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Pills & Potions: 1942
... Case of the Rusted Room," first published in 1937 as a Clue Club Mystery, is a golden-age British whodunit by the prolific ... long stem cigarette holder and maybe time travel back to 1937. Carboy The large bottle on the top shelf with hoses coming out, in ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 05/17/2019 - 5:55pm -

March 1942. Washington, D.C. "Interior of a drugstore on 14th Street N.W." Medium format acetate negative by John Ferrell for the Office of War Information. View full size. Pablumwas a great hot cereal, and you could make a drum out of the old container. It was even better with banana flakes (not shown), which came in a resealable tin. Look at the LoveliesBetty Grable gracing the cover of Photoplay (May 1942 issue) and Penny Singleton on Hollywood (April 1942). All gummed upI could see these three people behind the counter. Uncensored!Uncensored Detective Volume 1, No. 1, April 1942. Don't you just want to read the lurid details? Me, I'm wondering where the comics are. Mazda Lamps?Yes, indeed. Co-opted by Thomas Edison and trademarked until 1945, Mazda was originally the name of the Zoroastrian patron of light and wisdom. Perhaps it was Mazda who later brought us those fluorescent light "bulbs" that look like something dispensed by the local Dairy Queen. Barely Enough LightA blackout lamp was a regular bulb, but then painted black except for a one inch in diameter spot at the top. The bulb was used only in the downward position. Maybe this will get their attention! THE SEX SLAYING CANNIBAL of OLYMPIA Blackout LampsI didn't know they sold those during the war. It's never too late to learn something. Shoeshine ManWhen I was very little I can remember polishing my "mary janes" for church ( and by that I mean my mother polished them and I "helped" ). Now I wouldn't even know where to look for shoe polish. Does it still exist?? Did WD-40 figure in solving the case?      "The Case of the Rusted Room," first published in 1937 as a Clue Club Mystery, is a golden-age British whodunit by the prolific Nigel Morland (here writing under the pen-name John Donavan).      From the dustjacket: "A curious and baffling murder mystery introduces a uniquely scientific detective: Johnny Lamb, sleuth by profession, outstanding scientist by avocation. The plot is ingenious, the characters alive, and the narrative moves briskly."      The novel is still available on Kindle so go curl up on your overstuffed Bonaparte Traditional Sofa with an Applejack Rabbit Cocktail and put a Lucky Strike into your long stem cigarette holder and maybe time travel back to 1937. CarboyThe large bottle on the top shelf with hoses coming out, in a wooden crate, is a carboy. I worked for my dad in his drugstore in the early '50s and one of my jobs was siphoning muriatic acid into gallon bottles from a very large carboy. Paid strict attention and never spilled any or burned myself. One of my favourite songs"You got a cute vest-pocket Mazda, which you can make glow slow and fasta" - Glow Worm, recorded by the wonderful Mills Brothers. I still always picture a guy with a toy car in his pocket. "Font"-tastic!I really love that Art Deco "Prescriptions" sign across the top! It looks so sleek and modern. (The Gallery, D.C., John Ferrell, Medicine, Stores & Markets)
Old Amsterdam: 1941
... what year? Absolutely love this site. My guess is 1937. Street sign hiding digit Taxi office downstairs and call 666? ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 09/09/2013 - 10:21am -

October 1941. "Amsterdam, New York." Walnut and East Main on a rainy day. Dare you to "Ring Bell for Taxi." Photo by John Collier. View full size. Crowning momentSome of the buildings in the second block survived. Note the arched cornice. The lamposts appeared to be chopped with new fixtures applied. Also a Packard fanAs you did, switzarch, the first thing I saw was that dreamboat of a Packard. Would have been nice to see more of the car. They just don't make 'em that way anymore. The fates were not kindMost of the buildings seen here were demolished in the 1960's or 70's for the construction of a shopping mall and a new bridge over the Mohawk River. Like its counterparts in many tired old Rust Belt cities, the mall was supposed to turn around Amsterdam's economic fortunes, which had declined when the city lost the carpet mills that had long been its mainstay. In what should come as absolutely no surprise to anyone, the mall itself failed. Today it's known as the Amsterdam Riverfront Center and mostly houses professional offices. Amsterdam itself, like much of Upstate, is trapped in a "death spiral" of a shrinking tax base, ever-increasing tax rates, business losses, and a declining population. There are a few more fortunate spots: Elmira has benefited from natural gas extraction across the nearby Pennsylvania border; Cornell University has long been a boost to Ithaca; and Albany enjoys a measure of stability from being the home of the state government (about the only thing in Amsterdam's favor is that it's within commuting distance of Albany). Most of Upstate, however, seems to be devolving into the northern outpost of Appalachia. 1938 PackardNice. Ask the Man Who Owns OneI guess the guy who owns the Packard is at the Barber. Packard, but what year?Absolutely love this site. My guess is 1937. Street sign hiding digitTaxi office downstairs and call 666? How far downstairs is that office? Time TravelI wonder how many people like us, who peruse these history and photo websites, wish we could go back in time, walk these streets, stop into the shops, talk with the shopkeepers, the people on the street -- just to hear their thoughts about living in their town at this time. What a fascinating trip that would be! Dial 666Not sure if I want to take that ride! Yes, IndeedThat beautiful Packard is the first thing I noticed. Very nice. Every building in this shot is now goneThey tore down the entire block in the early '70s and replaced it with an eyesore of a shopping center. What a shame. Hell of a RideWhat is that missing number? Does that sign really say to call "666" for your taxi from "downstairs"? Packard Deluxe Emblem - 1939The tightly spaced vertical grille bars in combination with this hood emblem and chrome headlight bezels positively identifies the Packard as a 1939 model Packard (17th Series). The 1940 Packard's had fewer grille bars and body colored headlight bezels. No Packard hood emblem before 1939 had a glass portion (except motometers which this is obviously not). This car also has an accessory center bumper guard. The 1939 - 1940 Packard hood emblem, finished in chrome and glass, was designed by John D. Wilson. It was given Design Patent 114,358 on April 18, 1939 (assigned to Packard). This hood ornament was used from 1939 through the cease of U.S. car manufacturing in 1942 for the duration of WWII. The rounded front of the emblem base identifies it as a 1939 or 1940 model. If the front of the base is squared off it is a 1941 or 1942 model emblem. There are a couple of variations of this hood emblem. In 1940 the glass portion could be had with no horizontal grooves (the plain version). California car dealer Earle C. Anthony persuaded Packard to produce a version without the forward thrusting arms and wheel (the California version). (The Gallery, Cars, Trucks, Buses, John Collier)
Greyhound: 1938
... ( Yellow Coach history ). You can read the entire 1937 patent and see additional drawings here. (click to ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 08/28/2012 - 1:40pm -

