling or (as shown in the pictures) to tie up a splint. The BSA first aid material into the 80's still recommended using the neckerchief as a sling, much to the confusion of my Scouts, only the smallest of whom could fit their arms into a sling made from the new style neckerchief. InspiringThis is the first comment I've left here on Shorpy, although I come here every day for a dose of inspiration. I found this series of Boy Scout photos particularly wonderful, so decided to illustrate my take on this photo. There might be more of the six in the works as well. [That's really wonderful. Please keep us posted. I found a few more of these btw. - Dave] NeckerchiefsThe old full-square 30x30 neckerchiefs were handsome and useful. Those made prior to 1930 were a lightweight silky cotton pongee that could sustain a strain of many pounds on the warp and woof of the fabric. They looked great and felt great around the neck - and they were vital in performing many a good deed. Love Your ArtworkLove the artwork. I wish I had the talent to reproduce an image from a monochrome photo and add the colors that you've done here. Kinda replication - Kinda caricature - Kinda cartoon - Great originality! I wish I had the talent to reproduce a color photo into a color painting, for that matter. (The Gallery, Boy Scouts, Harris + Ewing)
The City From Algiers: 1900
New Orleans circa 1900. "The City from Algiers." At left, the centerwheeler ... the levee here. (Panoramas, Boats & Bridges, DPC, New Orleans) ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 08/02/2018 - 1:27pm -

New Orleans circa 1900. "The City from Algiers." At left, the centerwheeler ferry Thomas Pickles. Panorama made from two 8x10 glass negatives. View full size. One for Gen-XersI can't be the only one who thought Dave was throwing a "Rugrats" reference in there, can I? Imagine my surprise on finding out there actually *was* a Thomas Pickles. Structure to the leftWhat is that structure in the foreground to the far left? At first glance it appears to be a dock under construction. upon closer examination, it looks like something used to load/unload from boats. Any ideas? Era of eleganceEven the smokestacks at the various industries have ornamental caps on top. If you're going to pollute on that scale, do it with style. Certainlythe WIDEST ferries on the water. Shorpy does it again!In my 67 years I have NEVER heard of a centerwheeler! Shorpy teaches me something new again! Thank you, Shorpy! More PicklesSearching for more information on centerwheelers, I found this. Previously on ShorpyThe ferry is pointed towards the Canal Street dock and the ferry depot which we have seen before here and here. The tall building with multiple smokestacks was in the background when we visited the levee here. (Panoramas, Boats & Bridges, DPC, New Orleans)
The French Quarter: 1890s
"Street in the French Quarter, New Orleans." At left, the portrait studio of photographer Louis ... PHOTOGRAPHER 227 Royal Street, according to the 1893 New Orleans City Directory. Below, the sign over the door, unsquashed by ... are for streetcar tracks. - Dave] (The Gallery, DPC, New Orleans, W.H. Jackson) ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 03/14/2019 - 7:05pm -

"Street in the French Quarter, New Orleans." At left, the portrait studio of photographer Louis Interguglielmi, 227 Royal Street. 5x7 glass negative, taken sometime between 1880 and 1898 by William Henry Jackson. View full size. L. INTERGUGLIELMI, PHOTOGRAPHER227 Royal Street, according to the 1893 New Orleans City Directory. Below, the sign over the door, unsquashed by Photoshop. Nice name!Having studied Italian and married into an Italian family I take a strange pleasure in being able to pronounce that auspicious surname with ease! Hold your noseA fascinating scene to look at, but I'm glad I don't have to smell it. Son of Eugenio?In Sicily (Italy) there was a photographer Eugenio Interguglielmi (1850-1911), I could not find if the two were related. At some moment in time the L. Interguglielmi Photography Studio has been located at New 933 Royal St., between Dumaine and St. Philip. Ruts! Decades of steel rimmed wheels have left some serious ruts in the stone. At least, I assume that's what they are. [Those are for streetcar tracks. - Dave] (The Gallery, DPC, New Orleans, W.H. Jackson)
Behind the Gray Door: 1925
New Orleans circa 1925. "View of a courtyard." Evidently the rear entrance to ... Decrepit I am always amazed at old photos of New Orleans. The french colonial influence is often obvious, and I sometimes ... had clung onto Louisiana. (The Gallery, Arnold Genthe, New Orleans) ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 01/12/2015 - 12:39pm -

New Orleans circa 1925. "View of a courtyard." Evidently the rear entrance to Club Firestone. Note the zigzag extension of the downspout under the patio flags. Nitrate negative by Arnold Genthe. View full size. Actually the VIP entrance.Trust me. You don't want to see the rear entrance. Firestone Tire Display StandThe sign over the porthole is half of a Firestone Tire Display Stand. The slogan beneath the company name reads "More Miles Per Dollar." The second window doesn't show any signs of another eyebrow sign ever having been attached above it. But if it did, it would have looked like this. Now do you see the face? It looks like it's crying. And here's a more modern version of the stand. Cour Intérieure Antoine's had been serving for eighty years, Galatoire's only for thirty. Louis Armstrong had left in '22 for Chicago. I'm not sure of the exact location, but the stone and brick are likely still in place, but no laundry hanging from the balcony. The Renowned Club FirestoneArt Gumm and His Rubber Band appearing nightly for your dining and dancing pleasure. DecrepitI am always amazed at old photos of New Orleans. The french colonial influence is often obvious, and I sometimes have the impression of looking at photos from a decrepit old village in France. This picture is no exception. The crooked pavement, the downspout, the old brick walls, shutters and door. This is so un-american. Small, cramped, dark, decrepit, on the decline ... Makes you wonder what that part of the world would look like if the french had clung onto Louisiana. (The Gallery, Arnold Genthe, New Orleans)
Meet Crushy: 1936
... Crushy / Ball Head Man pops up on a playhouse poster in New Orleans here . [In fact, he's the one in the lower left of my ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 11/05/2012 - 11:10pm -