Washington, D.C., circa 1938. "Greyhound bus." Harris & Ewing Collection glass negative. View full size. Compare and contrast with this Greyhound. Amazing!I agree with Anonymous DC Tipster, this is indeed a really cool bus! This pic went straight to my desktop! Awesome!That's got so much style, I wouldn't mind getting run over by it! Art Deco DesignI'd wager a guess that Raymond Loewy was responsible for this design. Very hip! A restored example today would go for big money at one of the big name auctions. The De Sade Deco Design TeamSeems like that "bumper" was meant to slice and dice anything or anyone it hit! Or, are those raised ridges rubber? Also the sharp looking potentially piercing spear points protruding from each side ... what? They don't appear to be glass (turn signal lights)? Pretty sharp to be door stops. Lots of linear stuff. Art deco stripes, all over, going on. Yellow CoachLooks like a Yellow Coach 719, a state of the art bus that was sort of a roadgoing equivalent of the DC-3 airliner, in the sense that it represented the advanced engineering that was coming into being in the pre-war era, revolutionizing travel in the US. Pretty cool styling too. The art of coolThat is one cool bus! Riding in StyleThey must have hired an industrial designer to produce this streamlined art deco gem. Good looks aside, I wonder if the stripes and the "fins" on the bumper proved to be a maintenance nightmare. Service long goneBack in the late 1950's, my mother and I rode a Greyhound from Eugene to Salem, Oregon. I was very small, but I remember there was a "hostess" on board. She wore a uniform similar to airline attendents (stewardess) at that time. She served small sandwiches and drinks. I became ill and she helped my mom clean me up and brought some soda water. I've often wondered how long they provided this service and why it was stopped. Does anyone else remember these ladies? Go By Super-CoachNot only revolutionary in style, this coach introduced innovative features that still form the basic design of modern buses: rear engine, elevated seating platform and baggage storage below. Hopefully Dave has a side view waiting in the wings. Washington Post, Aug 16, 1936 Greyhound's New Super-Coach Is Latest Thing in Bus Comfort New Model Represents Revolutionary Advance in Design for Vehicles for Long-Distance Travel. One of the revolutionary new Greyhound super coaches - radically different from any motor bus ever built - will arrive in Washington Saturday at the conclusion of a five-day tour from Cincinnati. ... Over 300 of the new streamlined super-coaches are making their first appearance in Greyhound service throughout the Nation this summer. Used exclusively by the the Greyhound system, the super-coachh is radically different from all other coaches on American highways in both construction and appointments. The engine has been placed in the rear for more power and smoother operation, also to avoid noise, vibration and fumes. Passengers ride high enough to look over passing traffic, and baggage travels in locked, weather-proof compartments below the floor, instead of over passengers' heads. More passengers are carried, yet the super-coach, of rugged aluminum alloy construction, weights two tons less than older equipment. Deeply cushioned chairs recline at four different angles, and more leg room between the seats has been provided. Frosted glass tubes shed soft, diffused light at night. 1938 Advertisement Bygone eraEven their buses look cool! Frosted Glass Tubes"Frosted glass tubes shed soft, diffused light at night." Fluorescents, perhaps? That would be another state-of-the-art feature of this vehicle. Apparently they first went on the market in a big way this very year, if you can believe Wikipedia. Of course, there's nothing to stop incandescent bulbs from being configured as frosted glass tubes, either. Dwight E. Austin, DesignerThe Yellow Coach model 719 was designed by engineer Dwight Austin (Yellow Coach history). You can read the entire 1937 patent and see additional drawings here. (click to enlarge) Greyhound 743The 743 model had the headlights slightly lower than the 719 (thus the headlight surround in the cast front end was not as high), the horizontal bars over the air intakes (beside the destination sign) rather than vertical. The door sheet metal extended below the front step on the 743, no doubt to keep water out. The rear end was quite different with 2 windows instead of 3, and a different pattern in the cast aluminum ventilation openings in the motor doors. (The Gallery, Cars, Trucks, Buses, D.C., Harris + Ewing)
West Street Story: 1912
... steamboats appear to be Fall River Line steamers. Up until 1937, the night boats of the Fall River Line were the preferred way to travel ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 07/18/2012 - 7:01pm -

New York circa 1912. "West Street north from the Battery." An amazing view of the Hudson River piers from the foot of Manhattan centered by the West Street Building, which sustained grave damage a decade ago when the south tower of the World Trade Center collapsed; to east is the massive Hudson Terminal, and faintly visible through the haze is the Metropolitan Life tower. Note the ant-like profusion of horse wagons along West Street. This 8x10 glass negative was exposed from the Whitehall Building annex just south of today's Battery Park City and World Financial Center. The view up West Street and 11th Avenue is continued here at the Chelsea Piers. Detroit Publishing Co. View full size. Best of the BestThis photo will become my "forever" all time favorite. It evokes history at so many levels. Amazingly, the two bridges that cross West Street are in extreme close proximity to those that connected the World Trade Center to The World Financial Center at Battery Park City. Actually the northern one looks like it is in exactly the same place! All I can do is stare and marvel at this gem that we are lucky enough to view. Thanks Dave/Shorpy West Street BuildingIt is absolutely incredible to see the West Street Building standing in so isolated a position - yet it is barely a quarter-mile away from Broadway! Such were the contours of real estate values in Lower Manhattan a century ago. The West Street Building (1906-1907) was designed by Cass Gilbert; as his first "Gothic" skyscraper, it became the model for his more famous Woolworth Building of 1911-1913. It is believed that Frank W. Woolworth chose Gilbert as his architect largely because he liked what he saw on West Street. !!Anazing. [Jawohl. - Dave] Whitehall StreetA few personal things come to mind when I read that The Whitehall Building was where this magnificent 1912 photo was taken. First, 39 Whitehall Street, was the building where I, and probably a million others were inducted into the US Army. The date I was there, October 8, 1956 and another momentous event was happening at the World Series in Yankee Stadium, Don Larsen pitched a perfect game. Fast forward to 1995 and my wife and I are at the Whitehall Building looking at the Whitehall Club as a venue for my youngest daughter's wedding. The club occupied the entire top floor of the building with unobstructed views in all 4 directions. The views of the city, the Hudson River and the Statue of Liberty were just amazing. We didn't use that setting, because on a Saturday night, that part of town is usually deserted. A REAL SeaportThis is wonderful evidence that, indeed, NY was once a great seaport. Look at all the piers with so much activity! Fall River Line Steamers?The two large steamboats appear to be Fall River Line steamers. Up until 1937, the night boats of the Fall River Line were the preferred way to travel between NYC and Boston. A "boat train" met the boat in Fall River, MA early each morning. Can anyone identify these steamboats? The far one seems to me to be the "Commonwealth". (The Gallery, Boats & Bridges, DPC, NYC)
As Advertised: 1939
... of anti-dandruff shampoos. Going Viral From a 1937 TIME magazine article: “The 541 cigar stores of United Cigar-Whelan ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 05/15/2019 - 8:30pm -

Spring 1939. "Drugstore window in Washington, D.C." Medium format acetate negative by David Moffat Myers for the Farm Security Administration. View full size. Fingers of FearFrom the Amazon description of the book in the display window: Ruined in the stock market crash of 1929, Selden Seaforth is on the verge of homelessness and starvation when he gets a lucky break: an old school friend, Ormond Ormes, hires him to catalogue the collection of rare books in the library at the mansion of Ormesby. The mansion has a reputation for being haunted by ghosts, but Seaforth quickly finds out that ghosts are the least of his worries: the house is also inhabited by a bizarre family of madwomen, not to mention possibly vampires, werewolves, and the undead ... [J.U. Nicolson was evidently big on alliteration. - Dave] Inflation!I love these old store photos. Shows you how much inflation we have really had. National brandsI'm not quite 70 but I recognize two products in the window. They're both at left: Lavoris, which I remember as the palatable mouthwash, as opposed to the intensely medicinal Listerine. The other is Castoria, which I vaguely recall, only from TV commercials, as Fletcher's Castoria. Vitamin GWe call it riboflavin these days. Not so cheapThe bottle of vitamins at $1.49 would go for almost $26 today, and $18 for the 98 cent pan. As advertised -- Don't take our word for itOf course everyone will remark on the prices, but I notice there's not a single brand name in the whole store window (not the signs in the window, the window itself) that I recognize and I'm 70, so it's not like they are before my time. I do like how they have posted the newspaper ad in the window along with the items advertised so that you can know you are getting the advertised price. I give those 98-cent drugstore frypans about a week to last. Now if I could just figure out what a "public telephone" was -- Try to find oneA public telephone, that is. What the world needs... is a good five-cent cigar at 25 for 69 cents! Related to United Cigars - and Marvel Comics!Interesting history of Whelan Drugs: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Cigar_Stores RelativityAccording to one obscure chart I found, the average annual salary for a public school teacher (for example) in Washington DC in 1939 was $2,350. [Indeed. Relative to 1939, the number of hours (or minutes) the average person has to work in 2019 to buy something like a toothbrush or a whisk broom is so inconsequential, no store would bother advertising them, much less create a window display. - Dave] Pipe toolsThose three-part items (reamer, tamper, pick) for 10¢ or 25¢, lower right, between what I take to be zippered pipe/tobacco pouches for a buck. Box of 25 cigars for 69¢At that price, I’d resume smoking. Also, I’ll take one of those whisk brooms for a dime, please. A drugstore!!I've noticed Shorpy has not featured drugstore photos recently, so I was delighted to see this one. Thanks! Also, I wonder when "films" lost the "s"? I presume the word refers to the item you put into a camera and took back to have developed. Another label recognizedI also recognize the Fitch's Shampoo. That line of products was a staple in the barber shop when I was a kid. Fred Fitch also developed one of the first types of anti-dandruff shampoos. Going Viral From a 1937 TIME magazine article: “The 541 cigar stores of United Cigar-Whelan Stores Corp., which dot the country like an attack of measles, have long been filled to bursting with Mickey Mouse watches, G-Man automatics, shoe trees ... ” Whelan's Drugs Such a DealEven adjusted for inflation those whisk brooms are a deal at $1.84 in today's dollars. Cheapest whisk brooms I could find on Amazon cost $4.32. [$2.83 at Walmart. - Dave] First EditionsAt least four of the books shown are still in print. I think I have a couple in my library from roughly the date of this photo. (The Gallery, D.C., David Myers, Stores & Markets)
Beer Boulevard: 1938
... unionizing. The decision was one of two in early spring 1937 that signaled President Roosevelt (and a switch by Justice Owen Roberts) ... blast furnace. Ford country L-R: 1931 model A Ford; 1937 V8 rear view; Ford signs and lamps. The only tractor available in 1938 was ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 11/26/2017 - 12:49pm -