March 1936. Savannah, Georgia. "Waterfront warehouses." Large-format nitrate negative by Walker Evans for the Farm Security Administration. View full size. Peters Bottling CoAll I could find: 1950, Savannah City Directory, 116-118 West Bay Street. Older buildings are there, but not the ones pictured. Afternoon Sugar TimeWhen I was eight years old in the mid 1950's, I attended a two week long summer camp in the Irish Hills of Michigan. The camp did not have a camp store or PX. However, after the mandatory post lunch rest period each day, the cabin counselors would give you a red plastic bingo card chip and a metal washer. These would be traded in at the camp activity hall for an ice cold Orange Crush and a candy bar. Still love orange pop and chocolate to this day. I try to limit it to once a month. Later when I joined the Boy Scouts, the summer camps had PXs. A cherry Coke with a bag of salted peanuts poured in the cup was popular back then. Parsed Exceeding FineSo, presumably Golden Spike is the analog of Canada Dry, while Buffalo Rock is a Vernor's sort of drink? And to meet this Crushy (if that really _is_ his name), one slips in through the loading dock and makes for the employees' break room? I dialed 4332 for the answer to those and other queries, but apparently nobody's home. Crushy's familyAs you may have noticed, Crushy is a member of that popular Art Deco advertising art family I like to call the Ball Head Men. Two other examples below, courtesy Vintagraph. In recent years the Ball Head Men have enjoyed a revival of their careers and can now be seen on crosswalk signs and bathroom doors all over the world. Nucoa?Another beverage? A forerunner of YooHoo perhaps? Why am I surprised it never took off. [That's on the building next door, presumably a distribution depot for the Nucoa Butter Co., makers of the margarine. - tterrace] Truck BedsI love how the back of the delivery trucks seem to be designed to resemble a six-pack container for returnable bottles! Poster manThe very same year (a month ago in Shorpy time), Crushy / Ball Head Man pops up on a playhouse poster in New Orleans here. [In fact, he's the one in the lower left of my illustration below. - tterrace] Ball Head MenTterrace, I always called those folks "Speedball men," because they could easily be drawn using a certain Speedball drawing or lettering nib. I can't remember which nib, but it's probably down in my art supply box with cobwebs all over it! Buffalo Rock lives!Still bottled (canned, actually...) in Birmingham: http://www.buffalorock.com/products/gingerale.html A different ball headThe trademark of Bic pens and other products is the Bic Boy whose head was inspired by the ball inside of their ballpoint pens around 1960 when I worked there. He is a schoolboy holding a pen behind his back. (The Gallery, Cars, Trucks, Buses, Walker Evans)
Maison Blanche: 1910
New Orleans in 1910. "Maison Blanche, Canal Street." Continuing our tour of ... building in the empty space between them in 1913. New Orleans seems to have kept its old business district department stores ... have been the wonder of the day! (The Gallery, DPC, New Orleans, Stores & Markets, Streetcars) ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 07/19/2012 - 1:01pm -

New Orleans in 1910. "Maison Blanche, Canal Street." Continuing our tour of Crescent City retailers. 8x10 inch glass negative. View full size. Shop at M.B.This was the second Maison Blanche store building at the same location at the downtown lake corner of Canal and Dauphine Streets, completed in 1909. Photo dates from between the completion of the Audubon Building (the lower high-rise to the left) in 1910 and the construction of the Krauss Store building in the empty space between them in 1913. New Orleans seems to have kept its old business district department stores longer than many U.S. cities, so I have fond memories of shopping Maison Blanche -- though I wound up purchasing more at it's lower-priced competition, Krauss's, over on Basin Street, the last of the old Canal Street department stores to fold in 1997. However regulars knew that if you came to Canal Street by car you could still get your free parking validated on the 3rd floor at M.B. even if you didn't make a purchase. The department store occupied the bottom 5 floors of the building. Above was office space -- into the 1980s, still with old direct-current elevators. The store was bought by Dillards and briefly closed down in 1984, then reopened only occupying 3 floors for a few more years. The Maison Blanche building now houses the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. "Buffalo Dental Parlors"Must have used really big chairs and spit sinks. Matrix Sign?I'm really intrigued by what appears to be a matrix sign above Kaufmans. A count of the "pixels" seems to indicate 10 smaller matrices, each of 25 x 20 bulbs, making a total of no less than 5,000 bulbs! Obviously this is far too old to use any sort of digital technology, but I'd have thought a matrix of that size would have been pretty unmanageable with even electro-mechanical switching. Unless it's just a panel of thousands of small bulbs to make a bright rectangle (can't see the point in that) my best guess is it must have relied on something like punched paper tape running though a whole bank of 5,000 microswitches or something. Does anyone know any more about this? Are there any shots of it at night? If so (and if I'm right) - it must have been the wonder of the day! (The Gallery, DPC, New Orleans, Stores & Markets, Streetcars)
Good Night, Mrs. Calabash: 1952
... was a member of an early jazz group called The Original New Orleans Jazz Band in 1918-1919. He was the only non-New Orleanian in the ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 06/06/2013 - 12:44am -

1952. Jimmy Durante rehearsing for the "Colgate Comedy Hour" or "All-Star Revue." Photos by Maurice Terrell and Earl Theisen for a Look magazine article about the TV producer Sam Fuller, "He Keeps Them Happy." View full size. Ham it upThe exaggerated facial mugging was the norm for a dancing girl on that show. On the old kinescopes you can see the dancers projecting a huge amount of personality, and to a very charming effect. Those gals were more than just decorations, they were personalities. Add to that mix that it took a very extreme expression to come through at all on those old TV sets. And as we see here the body language was no less exaggerated. In early TV you had to play to the last row as much as in Vaudeville. Inka Dinka DooWe had our first television in 1950, I believe, a 12 inch Admiral. I was way too young then to fully appreciate some of the remarkable entertainers in those early days of the medium---which was really just an extension of vaudeville. Durante was one of them of course, and other names like Milton Berle, Sid Caesar and Imogene Coca and Burns and Allen come to mind. Keep in mind this stuff was all live, which ruled out second and third takes. Yet week after week these extraordinary people pulled it off to the delight of millions. Sid Caesar once mentioned in an interview that frequently the writers (Mel Brooks and Carl Reiner, among others) for Your Show of Shows would be writing material for the last half of the program at the start of it. Regarding Berle, my understanding is that every program was recorded on 16 mm film, and it was all kept in a storage room at NBC. Then some upwardly mobile executive type decided the space would be better used for one of his pet projects, and he ordered all the Berle film burned. As for the Schnoz, I’ll always remember him signing off singing, “I’ll See You in My Dreams” on a darkened stage, with him in the center of a spotlight beam. And when he had finished the last note, it was, “Goodnight Mrs. Calabash, wherever you are.” The spotlight then went dark, and we were ushered into a Pard dog food commercial, or some other such thing. What a guy!My grandfather, born in 1898, recalled seeing Jimmy and a partner entertaining in a beer garden in Coney Island. This must have been in the summer of 1919, just after my grandfather returned from Europe and WWI. They were both troupers. HilariousHis turn in "The Man Who Came to Dinner" has always been a favorite. Great talent! Also had a nice role in "It Happened in Brooklyn", but more of a straight role, no major buffoonery, just a nice normal fellow. And, of course, "It's a MMMM World" was/is a classic. Up FrontI often wonder how it's decided who gets to be in the front line of dancers and who gets relegated to the back. In this case it would be an easy choice--the young woman on the left almost outshines Mr. Durante, which is no small feat. The TrioFrom the vaudeville days: it was Clayton, Jackson, and Durante. They had various combinations over the years. You can catch them on You Tube. Jimmy the JazzerJimmy Durante was a member of an early jazz group called The Original New Orleans Jazz Band in 1918-1919. He was the only non-New Orleanian in the group. Scary?As a tiny child, I thought his "Ahtchhaaaaachhhaaaachaaa" move was a bit scary. Now I wonder why. Kid brains are weird. (LOOK, TV)
Groundhog Day: 1917
... stop sign at the corner of Canal Street and Royal Street, New Orleans. Note beer advertisement confirming pre-Prohibition date. ... for filming of period scene in movie. Infrogmation of New Orleans (The Gallery, Cars, Trucks, Buses, D.C., Harris + Ewing) ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 05/06/2014 - 8:45am -

"District of Columbia. Traffic Stop and Go signs." Here we are again at 14th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, still waiting for the umbrella to change. After seven days (or is it 91 years) in this intersection, will these dapper gents in their snazzy Haynes roadster ever make it across? Tune in again tomorrow. And maybe the day after that. Harris & Ewing Collection glass negative. View full size. Keep it under 25 next time, ChiefOfficer Stalin seems to be giving them a stern message, but the passenger is smiling so it must not be that bad. Is that a cop on another platform on the other side of the intersection? This Could Be Very FunnyDave, it's time for a new caption contest. Here's a start: You're telling me this car costs 35,000 dollars and it doesn't have airbags? Do You Ever Have Déjà Vu?"I don't know, but I could ask the kitchen." If Bill Murray drove a 1913 Haynes Roadster around, then it would *really* be my all-time favorite movie. Fashionable UniformThat cop is wearing knickers! I guess the Uniform Evaluation Board rejected this novel idea. As Barney Fife often said, "You have to nip it, nip it in the bud." Avoiding a Ticket"Honestly, ossifer, I ain't been drinkin' a drop. Lemme buy some ducats to the Boliceman's Pall!" SlideI can't imagine these cars in winter with those bald front tires. Given the sheer amount of photos this cannot be that busy of an intersection. Can you imagine this happening today? [The front wheels don't have brakes, so it might not have made much difference. Those are two different kinds of tire front and back. Another view of the intersection here.- Dave] 1913 Haynes, or 1915?Well first of all the car is a Haynes. In 1913 Haynes has gas headlamps and an earlier body style. I think this is a 1915 model. It appears that the car is virtually new by the lack of dirt and the excellent paint finish. [The ad below, from the Feb. 16, 1913, New York Times, advertises the Haynes as having "two large electric headlights." Click to enlarge. This is the 1913 Haynes Model 24 four-door touring car. - Dave] Stop signsRotating stop signs were in use in US cities in the 1910s. I wonder if for a time these were more common in some places than the simple stationary sign we all know and love today? Postcard view, officer working a rotating stop sign at the corner of Canal Street and Royal Street, New Orleans. Note beer advertisement confirming pre-Prohibition date. Old rotating stop sign brought out for filming of period scene in movie. Infrogmation of New Orleans (The Gallery, Cars, Trucks, Buses, D.C., Harris + Ewing)
The Quarters: 1937
... with cinder blocks? I was surprised to see that in 1937 New Orleans had drains for rainwater. I suppose there is a correct word for ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 07/22/2012 - 4:40pm -

1937. Charleston, South Carolina. 7-9-11 Beaufain Street, "The Quarters." 8x10 inch acetate negative by Frances Benjamin Johnston. View full size. MusingsWhat would have been in the square that is between the steps, that appears to be filled with cinder blocks? I was surprised to see that in 1937 New Orleans had drains for rainwater. I suppose there is a correct word for that, but I can't think of it. And what is on the notice that is tacked to the left pillar? Looks like there have been others. ["Storm drains," and "For Rent." - Dave] CarefulWatch that first step, it's a lulu. VestigesThe wreckage of another fine old house. Look at the molding over the door. Feelgood Pic of the DayI love these -- they make me feel so much better about my own deferred D-I-Y projects. Back on BeaufainThis was the former rectory of St. Michael's Church. Below, a view of the house taken May 25, 1940, by C.O. Greene for the Historic American Buildings Survey. Additional information: "To be renovated 1941." And, from 1975: "Built before Revolution; demolished after 1944." Whereas FBJ gives the address as Nos. 7 through 11 Beaufain, HABS says 56 Beaufain. Click to enlarge. Clean cut kidsInteresting that the kids seem to be dressed so neatly, in contrast to some of the poor kids in other photos. White shirts and pants weren't part of the costume for the Boston newsies for example. https://www.shorpy.com/node/15 FBJI love Frances Benjamin Johnston's work. I need all of her we can get on Shorpy. [Only around 7,999 left to go. Pull up a chair and make yourself comfortable. - Dave] (The Gallery, Charleston, F.B. Johnston, Kids)
High Water: 1903
... steamer Chalmette during high water, March 23, 1903, New Orleans." 8x10 inch dry plate glass negative, Detroit Publishing Company. ... to prefab houses. (The Gallery, Boats & Bridges, DPC, New Orleans) ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 08/08/2016 - 5:24pm -

"Loading steamer Chalmette during high water, March 23, 1903, New Orleans." 8x10 inch dry plate glass negative, Detroit Publishing Company. View full size. Grand PictureLike a scene out of Show Boat. Wonderful If only we could know the cargoAs a former merchant seaman, I can't imagine lading a ship like that, much less navigating it on the Mississippi. Oh, if only we could know the contents. Cotton for sure, but letters to loved ones, heirlooms, fish and crabs and oysters, maybe some fruit. Much more romantic than a tug and integrated barge full of anhydrous ammonia. Spot, the dogOr spot the dog. Can you see it? I have a half-baked theory that dogs disappeared from city streets when automobiles became prevalent. I developed the theory from my unscientific study of Shorpy photos. One year later she was goneThe "Chalmette" was originally named "The City of Vicksburg", which was wrecked by a cyclone in the harbor of St. Louis. In 1898 she was rebuilt and renamed "The Chalmette". In her life on the river, she was the victim of many small accidents such as breaking of chains or timbers. Finally on July 12, 1904 she hit "a snag" and sank, taking with her her cargo valued at the time at $30,000. There were approximately 40 people on board at the time, but were no fatalities. http://www.louisianadigitallibrary.org/cdm/ref/collection/LWP/id/5042 Mean manual laborWhen I look at all those stevedores making a beeline over that gangway I come to think that container ships may be much more boring to look at than those paddle steamers of yore. But I guess they are much more fun to load and unload. CargoThe contents of the steamship may have been similar to the steamship Arabia's cargo - everything from pickles to dishes to prefab houses. (The Gallery, Boats & Bridges, DPC, New Orleans)
Frogmore: 1862
... for it on Google, but coundn't find it. Here in New Orleans there is a tradition of keeping shutters closed - especially ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 01/28/2009 - 2:06am -

Circa 1862-1865. "Brick church near Frogmore, St. Helena Island, South Carolina." Wet-plate glass negative, photographer unknown. View full size. Frogmore ChurchI live 10 minutes away from this church, on adjacent Lady's Island. It's at Penn Center, a site founded by the Quakers to provide services to the newly-freed plantation slaves just after the Union Army occupied the Beaufort SC area in 1861. I want that House!Lord, what a beautiful church! Incredible brickwork! Elegant brick pilasters. I may not know much about moving pictures, but I do know Old Southern Architecture. The datestone up in the gable end seems to say 1855, but stylistically the house could be about 20 years earlier. Still, if it says 1855, it must be. I wonder if it was a Charleston architect or builder? Oh! The live oak trees and the Spanish moss - I grew up with them in Jacksonville, Florida - and that same sand that almost repels grass... Some historyhttp://www.brickbaptist.com/history.html Here's what it looks like today: View Larger Map GateI would give my eye teeth for that rod iron gate and fence. Friend Jill In the shadeI wonder why all the shutters are closed. Was it to keep it cooler inside? Shutters.How wonderful that the church is still there! And still as elegantly simple as it was when it was new. I looked for it on Google, but coundn't find it. Here in New Orleans there is a tradition of keeping shutters closed - especially between houses and on the sidewalk street side, for privacy. But yes, louvered shutters keep direct sunlight out while allowing cross ventilation. That kept a building degrees cooler inside. Such beautiful country. I can't believe I grew up just down the coast and I've never been to Charleston or Beaufort. Gotta get up there! (The Gallery, Civil War)
Cane Train: 1897
... collar, and they are L.N.O. & T. The Louisville, New Orleans and Texas RR ran from Memphis to New Orleans, and became part of the Illinois Central in 1892. This is ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 12/13/2020 - 2:21pm -