July 1938. "Main street (Franklin Avenue) in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania." Which you don't even have to cross if you're in the mood for a Duquesne. (If you're thirsty for an Iron City or Union Beer, you might have to dodge some traffic.) Photo by Arthur Rothstein for the Farm Security Administration. View full size. Doo-KaneRecently heard a local newscaster in Erie Pa say "Doo Qwes Nee" There goes the neighborhoodThis is a case of the entire neighborhood disappearing over time. The Joseph Building seen at the end of the street still exists as a shell on the Google Street View images, but the White Castle "clone" next to it and nearly every other structure in this picture is long gone, buried under a highway project. Those were the daysWhen this photo was taken, Aliquippa was home to a Jones & Laughlin steel plant. It closed -- I think -- in the late 1970s. In the early 2000s, I used to ride the 16A Aliquippa bus into Pittsburgh. That's probably an early version of the 16A in the old photo. ConstitutionalThe year before this photo was taken, the U.S. Supreme Court decided in National Labor Relations Board v. Jones & Laughlin Steel Co. that the Wagner Act (formally the National Labor Relations Act) was constitutional. The case arose from the Aliquippa steel mill's termination of workers for unionizing. The decision was one of two in early spring 1937 that signaled President Roosevelt (and a switch by Justice Owen Roberts) had tipped the Court's balance toward generally upholding New Deal measures. The picture shows the "Wye" area of Aliquippa, where three major streets came together near the entrance to the tunnel serving as the vehicular entrance to the J&L mill. The name of the roadway whose overpass design devastated the intersection and surrounding areas (with help from the mill's ultimate demise) is Constitution Boulevard. J&L MillBoth of my grandfathers worked in the J&L Aliquippa Works, and my father worked there part-time while in college. My father took me to the mill once during a visit to Aliquippa when I was a boy and we happened to be there during a shift change. I have a vivid memory of what seemed to be hundreds of men entering and leaving the mill at the same time. Later that night, while trying to fall asleep in a guest bed at my grandparents' house, I saw the sky glow orange every so often in the direction of the mill, due to the round-the-clock operation of the open blast furnace. Ford countryL-R: 1931 model A Ford; 1937 V8 rear view; Ford signs and lamps. The only tractor available in 1938 was the English imported Fordson model N. This would change in 1939 with the introduction of the Ford 9N tractor featuring the Ferguson 3 point hitch system forever changing farming for the better. Ah, Duquesne!"Best beer in town!" I mean, you can't lie on a billboard, right? I saw J&L close.During 1981-84 I lived in Ambridge, directly across the river from J&L and witnessed it's final death throes. In 1981 the sky was yellow from the mill's output. By 1984 the sky was blue, J&L shuttered, and Aliquippa was becoming a ghost town. Ambridge is often seen on Shorpy, but I wish I had a photo of the row house we rented while in grad school. At one point in it's long history is was a house of ill repute and the entire interior had been painted pink. The closing of the mill was hard for everyone in the community. Odd topsWhat are the domes on top of the light poles? Victoria CoupeThe Victoria Coupe facing away from us, on the right side of the photo, is a 1934 or 1935 Buick - probably a Series 60, Model 68. (The Gallery, Arthur Rothstein, Cars, Trucks, Buses, Small Towns)
Combat Fighters: 1941
... Dell's The Comics, issue No. 1, with a cover date of March 1937. In those days, comic books were usually collections of previously printed ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 09/10/2013 - 12:35pm -

September 1941. "Millworkers' children. Holyoke, Massachusetts." The planes look like fun, but we'll take that comic book. Photo by John Collier. View full size. In the 40's and 50'sI would assume model airplanes and gliders were the largest consumers of balsa wood. Balsa Wood Airplanes!I remember these well. They were sold in the same "candy store" where comics and baseball cards (with free gum) were sold. They came in a slim plastic wrapper; the parts (there were only a few) fitted together in pre-cut slots. It was almost impossible to break them; their feather weight parts glided beautifully for really long distances if the breezes were right.... I would play with these for hours; my friends and I would stage our own dogfights, trying to knock the other guys planes out of the air.... Oh, if kids today only had these toys! Aircraft Weight and BalanceWhen I was a kid in the 50s I lived on a cul-de-sac with very little traffic. I would spend hours hand launching these. I was constantly tweaking the fore and aft position of the wing to get the balance just right. When it was set correctly it would yield a long glide and smooth landing instead of a series of stalls with the inevitable nose dive into the ground. Vertical StabilizerUh oh. Looks like he fitted the vertical stabilizer backwards when assembling his Combat Fighter. Rookie mistake; easily fixed. Been there, done that. Balsa PlanesI remember paying ten cents apiece for these as a child in the 60s. The really fancy ones had a rubber band powered propeller and set you back a quarter. If you fooled around with wing placement and angle, you could do tricks like loop the loop. Thanks for jogging my memory of simple fun! MaybeThe kid with the reversed vertical stabilizer on his Combat Fighter grew up to design the Mooney. Straight Up!Mountainrev, maybe that kid with the backwards vertical stabilizer is the fellow who grew up to design the beautiful Mooney aircraft. My dad had a Mark 21 (photo attached) and it had a similar vertical-front stabilizer! He bought it in 1962 and someone in Texas is still flying it. Guillow's Balsa GlidersI played with these very same gliders in 1941. They were made by the Paul K. Guillow company which exists to this day. This page shows a drawing of this glider listed as 2 cent glider 1941. I keep a drawer full of the current model to hand out to random little kid visitors. Check out the Tie Clip!I loved the balsa wood planes, too, but I am more interested in the middle boy's tie clip! I wonder if he borrowed it from his Dad. Great picture! RudderA balsa model flies better with the vertical stabilizer in backwards. I was going to mention the Mooney, but somebody has already done it. Mooney had a designer who started with balsa models. The Comics Comic BookHere's the cover of the comic book: Dell's The Comics, issue No. 1, with a cover date of March 1937. In those days, comic books were usually collections of previously printed newspaper comics. $450KDell's "The Comics" Issue 1 in mint condition is worth nearly $450,000. One could buy a lot of balsa wood airplanes for that money--maybe even a real one. MemoriesBuilding Balsa Wood airplanes. I'm not talking about sliding wings into precut slots, this is about assembling struts and gluing them together. The adhesive was referred to as dope and it was not a misnomer, the numbing odor was addictive. $450K ?Every source I Googled was more like $2000-$3000 in Mint condition. http://comicbookrealm.com/series/8642/0/the-comics The REALLY Fancy Gliders... had wings that folded back on pivots, so that the glider could be launched straight up with a rubber catapult (you pulled it back by the tips of the folded wings). At the top of the trajectory the wings would snap out (via rubber bands) and the glide would start. (The Gallery, Aviation, John Collier, Kids, WW2)
Camera Craft: 1938
... by Camera Craft Publishing Company in San Francisco in 1937. A September 1981 article in Popular Photography noted that Champlin ... unchanged after almost 80 years! Popular Photography 1937-2017 Camera Craft may still be publishing but Popular Photography ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 04/07/2017 - 9:06am -