Circa 1897. "Cane fields in Louisiana." Glass negative by William Henry Jackson. View full size. The Cane MutinyAll six gentlemen of yesteryear seem to be glaring into the camera like, Fight Me. Also I have smelled sugar cane growing in the sun (albeit in Florida) and there is no smell like it. Your nose can sense the sweetness. Once, my mom gave me a piece to gnaw on (with my teeth, not my nose). Tastes like sugar. Beware the cane fields of LouisianaWhen our family lived in southern Louisiana for a while, we kids would play in the cane fields. I'd use my trusty Western Auto Barlow knife to cut sugarcane pieces for my pals and me to gnaw on. We quickly learned that snakes were abundant in those cane fields, and half of them were probably dangerous. All were alarming and I decided I'd didn't like sugarcane as much as I had thought I did. Col. Sanders... apparently moonlighted as a railroad worker. A little detective workI blew the photo up to read the initials on the tender's collar, and they are L.N.O. & T. The Louisville, New Orleans and Texas RR ran from Memphis to New Orleans, and became part of the Illinois Central in 1892. This is obviously not that main line, but a dirt track branchline in the sticks. The the crew seems to be in a siding, likely to wait for an opposing train on that rough looking "main track". In spite of the minor assignment this day, the No. 8 looks like a shiny bottle and probably the handiwork of her fireman. Her valve covers (just ahead of the side rods) proclaim her builder as Rogers. She's been around the block a few times, yet still has delicate pinstripes painted on the domes, and had been gussied up with that brass eagle on the sand dome cover, and appears to be in excellent mechanical shape. And that long shank link and pin coupler on the front confirms this shot is before 1900. Attitude 1890s styleI have no idea who the guy on the right is, But I am 100% certain that he is telling the photographer "I'm a mean son of a bitch and I haven't had my coffee yet. What was it you wanted?" No SurrenderShe's flying two white flags, which means she's an unscheduled extra. Possibly the photographer's special train? Maybe a photo taken by their passenger while they wait in the siding, or pulled-off in there to avoid fouling the main line while taking a picture. Canebrake Rattlesnakes are vicious.Those machetes that were used to cut sugarcane came in handy to dispatch rattlers and cottonmouths. Man on rightHalf my comments come from not being able to rip myself away from certain posts for days. I keep coming back to this one because of the man on the right. Why do I feel he’s packing a gun? In fact, all three guys on the ground seem to be gun-toting types. The three on the train: not so much. (The Gallery, Agriculture, DPC, Railroads, W.H. Jackson)
Ak-Sar-Ben, Ah-a-Mo: 1938
... they wanted to try was to bring the Mardi Gras floats from New Orleans to Omaha. While in New Orleans this group was so impressed by the Mardi Gras Krewes that they ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 08/02/2017 - 9:24am -

November 1938. The Ak-sar-ben toll bridge over the Missouri River between Iowa and Nebraska at Omaha. View full size. Photograph by John Vachon. Neat signLove the wording on the sign. Can anybody tell us the origin for the name of the bridge? [Nebraska spelled backwards. - Dave] Thanks.....for clearing that up Dave. Dumb ole me, I thought it was some type of Arabic name. Wonder how much the toll was to cross the bridge? I currently work as a toll collector in AD-IR-OLF but I wouldn't want to put that (name) on a sign, these drivers are usually confused enough. Huh?"Your Tolls Will Make It Free" Um...what?? Beyond that, the toll booth seems to be on the wrong side of the road for a Drive-on-the-left country... Ak-Sar-BenApparently there's more to the story than that. According to Wikipedia it began in the 1890s when a group of local business leaders were trying to keep the Nebraska State Fair in Omaha. One of the things they wanted to try was to bring the Mardi Gras floats from New Orleans to Omaha. While in New Orleans this group was so impressed by the Mardi Gras Krewes that they decided to establish an organization based on that concept in Omaha. When asked to come up with a name one of the members said "Why not reverse the name of our beloved state, since everything seems to be going backwards these days?" Thus was born the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben. One of the things that the Knights did was to buy the Douglas Street Bridge (the first road bridge across the Missouri River) and rename it the Ak-Sar-Ben Bridge. As the sign says they hoped to end the practice of charging tolls. The Bridge eventually became a free bridge in 1947. It was replaced by a girder bridge for I-470 in 1966 and demolished in 1968. Among other things the Knights of Ak-Sar-Ben owned an operated a race track and arena complex from 1920-1990, and were minority owners of an AHL hockey team from 2005-2007. Yo, Nilbog guy!"Your Tolls Will Make It Free" They told us that story here, too. Maybe they meant your Trolls will make it free. The purported idea is that once the cost of building the road has been recaptured, the public will be granted unfettered access. And if you believe that story... Maybe it happened somewhere at sometime, but not in Harris County. Yo, slr in tx guy!Toll roads in Houston/Harris County may be permanent, but things are a bit more civilized in the neighboring Chicken Fried Nation of Dallas-Fort Worth. What is now Interstate 30 between the two downtowns was once called the Dallas-Fort Worth Turnpike. The toll booths disappeared (along with the tolls!) in 1977. Tom Landry HighwayThat section of I-30 was named after The Man in the Hat in 2001. (The Gallery, Boats & Bridges, Cars, Trucks, Buses, John Vachon, Omaha)
On the Waterfront: 1905
... Ohio River in 1893. Owned by Captain LaVerrier Cooley in New Orleans, City Of Camden operated on the lower Mississippi River between New Orleans and the Ouachita and Red Rivers. She was sold to Captain Frank ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 08/15/2012 - 2:41pm -

Mobile, Alabama, circa 1905. "Southern Railway terminals." The freighters Trafalgar and, far right, a sliver of the Marie Suzanne. View full size. Don't Look DownI'm not particularly acrophobic but the two guys and cart on the sagging gangplank give me the heebie jeebies. Munson Sailing ScheduleNotice the SS Trafalgar at the bottom 12 letters, starts with DWho wants to take a stab at identifying the schooner parked next to the Trafalgar? City of CamdenAppears to be the wreckage of the City of Camden (built 1893), a Ouachita River steamboat, on the far shore. To get to Mobile Bay, she would have gone down the Ouachita, the Tensas and Black Rivers, the Mississippi, and then east along the Gulf Coast to Mobile. Regular Sailings to Cuba Blue Book of American Shipping: 1911. From Mobile, Ala. To Cuba. Regular sailings of Munson Steamship Line to Havana, Matanzas, Cardenas, Sagua, Caibarien, Cienfugos, Guantanamo, Manzanillo, Santiago and other ports. James Gibboney & Co., agents, Mobile, Ala. This service is operated on a traffic agreement with the Southern Ry. and Mobile & Ohio R. R. (J.S. Taylor, F.F.A., Mobile, Ala.); also with the Louisville & Nashville R. R. (J.A. Bywater, F.F.A., Louisville, Ky.) Regular sailings of Munson Steamship Line to Colon-Panama. Main office: 82-02 Beaver st., New York. More City of CamdenA stern-wheel packet with wood hull (175 ft. x 35 ft. x 5 ft.), City Of Camden was built at Howard Shipyards and Dock Company (Jeffersonville , Indianna) on the Ohio River in 1893. Owned by Captain LaVerrier Cooley in New Orleans, City Of Camden operated on the lower Mississippi River between New Orleans and the Ouachita and Red Rivers. She was sold to Captain Frank Lumsden of Mobile, Alabama in 1904 and was blown onto a mud flat during a hurricane Dismantled in 1910. (This was almost certainly the hurricane of September 1906. There was not a notable storm at Mobile in 1905. So, I am of the opinion that the main photo “On the Waterfront: 1905” which is tagged “circa 1905” is actually from late 1906 or later.) (The Gallery, Boats & Bridges, DPC, Mobile, Railroads)
Rice Creek: 1890s
... definitely depicts a swamp full of breeding alligators. New Orleans has similar scenes with Spanish moss and snakes draping the trees ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 05/18/2014 - 12:31am -