April 1, 1938. San Francisco. "Camera Craft store, 425 Bush Street. Mr. E.R. Young." 8x10 inch acetate negative by Moulin Studios. View full size. Elementary PhotographyThoroughly Stimulating, Expertly Written. For the Student, the Club Member, and the Amateur Photographer. By C.B. Neblette, Frederick W. Brehm, and Everett L. Priest (Macmillan, 1936). Under glass on the left, and in the middle bookshelf on the right, under the heading Latest Photographic Publications. A professional and hobbyist dreamThis must be the most exciting camera store I have seen. So many periodicals. Looks like a hobby I would totally take up. Photography today means a smartphone app and a YouTube "how-to" video. Not nearly as interesting at all. Looks familiarThis looks pretty much identical to any of the many Embarcadero photo stores I recall seeing during my visits there. But no doubt lacking the ridiculous markups and high-pressure salesmen of the more recent establishments. Champlin On Fine GrainBy Harry Champlin, published by Camera Craft Publishing Company in San Francisco in 1937. A September 1981 article in Popular Photography noted that Champlin “took a dim view” of the future of 35mm film since it was too small for “the exacting demands of commercial photography and newspaper work.” He predicted 70mm as the new standard. A Dearth of CamerasFor a camera store I certainly don't see many. [Camera Craft was a publishing company. -Dave] Brand NewThat looks like my Solar brand enlarger head behind the Popular Photography mag. Camera stores!Isn't it odd that the photo hobby has changed so much? In my area, I would visit Penn Camera, Ritz Camera, and Industrial Photo every week. Didn't need anything. Just hanging out with my friends who worked there and messing around. Days gone by. I used to love hanging around typewriter and watch repair shops, too. Chatting with folks with specialized, exact knowledge and geeking out. Those days were such fun. Where's the 'Phone?It's at the rear of the store, attached to a set of shelves. It appears to be a Western Electric Model 211 Spacesaver, and in this store that really is a plus. When I was 12 my father gave me an Australian Kodak contact print set to make my own photos. It included a safe light, developing tank, trays, paper and chemicals to learn photo processing and printing. I later belonged to a camera club at school, and as an adult acquired an enlarger. I made my own prints in B&W for many years, but never graduated to colour. The enlarger resides in my attic since I went digital. I can now scan my old B&W negatives, and process them on my computer without all the liquids, fumes, etc. But I do miss the experience of visiting the camera store to stock up on supplies. Camera Craft Still being published. Or rather being published again. http://cameracraft.online/ Clamp lightsStill unchanged after almost 80 years! Popular Photography 1937-2017Camera Craft may still be publishing but Popular Photography (bottom of the magazine rack) just shut down. The Kodak LetterCurious about the "Kodak Letter" poster partly seen on the upper right, I found it was a 1918 magazine ad encouraging people to send photos to their soldiers "over there" in WWI. So it was already a vintage poster (and camera) in 1938. [Good work. I was wondering about that thing that looks like an antique cable modem! - Dave] Camera in "The Kodak Letter" adThe camera in the "Kodak Letter" poster from 1918 probably is this one. It does look a bit like a cable modem when folded! I recall my granddad (who was just a bit too young for WW I) had something like this when I was small. It was fascinating. [However, many Kodak folding cameras of the period looked like this when closed. -tterrace] Interesting location.The location of this business would later become the location of KFRC, the legendary San Francisco radio station of the 60's and 70's. (The Gallery, San Francisco, Stores & Markets)
Gasoline Allée: 1939
... one located about 30 miles away at Rohwer, Arkansas. A 1937 Plymouth is in front of the gas pumps and what looks like a 1937 Chevrolet is down the street. Photos of similar cars are below. All ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 12/17/2012 - 1:18am -

January 1939. "Main Street in Jerome, Arkansas." As well as a cozy, woodsy gas station. Medium-format nitrate negative by Russell Lee. View full size. CompactionWith cars driving over the roots and the occasional petroleum spill, I wonder how long the gas station trees lasted. Wait, is that George Raft emerging from the general store? Grove's Chill TonicGrove's Tasteless Chill Tonic--a quinine mixture suspended in a supposedly-tasteless syrup. No SmokingProbably shouldn't be lighting up that pipe by the gas pumps. Indiana JonesHas an evil twin who appears to be lighting up awfully close to the foreground gas pump. Health & SafetyLooks like a guy is lighting up beside the pumps. Could be wrong, but also looks like a makeshift fire drum sitting on ground behind him. Cold Medicine of the BeastThe tree at right foreground appear (edit: appears) to have a sign for 666 cold medicine nailed to it. The remedy, in liquid and tablet form, is still produced today by its original manufacturer, the Monticello Drug Company of Jacksonville, Florida. [The sign was also seen here. - tterrace] Thank you. I now note another 666 sign on the side of the building just to the right of the tree. Jerome GrowsJerome, Arkansas became a busy place during WWII when a Japaneese American internment camp was built which later became a camp for German POWs. At one point during WWII it was the fifth largest city in Arkansas. The population in 2000 was only 46 people. The PBS documentary "Time of Fear" is an account of this camp and one located about 30 miles away at Rohwer, Arkansas. A 1937 Plymouth is in front of the gas pumps and what looks like a 1937 Chevrolet is down the street. Photos of similar cars are below. All the houses appear to be raised off the ground for when the area floods. Gas PumpsI'm curious. Did those antique pumps use underground tanks like modern pumps? Those large trees growing next to the pumps would have large root systems. Those Tank Fill PipesI'm quite certain those capped risers you see protruding from the ground just inside the sidewalk line are for the underground tanks. 37 PlymouthWas the first car I remember my parents having, around 1960ish - age 2, along with a 56 Chevy P/U. The Plymouth was hard to start, and Mom would often get frustrated (angry?). It apparently had very loose steering also. I thought the faster you moved the wheel back and forth, the faster the car went. Reality was actually just the opposite, the faster you drove, the more you had to wiggle the steering wheel to keep the car on the road. (The Gallery, Cars, Trucks, Buses, Russell Lee, Small Towns)
Tipping Point: 1922
... listed as builder on 36 building permits between 1921 and 1937. Many of those are small one and two story buildings, only a few are for ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 03/05/2014 - 9:41am -

November 1922. Washington, D.C. "Auto wreck." Who'll be first to pinpoint the intersection? National Photo Company glass negative. View full size. S It IsI have access to a database of DC building permits. All signs point to 1631 S Street NW. The photo of the reinforced concrete frame is showing the side elevation on 17th Street. Fred H. Gore is listed as builder on 36 building permits between 1921 and 1937. Many of those are small one and two story buildings, only a few are for high rise concrete frame buildings. The photo date of November 1922 provided by Shorpy narrows it further. Gore had 3 permits issued prior to November 1922 for a reinforced concrete apartment building: 1925 16th Street NW (permit issued 2/23/22), 1614 17th Street NW (7/1/22), and 1631 S Street NW (8/30/22). All would have been issued with enough time to complete the amount of construction shown in the photo. 1925 16th can be eliminated because it's a midblock building but the photo was taken from the yard of a corner building, which isn't possible for a midblock building like 1925 16th St. 1614 17th Street NW can be eliminated because, although it's near a corner, it's between 2 Victorian buildings that would have appeared in the photo. 1631 S Street NW wins by process of elimination. It's across from a rowhouse at the southwest corner of 17th and S streets. In the photo, the land to the left (north) is vacant and the building to the north of 1631 S Street is an art deco apartment built in 1940, so that matches. If you look closely at the ground floor of the concrete frame on the right, you can see that they've begun to lay up the veneer brick and set in the stone window frame for a double window with a mullion between. This detail matches the window style of 1631 S Street NW. But then again, it also matches the detailing on 1614 17th St; both buildings are the same style and within 3 blocks of each other on 17th. The ShelburneThe Shelburne apartments are at the northeast corner of 17th and   Q   S Streets NW. Completed in 1923. [1631 S Street. Also known, over the years, as the Shelbourne. - Dave] Oops, yes my bad: S street. For years, 17th and Q was where we went drinking. View Larger Map Camera vs. tipped carI count 15 people staring directly at the camera, including the five kids in the front row of the pack in the lower left. In the competition for the crowd’s attention, the camera pulls away a goodly number from the chief attraction: the tipped car in the road. These people have no idea that in 92 years, most members of the crowd would be holding up palm-sized rectangles, photographing each other, themselves, the car, then magically sending these images off into the ethereal data warehouse of words and pictures to be shared by millions of strangers. 14th and G StAcross the way the address appears as 1410 G Street. [That's contractor Fred Gore's business address. Next guess? - Dave] Fred H. GoreOn page 28 of the June 24, 1922 issue of American Contractor, under "Big Project Construction News": Contracts Awarded: Project: Apt. Bldg. Valuation: $150,000 Location: Washington, D.C. General Contract to: Fred H. Gore, 1410 G St, N.W. -- but that's the address of the builder, not the photo location. From what I found, I think it's17th and S Streets NW Edit: More info here: Contracts Awarded Apt Bldg 64 fam $150,000 8 sty & bas 60x80 17th & S sts NW Archt Frank Russell White 1410 G St NW Owner AJ Howar 1111 F St NW Brk Gen contr & carp let to Fred H Gore 1410 G St NW Gen contr taking bids on sep contrs From the 6/24/22 edition of The American Contractor, bottom of page 60. http://books.google.com/books?id=Z_tYAAAAYAAJ&pg=RA12-PA60&img=1&zoom=3&... Tough OneIt looks like it might be Constitution Avenue near the Mall, but it could be McPherson Square. Don't know the addressBut I do know that if I was in business back then, I'd be in the hat business. Possible project locationFrom The American Contractor, Vol 43, 1922: Contracts awarded Apt House (48 apts.): $100,000. 17th & Q sts., N.W. Archt Frank Russel White, 1410 G st N.W. , Owner C.F. Foley & F.R. White, 1410 G st N.W., Brk & t.c. Gen contr. let to Fred H. Gore, 1410 G st N.W., Gen. contr. taking bids on sep. contrs, All involved had offices together ,how convenient. Car IDCar in middle with dogbone shaped rear window frame (which matches emblem) is a Chandler. Before safety glass, seat belts and air bags-Accidents which now would be considered fender-benders were frequently lethal, especially in cases involving ejection from the vehicle. With their high centers of gravity, cars of the early 1920s seem so vulnerable to tipping over. American Rolls , ( Royce ) I believe it is a Locomobile Model 48 touring car .. Probably fairly new at the time , a 1920 ?? , Hard to say as they did not change much but the weather protection seems new and the paint is very shiny ( even though it had been raining ... ) Here is some info off the webs... Locomobile was known for building some of the finest automobiles, and was considered to be the American Rolls-Royce. In 1911, the renowned 525 cubic-inch, T-head, six-cylinder Model 48 was introduced. It would remain in production until 1924. A four-speed transmission was used and the car could cruise at 55 mph on the occasionally encountered truly good road. Octagonal shapes, such as the lamps and instruments, were a common theme for Locomobile and helped to differentiate it from other cars English BuiltFrederick Henry Gore was born in Blean, Kent, England on August 30th 1882 the son of Robert and Sarah H. On August 22nd 1903, he arrived at Ellis Island and on November 24th 1909 he married Ida C Price b July 1888 in Samuel Miller Township, Virginia. They had 3 children Hilton (1913-2003), Mary A (1925-?), and Frederick Jnr (1928-?). Frederick Snr died on November 23rd 1930, and Ida died in August 1973. Whats going on with the site?There havent been any updates in months. anyone know why or whats going on? I love this site and would hate to see it go dormant. [Something is wrong on your end; several photo are added each day, more than 500 since this one. -tterrace] (The Gallery, Cars, Trucks, Buses, D.C., Natl Photo)
Dream Kitchen: 1936
... during the Great Depression. It was renamed “Norvelt" in 1937 in honor of First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and her interest in the project." ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 07/25/2012 - 10:34am -

February 1936. "Kitchen in Westmoreland Homesteads. Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania." Westmoreland Homesteads, built by the federal government as part of the National Industrial Recovery Act during the Great Depression, was a model community that housed the families of laid-off coal miners. 35mm nitrate negative by Carl Mydans for the Resettlement Administration. View full size. The mirrorI think the mirror is there so the housewife can watch the kids while she does the dishes. Note how it's tilted down towards the floor. Kitchen tableInteresting how in those older kitchens, counter space was not considered a necessity. The kitchen table was usually the main work area. Checkerboard FloorMy dream kitchen will have this floor. Rear view mirrormaybe so the Hubby can't sneak up on her and scare her? Government designedI would like to be able to hear the comments of the housewives in this model community when they found themselves on their hands and knees under the kitchen sink trying to get to the back of the cupboard to the left. Also the design committee managed to block the left most drawer with the sink as well. Oh well, one less drawer pull needed. Norvelt Historic MarkerIt seems that the "Westmoreland Homesteads" is still quite alive and well, living under a different name: According to the roadside historic marker: "Originally called "Westmoreland Homesteads", Norvelt was established April 13, 1934, by the federal government as part of a New Deal homestead project. With 250 homes, Norvelt provided housing, work, and a community environment to unemployed workers and their families during the Great Depression. It was renamed “Norvelt" in 1937 in honor of First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and her interest in the project." The community has a sizable website, including photos, at: http://www.norvelt.org/Norvelt/Home.html Re: Rear view mirrorPerhaps it's for when the sink backs up. Mirror theoriesIn my opinion, the mirror was for a quick hair-check before leaving home for any reason. Everyone I knew used their back kitchen door to enter and exit and people were conscientious about being presentable. Most also had a tin comb holder hanging nearby, usually painted light green or ivory, containing a few combs. One would wet the comb with tap water and comb their hair before leaving home. I know it is not considered acceptably sanitary these days, but believe me, it was very common as most homes were lucky to have even one indoor bathroom. Even face washing was acceptable in the kitchen in those days. Maybe the Mirror's for DadThe first thing I thought of when I saw the mirror was "shaving". Growing up I knew older men who shaved in the kitchen. The mirror is right by the sink and it made sense to me. (The Gallery, Carl Mydans, Kids, Kitchens etc.)
Acme Market: 1948
... 1940 Plymouth, 1946 Chevrolet Fleetline, 1948 Ford, 1937 Ford. Actually this building looks more like it Note the windows ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 11/18/2013 - 10:37am -