Putnam County, Florida, circa 1890s. "Rice Creek near Brown's Landing." A tributary of the St. Johns River near Palatka. 8x10 inch glass negative by William Henry Jackson. View full size. Always the artistI'm most familiar with Jackson's Western photographs. He was such a consummate artist, and nowhere is this more obvious than in the composition of this photograph. Women and Children FirstBefore I left the shore in that canoe I would require three things: life jacket, large bailing bucket and a lifeboat. Make that four things-- a 16 oz. bottle of Alligator-B-Gone will come in handy. Good Deed Doers!My ex-wife, Beth Hollenbeck, runs an outfit called Eco-Action. And every weekend this group is out in their canoes hauling awful trash from these once pristine rivers in Florida. I had the honor of helping them one summer and taking photos. You can not believe what they haul out of these lovely waters! Been there. I was in this river recently and while I did not see a lot of trash, it certainly has changed. During spring break hundrerds of young people from the nearby college go in tubes and drink beer, smoke and play music... That is when, I guess the trash arrives.! Florida as it Once WasOh, for a time machine. "Down in Louisiana"Yes, I know this is Florida, but as soon as I clicked on "hi-def image" and the swamp drew me in, the lyrics to "Polk Salad Annie" by Tony Joe White (1968) popped into my mind, mainly those that say "where the alligators grow so mean" because this definitely depicts a swamp full of breeding alligators. New Orleans has similar scenes with Spanish moss and snakes draping the trees and heaven knows what may be lurking in the sultry stew of swamp water. I love all of the variety of moods and themes in America, but there is something so unique and special and earthy about the deep south, so very real and yet mysterious. It's great to be alive if you don't discuss politics. Good Deed Doers reduxOne afternoon of trash collecting and this was a slow day! Photo: Missing colorsHere's a photo that really needs colorizing. Vernacular WatercraftThat boat appears to be a dugout canoe slightly modified to be more rowboat-like, a fairly common type of craft at that place and time. Some were made into the 20th century. All it took was a cypress log, an axe, and time, all of which were in plentiful supply. At the far right, there's a tantalizing glimpse of dock pilings (Brown's Landing?) and the bow of a larger boat. I'd sure like a better look. (The Gallery, Boats & Bridges, Florida, W.H. Jackson)
Hazy River: 1905
New Orleans circa 1905. "Mississippi River from Hennen Building." Panorama made ... the state's northern parishes see it about once a year. New Orleans' last snowfall, in 2004, was a dusting that came nine months before ... these old-time shots is astonishing. (Panoramas, DPC, New Orleans) ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 10/16/2020 - 11:09am -

New Orleans circa 1905. "Mississippi River from Hennen Building." Panorama made from four 8x10 inch glass negatives. Detroit Publishing Company. View full size. Shorpy business buildingEvery morning a few new photos in storefront window. Those were the days. PanoWhat a great job stitching those four images together. When I embigulate and then scroll back and forth, left and right, I feel the whole image wrap around me. I can’t believe it’s flat. Exhilarating. Smoke 'em if ya got 'emWith all those chimneys belching black smoke, it's a wonder the rooftop snow looks so white. [Um, no snow. Sometimes I wonder about you people ... - Dave] Sometimes I wonder about YOU, Dave. The wintry weather is rare in south Louisiana, though the state's northern parishes see it about once a year. New Orleans' last snowfall, in 2004, was a dusting that came nine months before Hurricane Katrina struck. The record snowfall for the city is about 5 inches, recorded Dec. 30, 1963. It sure looks like snow, melted in some places, and may have been the rare event that triggered the photos. (Look at the rooftop in the center foreground). However, I've been to Mardi Gras in NOLA (in Feb, I think) when it SEEMED cold enough to snow. But shells make perfect sense the white would reflect the heat. I still stand by my comment that it's a wonder the rooftops are still so white with the smoke. Griswold JewelerAd for Griswold Jeweler Snowy RooftopsWhat appears to be snow, as mentioned by a commenter below, is actually white stone or crushed shell, used to keep the buildings cooler in summer by reflecting the sun's heat up. The clarity of these old-time shots is astonishing. (Panoramas, DPC, New Orleans)
Culpeper Court House: 1862
... in the Bilein' Pot... Hi - New commenter John in New Orleans here, even though I've enjoyed the incredible photos for a while... ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 01/09/2009 - 9:25am -

August 1862. "Culpeper Court House, Virginia. Federal soldiers and wounded Negro." Wet-plate glass negative by Timothy H. O'Sullivan. View full size. A House DividedThose two recessed walls are done in Scottish bond (like so many others we've seen here) but the center wall is mainly done in runner bond - with a twist. Looks as though the width of that section was a bit too wide for the dimensions of a common brick and so they had to fill in a little bit with brick-pieces. There's damage at the bottom of that section, too, causing - what looks like - a collapse. Was it hit by a cannonball? Yes, that's wool...The uniforms were made of wool. I wore a reproduction of this type of uniform when I was reenacting. Yes it was hot in the summer but their bodies were more accustomed to the heat than ours are. Many soldiers wore cotton shirts underneath but there are many instances of them wearing wool shirts as well, including at Gettysburg, which of course took place in July. Put those clothes in the Bilein' Pot...Hi - New commenter John in New Orleans here, even though I've enjoyed the incredible photos for a while... Yep - I think it's high summer (leaves on the trees) in Virginia and those are wool clothes - and those guys are probably lucky to have them! I don't want to think about how long they might have had them on... Pass the Gold Bond Powder, pleaseAugust in Virginia. Does anyone know what the soldier's uniform is made of? Looks like wool -- hope I'm wrong. The women must be on the verge of heatstroke. Amazing photo. A Hard LifeJust looking at this image makes my bones creak. You can almost feel the tired muscles and aches and pains of an exhausting life. (The Gallery, Civil War, Timothy O'Sullivan)
Horsy Chapeau: 1923
New Orleans circa 1923. "View of a street and roofs." Also an ice wagon whose ... that sound? I like these early 20s photos of New Orleans and can almost hear the jazz and Dixieland music in the background. ... fame and fortune. (The Gallery, Arnold Genthe, Horses, New Orleans) ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 01/22/2014 - 11:46am -

New Orleans circa 1923. "View of a street and roofs." Also an ice wagon whose horse is wearing a hat. Bonus points if you can identify the street. Nitrate negative by Arnold Genthe. View full size. Was JFK responsiblefor horses not wearing hats anymore too? Looks like Royal StreetBetween Gov Nicholls and Barracks. View Larger Map Listen, what's that sound?I like these early 20s photos of New Orleans and can almost hear the jazz and Dixieland music in the background. Of course, by this time many of the city's jazz greats had moved on to other cities in search of fame and fortune. (The Gallery, Arnold Genthe, Horses, New Orleans)
Crossing Canal: 1890
New Orleans circa 1890. "St. Charles Hotel from Canal Street." 5x7 inch glass ... the horsecar after them. Most cities (including New Orleans) tried replacing horsecars with different solutions: ammonia ... powered streetcars using trolleys became the norm. In New Orleans, horsecars were replaced by overhead powered electric streetcars ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 03/17/2019 - 9:47am -

New Orleans circa 1890. "St. Charles Hotel from Canal Street." 5x7 inch glass negative by William Henry Jackson. View full size. Look CloselyThose streetcars have some real horsepower! Horsecar HistoryHorse powered omnibuses (called horsecars) were very common in the 19th century. The problem with horsecars was the horses. Specifically horse manure and urine. Horses could also panic, dragging the horsecar after them. Most cities (including New Orleans) tried replacing horsecars with different solutions: ammonia engines, steam "dummies" (effectively a small steam engine inside a converted horsecar), battery powered cars, cable cars. Eventually electric overhead powered streetcars using trolleys became the norm. In New Orleans, horsecars were replaced by overhead powered electric streetcars starting in 1893. A few cities still have streetcars (San Francisco), but buses pretty much replaced them by the 1960s. Individual traffic on railsThere are some cities (in know Lisbon and Linz) that used special gauges in order to avoid carriage traffic on their tracks. This photo shows the reason quite well as the gig is just rerailed. (The Gallery, DPC, New Orleans, Streetcars, W.H. Jackson)
Bamananas: 1906
... About 50 years later I saw the same scene in New Orleans in 1955. All fruit turning yellow was abandoned at the dock. ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 08/15/2012 - 4:35pm -

Mobile, Alabama, circa 1906. "Unloading a banana steamer." 8x10 inch dry plate glass negative, Detroit Publishing Company. View full size. Big TintThe leaning tower of Sherwin-Williams! Wonder if you can get banana yellow. Is that a Banana ...Oh wait, I already used that one. (Fire) ants marchingMobile is where fire ants entered America, unfortunately. Riding in on some banana stalks, circa the time this picture was taken. Evil little devils. About 50 years laterI saw the same scene in New Orleans in 1955. All fruit turning yellow was abandoned at the dock. Nice titleand by "nice" I mean "required several attempts before I got it, and then I laughed." Day-oDay, me say day-ay-ay-o Daylight come and me wan' go home Day, me say day, me say day, me say day... Daylight come and me wan' go home A beautiful bunch a' ripe banana Daylight come and me wan' go home Hide the deadly black tarantula Daylight come and me wan' go home Hey Buddy!Me: You gotta banana in your ear! Hey Buddy! HEY BUDDY! You: I can't hear you. Can't you see I gotta banana in my ear? Anyone know why the tower is built like that? Doesn't seem like an efficient way to load or off-load tall ships. Looks like a safety ladder on the right (front) side. Banana ballisticsThere's something on the port-side bow that looks a lot like an old cannon. It's poking out under the railing and has an ornate carriage. What would that be for? Signaling purposes or decoration, or were there banana pirates abounding in the seas? You can see the anchor lying on deck just behind the cannon. (The Gallery, Boats & Bridges, DPC, Mobile)
Chess, Checkers & Whist: 1903
... scientific games of Chess, Checkers, and Whist." New Orleans circa 1903. "Chess, Checkers and Whist Club, Canal and Baronne ... some connection with Paul Morphy (1837-1884), a lifelong New Orleans resident, who was a self-taught chess prodigy (and eccentric) and ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 08/15/2017 - 2:31pm -

        According to the charter of the social club, founded in 1880, "the purposes and objects of the corporation are to promote the knowledge and encourage the development of the scientific games of Chess, Checkers, and Whist." New Orleans circa 1903. "Chess, Checkers and Whist Club, Canal and Baronne streets." 8x10 inch dry plate glass negative. View full size. Paul MorphyIt seems likely that this chess club had some connection with Paul Morphy (1837-1884), a lifelong New Orleans resident, who was a self-taught chess prodigy (and eccentric) and unofficial world chess champion for a number of years. A Dentist For BovinesThe Buffalo dentist (right of the photo above the Offner's store) must have to use pretty big tools to get at those teeth, not to mention getting skewered by the horns. So then having a Buffalo Dentist above a China Shop is not a good thing? Boys BewareOffner's was the kind of store my mother kept me out of, for good reason! BollardsThere are two bollards in the street. Each appears to have a tilt and a ball on the top. Any idea what they were for? (The Gallery, New Orleans, Stores & Markets)
VicPenn: 1943
March 1943. "New Orleans oil truck." Note the wings atop the tank. Medium format negative by ... (The Gallery, Cars, Trucks, Buses, John Vachon, New Orleans) ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 11/04/2013 - 7:46am -

March 1943. "New Orleans oil truck." Note the wings atop the tank. Medium format negative by John Vachon, Office of War Information. View full size. Mirror? What Mirror?Many times I have seen pictures of assorted trucks on Shorpy that sported very small outside mirrors or, more commonly, none at all. Considering the volatile nature of this truck's contents it must have not been a safety consideration during this era to have some kind of mirror on the passenger side. Safety chainNote the anti-static grounding chain dangling under the rear of the trailer. This was common practice well into the 1950's. When a tank truck passed you could hear the chain jingling as its end dragged and bounced along the road. Purpose of the smaller cans?Would the driver be using those smaller cans to trade full for empty cans from smaller users? I'd guess they are five-gallon capacity, and they are probably all painted red, although some are pretty beaten up. Looks as though the rail holding them in is permanent, so maybe they were a fixture of the relatively young delivery system which was still evolving. [See these two forum posts. -tterrace] Wasn't that a punk band?The Inflammables, I mean. I've never seen it used in the plural like that, although when I was a kid in the '60's they seemed to be transitioning from that to "flammable." Nowadays they just run with the Hazmat placard. It reminds me of R.E. Lee's soldiers, calling themselves "Lee's Miserables." Static ElectricityDragging chains, and spring loaded wires sticking up from the pavement at toll booths, are no longer necessary. Modern-day tires aren't such good electrical insulators as their older versions were. Tires are now built to dissipate static electricity and keep it from building up on the vehicle. (The Gallery, Cars, Trucks, Buses, John Vachon, New Orleans)
Beer for Rent: 1943
... travel the entire stretch of Hwy. 90 between Lafayette and New Orleans almost on a weekly basis for work and still had to study this photo ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 06/17/2008 - 1:38am -