Maryland circa 1948. "Acme Market. Four Corners -- Woodmoor Shopping Center, Colesville Pike and Old Bladensburg Road. Schreier & Patterson, architects." Safety negative by Theodor Horydczak. View full size. It's still thereAlthough remodeled on the front and extended, it's still there, at Colesville Road and University Blvd West, in Silver Spring. The key is the brick pattern of every third course recessed, and the cornice along the top. View Larger Map Family SedansFrom left to right the cars are: 1940 Chevrolet, 1948 Pontiac, 1940 Plymouth, 1946 Chevrolet Fleetline, 1948 Ford, 1937 Ford. Actually this building looks more like itNote the windows and door placement: View Larger Map The 1940 PlymouthHas had a much harder life in its eight years than its Chevrolet contemporary on the far left, still wearing shiny paint and looking in pristine condition. The Plymy by contrast has lost its hubcaps, probably on both sides, had its trunk lid and fender dented, rust starting to show through, maybe left rear window broken. The owner may live in the sticks seeing all the mud on it. Sweeter Than a BeaterIt is interesting to compare the 40 Chevy to the 40 Plymouth. Both are the same age, yet the Chevy has been lovingly cared for, while the poor old Mayflower has been beaten to within an inch of its life. Filthy, hubcaps missing, repainted with a brush or a Flit sprayer. Just sad to look at. On second thoughtJ.W. Wright, I think you're right. Supplier to Wile E. CoyoteThe Acme is still around. But: while once ubiquitous in at least the NJ-PA area, the Acme chain is now in decline. In my mindI can smell this place. A welcoming, comforting, mixed-food smell that no modern store has. Maybe Even NewerThe Plymouth, I believe, may be a '42, since it looks very similar to the '42 Dodge that appeared in the gas station photos a few days ago. The '40 Plymouth had vertical tail lights, as did the '41. The rear lights on the car pictured first appeared in 1942 and remained pretty much the same up to the introduction of the restyled cars in mid 1949. That would mean the owner really didn't waste much time beating the heck out of it! I AgreeI agree with oldcarguy and I stand corrected. The Plymouth is a '42, the fenders on the 1940 had stamped in ribs and the bumpers were slimmer. Acme MarketWhere Wile E. Coyote did his shopping for some of those specialty items - must have been "unadvertised specials". More WoodmoorRight here. Active Acme'sMaybe the chain is not as widespread as before, but there are two within my area, one as a super-store with all the vitality of any GIANT or SAFEWAY. Excellent pricing as well. (The Gallery, Cars, Trucks, Buses, D.C., Stores & Markets, Theodor Horydczak)
Christmas in July: 1915
... Some of them date from their first Christmas together, in 1937. If I take some of their photographs and a magnifying glass, I can spot a ... a record of basically all the houses they lived in from 1937-1973 when they moved the last time. Bells, birds, little cabins, ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 10/11/2013 - 11:01am -

"Raymond Dickey. Christmas 1915." View full size. Nat'l Photo glass negative. OrnamentsI have a box of Christmas ornaments that belonged to my grandparents, maybe 50 years old. They're pretty well preserved, with nary a sound-chip to be had. My grandfather's method of applying tinsel was to take a fistful and hurl it at a spot on the tree. It's interesting to see how the designs of ornaments have changed to reflect what people consider festive. I see an ear of corn, and a scary disembodied head (oer the little sailor boy's shoulder). I really like those little clip-on birds. And really, that's got to be a HUGE tree for them to sit underneath it like that. [Below, the whole thing. - Dave] IciclesGood ol' lead tinsel. In our house, it was required to be applied by us children--one. strand. at. a. time. or. else. My brother and I enjoyed gathering the imperfect and leftover pieces into near-lethal balls to throw at each other. My grandparentshad the clip-on birds on their tree and I loved playing with them as a kid! Is that really an ear of corn or a German type pickle ornament? 1910 CensusWith a quick scan of the 1910 census, I found a Raymond Dickey that lived on Otis Place in Washington D.C. He's listed as a lawyer, which by the look of him, I could certainly believe. If my calculations are right, he should be about 37 in the picture. His wife, Rose, would be 36. The oldest son would be 12, and the daughter would be 9. The youngest would be below 5 since he isn't on the 1910 census. They must have been pretty well-to-do since the census lists them having two servants as well. Ornament survivalI'm astonished. Those could be the ornaments on our tree in the 1950s. I knew we had some really old ones from my mother's family, including a couple that still had wax drippings on them, but practically all our ornaments were like this; there's at least one exact duplicate insofar as I can tell in black and white. I had no idea they were that old, or that those traditional designs were kept in production so long. Need a Little ChristmasLike the song from "Mame" goes, "We need a little Christmas" on a currently hot and steamy NYC afternoon. The size of that tree is enormous...they were probably decorating it since Thanksgiving. I'm also with tterrace that the 30s and 50s ornaments looked identical: forever old, just as fragile. Old OrnamentsI too have a handful of old ornaments in my possession. They belonged to my mother's parents, who are gone now. Some of them date from their first Christmas together, in 1937. If I take some of their photographs and a magnifying glass, I can spot a few of them on their tree at the time. Luckily my grandfather had some odd habits such as photographing the interiors of every house he owned (once they'd set up) and I have a record of basically all the houses they lived in from 1937-1973 when they moved the last time. Bells, birds, little cabins, puppies, and angels. Wonderful. Jeepers CreepersWhere'd they get those peepers? Looks like the retoucher was a little over-zealous... I've seen other photos like this, with the pupil of the eye provided with a dot of pencil lead. [There's no retouching here. And pencil lead applied to a negative would result in a white pupil. - Dave] Lil' Orphan AnnieBut pencil lead to a print... or scraping a negative none too gingerly... [Would look a uniform black, not a gradation of grays, and jagged at the edges (these are all scanned from the original glass negatives -- there are no prints). Plus their eyes look perfectly normal for an indoor shot at night. - Dave] Tin Man OrnamentIs that a Tin Man ornament above the ear of the small boy in the sailor suit? The Wizard of Oz was published in 1900. I love this site. Thanks Dave. (The Gallery, Christmas, Natl Photo, The Dickeys)
Indiana Joneses: 1904
... trust purchased the Harrison house at 1230 N. Delaware in 1937, to use as a "female dormitory" for conservatory students. The ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 08/10/2012 - 12:12am -