March 1943. "Raceland, Louisiana. U.S. Highway 90." View full size. Medium format nitrate negative by John Vachon for the Office of War Information. Borne'sI know the Borne family...it's amazing what Shorpy turns up. SignsI own a sign company and would love to have those old signs in my shop! Raceland I'm from Raceland and would love to have a copy of this photo. I have one of the old bridge that crosses Bayou Lafourche. JBoogawa@yahoo.com I'm also interested in any old photos of Raceland. Contact me. I want the signs!The signs shown here are awesome! Can I please have them ALL? WowWhat a difference 66 years makes! I travel the entire stretch of Hwy. 90 between Lafayette and New Orleans almost on a weekly basis for work and still had to study this photo for about 30 minutes trying to pinpoint where this was taken. Parking During WartimeInteresting parking regulations in that town. I see two cars parked parallel with the curb facing the opposite way of traffic, one parked diagonally nose in, and one parked perpendicular to the curb, tail in. (That last one could have a driver and be pulling into this "main street" to make a turn). But they do at least have one regulation. You can't park near the bridge. If you come to that town, you need to know, that is the one and only rule they seem to have. Great titlesOne thing I love about this website is the witty headers, like this one's ~ "Beer for Rent"! Does the same person come up with all of those headers? [He does! - Dave] (The Gallery, Eateries & Bars, John Vachon)
Moldy Manse: 1937
New Orleans, 1937. "Le Pretre Mansion, 716 Dauphine Street, built 1835-6. ... Palace." The legend of the massacre, much beloved of New Orleans ghost tour guides is, of course, bogus. The legend, initially ... another photograph. (The Gallery, F.B. Johnston, New Orleans) ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 11/07/2013 - 2:24pm -

New Orleans, 1937. "Le Pretre Mansion, 716 Dauphine Street, built 1835-6. Joseph Saba house." Our third look at the so-called Sultan's Palace. 8x10 inch acetate negative by Frances Benjamin Johnston. View full size. Not so much moldy as batteredThis Old House has it listed as a murder house; although the whole sultan's murder (+ all of his entourage) may be apocryphal. And it still looks pretty much the same: This is exactly the placeI pictured in my head that Ignatius J. Reilly's mama had her automobile accident. Origin of the LegendThe Gardette-LaPretre house, aka the "House of the Turk" and the "Sultan's Palace." The legend of the massacre, much beloved of New Orleans ghost tour guides is, of course, bogus. The legend, initially published in the 1840's, probably predates the 1836 construction of the still extant house shown in this lovely 1930's photograph. The first mention of the story that I'm aware of is in Charles Gayarre's History of Louisiana, published in 1846 in French. This is only 10 years after construction of the present building, and Gayarre claims that he first heard the story around 1820 from an eighty-year old gentleman who heard the story from his own father. In Gayarre's tale, the incident took place in 1727 over a hundred years before construction of the Gardette-LaPretre house, and before any of the present buildings in the French Quarter were built. At that time, most of the city residences were crude wood-framed cottages, of which none remain. Referred to by the author as a legend, his story is actually relatively simple and plausible. A member of the Ottoman sultan's family, possibly a brother, escaped disfavor by fleeing to Paris, and was, for diplomatic reasons, exiled by the French to the then very remote and undeveloped colony of Louisiana, being kept under house arrest at a small cottage at the corner of Orleans and Dauphine. Then, after a dark and stormy night, the cottage was found empty with a newly dug grave in the garden along with an engraved marble plaque: "The justice of heaven is satisfied, and the date-tree shall grow on the traitor's tomb. The sublime Emperor of the faithful, the supporter of the faith, the omnipotent master and Sultan of the world, has redeemed his vow. God is great, and Mohammed is his prophet. Allah!" There is mention of a Turkish vessel seen in Barataria Bay and a troop of murderers lurking through the storm. Shortly afterwards an unusual date palm sprouted from the grave. Apparently fratricide was at one time part of the normal means of succession of the Ottoman empire, and at the time of the supposed events, rival family members were often put under house arrest in the palace harem. Perhaps the crisis associated with the 1730 Janissary revolt. Succession of a new Sultan could have caused an important Ottoman to flee Istanbul. In any case, the story seems to have centered on explaining a well-known, curious old palm tree that was present on the site at the time of Gayarre's writing. The more lurid tales of a bloody massacre told today seem based on a work of fiction by Helen Pitkin Schertz, "The Brother of the Sultan," in Legends of Louisiana (1922). The curious date palm has it's own romantic legend, but that's another photograph. (The Gallery, F.B. Johnston, New Orleans)
Name That Ship!
... , which was launched on March 12, 1958. Renamed New Orleans for scrapping, she was beached at Alang, India in December 2003. ... the dock. On September 6 the last buyer renamed her New Orleans and soon began repairs that would allow her to sail under her own ... 
 
Posted by Jim Page - 09/21/2012 - 9:35pm -

Another slide from the past. This ship may be, according to a web history I found, the Argentina, but my recollection from those days was that it was named the Amazon Princess or something similar. My dad worked on the vessel as an electrician during slack periods in his flying, and he took me up in his float plane to watch it being launched. It was 1958 or so at the Ingalls Shipyard in Pascagoula, Mississippi. I was in the first grade, so my memory is rather hazy regarding details. Dad had built a little ramp/turntable tiedown for his pontoon-fitted Super Cub on the Pascagoula River not far from the F.B. Walker and Sons Dry Dock. I have several photos of all that if anyone is interested in seeing them. View full size. See more photos?Jim Page, we are Shorpy-ites, so, of course, we want to see more photos! Plus, I grew up in Gulfport, so this is close to home. TwinsThese two ships (the white hulled one on the left and the one to its right that is surrounded by scaffolding and has a crane off its starboard quarter) were the last passenger luxury ocean liners ever built in the United States. Parts for their construction were gathered from all of the (then) 48 states. Bidding $24,444,181 per ship, Ingalls Shipyards—still the largest private employer in Mississippi—had won the contract from Moore-McCormack Lines to build replacements for aging ships of the same names that had been built in 1928. The earlier ships were owned by the United States Federal Maritime Board and operated by Moore-McCormack Lines. As part of a $3,500,000,000 program to rebuild America’s merchant marine fleet, the Federal Maritime Board contributed about $20,000,000 toward the cost of building the two new passenger liners. They were known by many names during their more than 45-year careers. Perhaps some of us sailed on them without knowing their original names. On the left is the S.S. Brasil (correct spelling), which was launched on December 16, 1957. Renamed the Universe for scrapping, she was beached at Alang, India in late 2004. From 1996 to 2004, as the Universe Explorer, she had been part of the Semester at Sea program sponsored by the University of Pittsburgh and administered by the Institute for Shipboard Education. During her career she had been known as: Brasil (1958-72); Volendam (1972-75); Monarch Sun (1975-78); Volendam (again, 1978-84); Island Sun (floating hotel in Quebec, 1984-85); Liberté (1985-87); Canada Star (1987-89); Queen of Bermuda (1989-90);, Enchanted Seas (1990-95); and Universe Explorer (1995-2004). In Hong Kong for extensive refurbishing to return her to cruise ship status, she was instead sold to scrappers in November 2004 and renamed Universe. Later that month the Universe, f/k/a S.S. Brasil sailed for Alang, India, where she was beached at high tide on December 7, 2004. - - - The one to her right is her sister ship, the S.S. Argentina, which was launched on March 12, 1958. Renamed New Orleans for scrapping, she was beached at Alang, India in December 2003. During her career she had been known as: Argentina (1958-72); Veendam (1972-72); Brasil (1974-76); Monarch Star (1976-78); Veendam (again, 1978-84); Bermuda Star (1984-90); Enchanted Isle (1990-94); Hotel Commodore (floating hotel in St. Petersburg, Russia, 1994-95);, Enchanted Isle (again, 1995-2003). On December 30, 2000 the Enchanted Isle docked at Violet, Louisiana after her owner declared bankruptcy. Between December 30, 2000 and September 5, 2003 the Enchanted Isle was sold a number of times, but never left the dock. On September 6 the last buyer renamed her New Orleans and soon began repairs that would allow her to sail under her own power to the breakers in Alang, India. The New Orleans, f/k/a S.S. Argentina, arrived there on December 4, 2003 and was beached five days later. Information on the full careers of both the S.S. Brasil and the S.S. Argentina can be found here on the right side of the list under "The Modern Fleet (1958 to 1969)." Another site with great pictures can be found here. Be sure to follow the "SS Brasil & Argentina to SS Universe Explorer INDEX" links at the bottom of the page. Yes, More PhotosI would love to see what photos you have from that time frame. I was 23 yrs old when I started work at Ingalls in July 1957 as a helper in the Fab Shop. I remember the Brasil and Argentina very well. That is the Brasil on #1 Way, apparently being launched. Argentina is just south of her. By 1958 I was a pipe welder working on the Eagle Tankers and the destroyers. After suffering through a couple of layoffs, like all shipyard workers, I eventually became a piping inspector in the nuclear submarine program and then advanced to a test director. That was the most enjoyable time of my working career. Sea trials with Admiral Hyman Rickover, first dives to test depth, working with ships crews to complete the construction, idiot officers and competent enlisted men, freedom to perform what needed to be done to get the job done and many stories to tell - most of which people would tend not believe. Of all the Boats I worked on, Haddock was my favorite. I left Ingalls in 1974 when they ended their participation in the Submarine program and joined the Bechtel Power Corporation. They were a fine company to work for and took me all over the United States and part of the far east working on nuclear power plants. I have many tales to tell that would probably bore the horns off of a Billy Goat. (ShorpyBlog, Member Gallery)
The Ice Wagon: 1923
New Orleans circa 1923. "Upper stories of buildings with wrought iron ... in a commercial ice plant, the first of which opened in New Orleans in 1868. -tterrace] Looks just the same today Except for ... house on Royal St"). (The Gallery, Arnold Genthe, New Orleans) ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 01/22/2014 - 11:36am -

New Orleans circa 1923. "Upper stories of buildings with wrought iron balconies." 4x5 nitrate negative by Arnold Genthe. View full size. Real (ICE) Men!My paternal grandfather was an iceman. Born in 1890, he lived in the "Hell's Kitchen" area of NYC at 39th Street and 11th Avenue. He plied his trade in this same area, and believe me, the buildings were a lot higher than the ones in this photo, and most had NO elevators back then, so he carried the ice up on his back. Even after moving to Astoria, Queens, he worked long exhausting days, and well past his 65th birthday. I remember, as a small child, that after working all day, he would bounce me on his knee, and play with me, sometimes for hours. As I sit typing this in my soft, cushy office, I can't help thinking that I wish I had half the character and strength this man had. RIP Grandpa! Cast not wroughtGiven the detail of the uprights and arched overheads, the railing system is most likely cast iron not forged wrought iron. By the late 1800's and into the early 1900's cast iron railings, and even whole building facades, were possible. Indeed, they took off in popularity primarily because they allowed for intricate designs that were too difficult to produce via forge work. Looks like a little Theft.. Looks like there is a home made "tap" of the utility going on (top center wires)Some one has thrown a weighted wire over the open wire and run it along the roof top. Still a common means of getting power south of the border and other poorer parts for the world. Wonder where?Wonder where the ice came from? I remember in the Northwestern Pennsylvania town of Stoneboro, harvesting ice from near-by Sandy Lake was a major industry. It was cut out in large blocks and stored on layers of straw in the town's ice house, to last often into the summer! I suppose they and other enterprising northern towns exported some as well. [It would have been made locally in a commercial ice plant, the first of which opened in New Orleans in 1868. -tterrace] Looks just the same todayExcept for the the ice wagon and above ground wires, this part of Royal St looks just the same today. View is of 1127, 1133, and 1135 Royal St photographed from the second floor balcony of the Lalaurie mansion (aka "the haunted house on Royal St"). (The Gallery, Arnold Genthe, New Orleans)
Jackson Square Panorama: 1903
New Orleans circa 1903. "Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral." Panorama made ... mysterious silver streetcar went by. (Panoramas, DPC, New Orleans) ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 10/14/2020 - 4:55pm -

New Orleans circa 1903. "Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral." Panorama made from two 8x10 inch glass negatives. Detroit Photographic Company. View full size. No street performers!Undoubtedly my favorite place to visit. I hope some more NOLA pictures are coming! [Cliquez-vous. - Dave] Yes, thanks Dave, I looked at them this morning! Jackson Square and St. Louis CathedralYou know it is interesting that if you look at google earth pro, same location you will find that the building clock is almost at the same time as shown in the 1903 photo. Speaking of street performersOver there at about 3 o'clock on the circle, back in the late '70s, a kid about 10 years old told me, "For a dollar I bet I can tell you where you got them shoes." I said, OK. Then he said, "You got them shoes right here on the pavement in Jackson Square." I gave him the dollar for ingenuity. In reply to Mike BCould it be that the clock was stopped in 1903, and hasn't moved a minute since? Now that could be one possibility. Future PerfectThat clock tower was hit by lightning in 1903 and hasn't worked since. Just after a mysterious silver streetcar went by. (Panoramas, DPC, New Orleans)
River City: 1910
Circa 1910. "New Orleans, Louisiana. N.O. & Mississippi river from Hotel Grunewald." At ... seen under construction in 1911 (Panoramas, DPC, New Orleans, Stores & Markets, Streetcars) ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 03/07/2016 - 12:30pm -

Circa 1910. "New Orleans, Louisiana. N.O. & Mississippi river from Hotel Grunewald." At left, the Maison Blanche department store on Canal Street. Panorama made from five 8x10 inch glass negatives. View full size. Oh! We Got Trouble!Right here in River City, I mean trouble, that starts with T and rhymes with P and that stands for POOL! Trouble, trouble, trouble. Sorry, could not resist that Still standingThe Hotel Grunewald which became the Roosevelt which became the Fairmont and is now the Roosevelt again. The Grunewald was almost a grownup when this photo was taken, having opened in 1893. The Maison Blanch building is still there and it's now a Ritz Carlton. YowzaThanks for the great panoramic Dave, haven't seen one of these in a while. Any chance of a Shorpy movie coming soon? Not much earlier than 1910Louisiana Supreme Court building (large, tall, white stone Beaux Arts structure in middle of Quarter) opened in 1910, main construction finished 1909. A whole block of early 19c buildings was razed to build this out-of-place structure. Supreme court moved out in 1958 as building was crumbling. The Wildlife and Fisheries Commision was last occupant until early 1980s (locals still call it "The Wildlife and Fisheries Building)." After many years vacancy, the building was totally renovated and the Supreme Court is back there since 2004. Probably 191114-story Whitney National Bank Building, 228 St Charles seen under construction in 1911 (Panoramas, DPC, New Orleans, Stores & Markets, Streetcars)
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