Indianapolis, Indiana, circa 1904. "North Delaware Street." A block east of our previous Indy view, this leafy residential street is furnished with a mailbox and mounting blocks as well as hitching posts; one block bears the house number 656. Detroit Publishing Company, 8x10 inch glass transparency. View full size. Where did the trees go?View Larger Map PainfulWhile it is always interesting to see modern Google street views of Shorpy sites it's invariably distressing to see how much we have lost. This is one of the more dramatic contrasts I've seen. The original image is absolutely idyllic. I'd live there in a heartbeat. The modern view is hideously sterile. It's really sad. No cares!I bet the man working with the broom thought he had a job for life! Indianapolis renumberingThe Street View shown is probably not of the same site as the 1904 photo. Indianapolis renumbered the homes and buildings on its downtown streets in 1911. Before then, the numbering scheme was not based on blocks from center, and could be a little difficult to decipher. Arthur Jordan Conservatory of MusicI should be working instead of researching this, but there is a LOT of material available online for this area. The house with the mounting block with the number 656 seems to have been built by George D. Emery, a wealthy lumber baron, and later sold to Frederick M. Ayres, founder of a large department store. In 1928, this property and the one in the left foreground at 1116 N. Delaware were purchased by philanthropist Arthur Jordan and became the Arthur Jordan Conservatory of Music. Jordan died in 1934, but his trust purchased the Harrison house at 1230 N. Delaware in 1937, to use as a "female dormitory" for conservatory students. The conservatory moved to Butler University in 1951 (now Jordan College), and the Jordan trustees opened the Delaware Street property to the public as the Harrison Presidential house. More great Indianapolis info here. Benjamin Harrison's StreetBy the time this photo was taken, the houses had already been renumbered. Obviously, the person at 656 liked his mounting block the way it was. Sometime prior to 1898, 656 Delaware became 1204 Delaware. This house was next door to President Benjamin Harrison's house at 1230 Delaware. (which explains the reason for the photographers interest in this street). In later years, a large Christan Scientist church (now a Jehovah Witness assembly hall) was built across the street from #656. The church building is still there, but #656 was absorbed into the Presidential House historic site at some point (maybe when the freeway was built?). Yes, painful!I always want to step into these photos. They are so evocative. It is indeed painful how the landscapes and streetscapes of our country have been homogenized. I felt similarly about the photo of Portland, Maine, 1907 that was posted a few weeks ago. Painful indeed!These types of photos -- like the one of Portland, Maine, posted about a month ago -- invite us to step inside but also remind us of how our streetscapes have become homogenized. I do think of Benjamin Harrison, with his vast collection of walking sticks and canes, strolling up and down N Delaware! Harrison's HouseIn 1876, the 600 block of Delaware began at 2nd Street. President Harrison's house was in this block, as Grubemed indicates. (Blue star) Based on the 1906 City Directory, the 600 block of Delaware Street was, as it is today, located between North and Walnut. This is the spot shown in the Google map K2 provided. (Red star) In the LOC photo, you can see a building blocking 7th Street (now 16th) in the distance. Delaware shifts 50 feet or so to the right but continues northward. (1903 map neglects this detail, but the offset exists to this day). The Harrison house can be seen in the LOC photo, between the two leftmost trees in the foreground. The front porch columns are clearly visible behind the background tree between the other two. The house's two large brick chimneys can also be seen to the left of that magnificent cone-shaped roof with an impressive weathervane topping it off. Buggy Steps and Hitching PostsStone buggy steps and hitching posts can be seen in the mow strips along the curb. These can still be found sometimes although few know their original purpose. Benjamin Harrison HouseThe Benjamin Harrison House is now used for naturalization ceremonies for new citizens. My father took the oath their just a few years ago. (The Gallery, DPC, Indianapolis)
Runt's Pool Parlor: 1939
... suit. Back Door Delivery Shiny clean rear of 1937 or '38 Chevrolet Sedan Delivery reflected in window. I am confused by ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 04/11/2021 - 1:19pm -

November 1939. "Runt's pool parlor with poster advertising Tobacco Ball in window. Zebulon, Wake County, North Carolina." Acetate negative by Marion Post Wolcott. View full size. Not a pool hall anymore Alias George E StoneLooks like the sort of place Boston Blackie might wander into. Possible Location With a capital T and that rhymes with PTrouble right here in River City ... Any Boob... can take and shove a ball in a pocket. And they call that sloth. The first big step on the road to the depths of degradation. I say, first, medicinal wine from a teaspoon, then beer from a bottle. And the next thing you know, your son is playin' for money in a pinch-back suit. Back Door DeliveryShiny clean rear of 1937 or '38 Chevrolet Sedan Delivery reflected in window. I am confused by the cigarette advertising slogan on the vehicle door. Is it on the car or reflected from somewhere? [Yes. - Dave] Hope it was a 3 window coupe!The Tobacco Ball signage certainly drew my attention. The prospect of winning a free FORD V8 would undoubtedly have convinced me to attend. And mosquitoes tooJudging from the size of the mesh on the screen door they must have pretty big flies in North Carolina. Window letteringWhen I was a young sign painter, soft drink companies and breweries had healthy budgets for what is now called "point of purchase" advertising. Back then this was called "privilege panels". The beverage companies supplied the preprinted signs which usually had a blank panel to personalize the store. Window valences were water decals applied to the interior of the glass. If the store or tavern moved a lot of product, the salesman may allot extra for some custom lettering (Runts Pool Parlor), but not always. If your company was able to service an account like this, you were assured of steady, although not very profitable work. As a young apprentice I was often given these jobs. Perfect environment to learn layout and speed Runt"Runt" was probably about 6-foot-8 and weighed about 350 pounds. They had to have the double doors on the front so he could get in and out of the place. Pine State Ice CreamWhat was being advertised by that 'Pine State' sign reflected in the window? Eureka! Pine State Ice Cream from the Pine State Creamery in Raleigh. The brand is gone, but the building, built in 1928, is on the National Register of Historic Places. (The pine is the official state tree of North Carolina, but Maine is officially the Pine Tree State.) Check the 7up signnow count the bubbles. Dental recordsThere's a reflection in the window of a sign for Dr. Massey, Dentist. He appears to have had a solo practice until his niece Zyba Massey joined him in 1954, after becoming the first female to graduate from the UNC dental school. https://dentistry.unc.edu/2004/02/zyba-massey-first-female-graduate-of-u... (The Gallery, M.P. Wolcott, Small Towns)
The Lady Vanishes: 1940
... mother of invention, a new device was introduced for the 1937 model year in the United States: the car-top antenna, ideally suited for ... of the rod antenna, which Studebaker introduced in 1937. Eventually Snyder would offer every type of antenna imaginable, but ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 05/29/2019 - 12:30pm -

August 1940. "Street scene in Natchez, Mississippi." Medium format acetate negative by Marion Post Wolcott for the Farm Security Administration. View full size. StumpedAs an unredeemable fan of early "automobiliana," I hate to admit than I'm thoroughly stumped by the suction-cup-attached apparatus visible on the roof of the Chevy appearing here. Could it be a special Flash Gordon antenna intended to pick up radio signals from Mars? No drilling is necessaryAccording to the Evolution of the Automobile Antenna in the United States and Europe by Carlos A. Altgelt, this car-top antenna could either be the Topper by Snyder or the Hi-Way by Philco. The image of a similar antenna is from the June 1936 issue of Radio Craft magazine where you can also find useful information on how to build and sell superior auto-radio receivers. Reception from Natchez to MobileA 1988 article in SAE Transactions by Carlos A. Altgelt, Ken H. Duffy and Clem W. Rowan titled The Evolution of the Automobile Antenna in the United States and Europe — A Historic Retrospective — Part Two — The Last Fifty Years (yes, I read weird stuff), notes that:     Necessity being the mother of invention, a new device was introduced for the 1937 model year in the United States: the car-top antenna, ideally suited for Turret-Top automobiles. Consisting of a 3/8" copper tube running down the middle of the roof, no drilling was necessary to install it, and the car body was not marred in any way.     According to the June 1936 issue of Radio Craft magazine, "the antenna can be removed at any time, since it is fastened in place with rubber section cups, which when applied according to directions will hold firmly and indeflnitely. Rain and ice will not affect the operation of the antenna and the capacity between antenna and car top is usually low."     The antenna was sold in kit form, containing all necassary materials such as the copper tubing itselt, speclal section cups, insulators, connectors and shielded lead-in wire (Figure 4). The "Topper" was made by Snyder, and the "Hi-Way" was made by Philco and were considered to be forerunners of the rod antenna, which Studebaker introduced in 1937. Eventually Snyder would offer every type of antenna imaginable, but the car-top antenna was a hot commodity for only about four years. Gripped-on GordonThe Flash Gordon antenna is most likely an external mounted antenna for receiving regular AM broadcast radio signals. In 1937 Chevrolet sold two types of radio antennas. One would have been mounted vertically on the driver's side in front of the driver's door, and the other was a "Turret Top" model that would have been mounted on the roof. Both antenna models cost $4.50. I don't know if the photo shows the Chevrolet model or if it is an aftermarket accessory. Three Chevrolet radio models were available in 1937 costing either $37.75, $49.75 or 59.75. (The Gallery, Kids, M.P. Wolcott)
Kentucky Akimbo: 1940
... West Side during the Ohio River flood of January 1937, the location of Post Wolcott's photo is at the top, just to the right of ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 04/01/2022 - 3:39pm -

May 1940. "Street in Louisville, Kentucky." Medium format acetate negative by Marion Post Wolcott for the Farm Security Administration. View full size. Always something new on ShorpyA sore neck from looking closely at a photo. Black and White in Louisville... as much as the other way around: this is the 500 block (and onward) of West Walnut -- now Muhammed Ali Boulevard -- when the Grand Theater was a "movie theater for Negroes." The auditorium in the foreground is still there, but the theater, and most everything else, is now a parking lot. But presumably available to all. Trolleybus sightingLouisville's trolleybus system was relatively short-lived, 1936-1951, so we don't often see photos of it. The bus is part of the original fleet of Brill-built coaches, and the Grand Theatre on Walnut Street (now Muhammad Ali Boulevard) identifies the location. The large building to the right is the Louisville Gardens arena, still standing but dormant. Three years earlierIn this shot of Louisville's West Side during the Ohio River flood of January 1937, the location of Post Wolcott's photo is at the top, just to the right of the curve in the river. Contemporary flood maps indicate that this location escaped the worst of it, but not entirely and not by far. My father's oldest sister remembered traversing streets by walking across stranded cars. I pronounce it: FrankfortNotcom and SteveLexington have already identified the location of the 1940 photograph and described the present landscape. Below is a Google Earth photo to support their descriptions. The only thing I can add is the building from where Marion Post Wolcott probably took this photo is still standing. All that's left for me is to tell a joke. Do you pronounce the capital of Kentucky Louieville or Lewisville? Ouch!I gotta admit ... my neck hurts looking at this pic. The Kentucky HotelBuilt at Fifth & West Walnut in 1925, 18 stories, converted to apartments in 1972. PronunciationNatives pronounce it "Lou-vull." Angle of InterestThe angle chosen by photographer adds a dramatic perspective to this amazing scene. Today the area looks like a bomb shattered war zone. (The Gallery, Louisville, M.P. Wolcott, Streetcars)
Brattleboro Blizzard: 1940
... comment, I believe that snow-covered car might be a 1937 Hudson. That Grille It's a Hudson Terraplane. Possibly a 1937. (The Gallery, Cars, Trucks, Buses, Gas Stations, M.P. Wolcott, Small ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 05/08/2019 - 1:26pm -

March 1940. Brattleboro, Vermont. "Corner of Main Street, center of town after blizzard." Acetate negative by Marion Post Wolcott for the Farm Security Administration. View full size. How Vermont Cities ChangeThe gas station is a pocket park plus a florist shop. Montgomery Ward is a hardware store. Some of that green space has been taken over by a bank. The movie theatre has been replaced by a building with an interior decorator and a coffee shop. And because this is Shorpy, the picture was taken from a hotel (Hotel Brooks) which later caught fire. Fortunately, that building is still standing, and has its own wikipedia page. Pshaw!Wolcott calls that a blizzard? Not where I come from (Canada). And I see an umbrella. In winter! "Merry Christmas, Bedford Falls"This photo reminds me of the climax of "It's a Wonderful Life," when Jimmy Stewart runs through town, shouting, "Merry Christmas, Bedford Falls!" I believe Seneca Falls claims to be the inspiration for Bedford Falls, but Brattleboro has the same feel. BlehzzardI live an hour south of there and that ain't no blizzard. What -- 5 inches of snow on the roof? My guess is the photo was taken out a window or on the roof of the building at High and Main streets. Prosperity Reigns!Brattleboro must have been a prosperous community, if such can be judged by the high proportion of current or very late-model vehicles appearing here -- probably higher than would be the case in a similar automotive assemblage today. Then, again, in light of the year-to-year sameness of today's vehicles, how could we tell? Now Playing at the Auditorium"High School" starring Jane Withers, aka Josephine the Plumber. Mandatory Car IDOK, I give up. What is the car in the foreground, next to the streetlamp/highway marker? Manual chokesI'll bet a lot of those cars spit and sputtered on that cold morning since they didn't have automatic chokes like those some ten years later. Made the first few minutes of driving a chore as the car would buck and jerk until it got warm enough to run on the regular mixture. It's all white now. The church, that is. Mystery CarRe Rowdy5858's comment, I believe that snow-covered car might be a 1937 Hudson. That GrilleIt's a Hudson Terraplane. Possibly a 1937. (The Gallery, Cars, Trucks, Buses, Gas Stations, M.P. Wolcott, Small Towns)
Box Car: 1940
... old office building in the background, the Hill Building (1937), remains. Marion Post Wolcott would be here five months later, when she ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 05/02/2022 - 9:40am -

May 1940. "Outside of the tobacco warehouses in Durham, North Carolina." 35mm nitrate negative by Jack Delano for the Farm Security Administration. View full size. Somewhere Near Five PointsThe neighborhood is much changed, but the old office building in the background, the Hill Building (1937), remains. Marion Post Wolcott would be here five months later, when she took this Shorpy photo from the Hill Building: https://www.shorpy.com/node/24973 Kids being kidsGive a kid some nails, a hammer, scrap wood, a few old wheels and watch his imagination take over. I know as a kid, we built a few go-carts ... some better then others. We actually made one so we could be in the annual Cockeysville MD parade. Our friends dad, who raced stock cars, helped us with that one--- and he gave us a real steering wheel to use! Even though we had to push it just like the kids in the photo, we had a blast! Rigsbee RidersAs 'Sewickley' correctly notes, only two of the buildings pictured here remain. The Washington Duke Hotel, the other notable structure shown, has been gone 46 years, almost as long as it was around. It's nice to see a shot in the South that isn't stereotypically the South: these lads could be risking life-and-limb in Anywheresville, USA. Stealing the Baby Coach WheelsI know Bill Cosby is persona non grata these days, but back in the Before Times (the 60's) his story "Go Carts" (from the album Wonderfulness) is perfectly embodied in this picture. I wonder if that's Old Weird Harold, whose go cart had a continental spare on the back! Dr. PepperThey sure like Dr. Pepper at that store. I count at least six signs for it. Nary a Coke sign to be seen, unless I'm missing one. Orange Crush is a distant second. Wide TurnsThat box car has a very narrow track - I think it would be a real handful when going around a corner! Guiders in the CapitalIn the Scottish capital (Edinburgh) we call these "guiders"; in Glasgow they're "bogies." Stealing baby coach wheels"I whipped out my trusty can of 3-in-1 Oil!!" (The Gallery, Agriculture, Cars, Trucks, Buses, Jack Delano, Kids)
Turning Point: 1932
... for cartoon characters, like Porky Pig in Tex Avery's 1937 "Picador Porky." -tterrace] What hand signal? Not sure just what ... 
 
Posted by Cazzorla - 05/01/2016 - 2:00pm -

Tom Jensen, Los Angeles police officer, chef at the Police Academy and part time actor. I scanned this photo at a family reunion for my mother's 90th birthday. He was my mother's stepmother's brother-in-law's brother. View full size. A Bag of Nails or an Electric Washing MachineAnd handy for a nice casket right out the door and to the right. Dresslar's was located forever in Downtown Los Angeles at 1130 W. Washington, the spot where this very busy traffic photo was taken. Mighty Turtle HumpsOkay, the trolley runs down the middle of the street and you have stations to get on it, marked by turtle shell hump dots in the pavement. So you walk across a lane of moving traffic to get into the turtle hump box, to wait for that trolley. No car would ever accidentally drive into the turtle hump box, because, as you can see, those mighty turtle humps are there to tell them not to. And no pedestrian would ever get hit crossing moving traffic, because, as this picture seems to show, even then, Los Angeles traffic was totally jammed. So, explain to me now, why we don't use mighty turtle hump boxes. They seem to have been so "safe" for all back in 1932. [They also came handy for cartoon characters, like Porky Pig in Tex Avery's 1937 "Picador Porky." -tterrace] What hand signal?Not sure just what hand signal the driver at the arrow is making. I thought left hand up was for a left turn, down for a right turn, but that driver's left hand is straight out. [That's how my father, and other drivers, signaled for a left in California in the 1950s. Arm raised aiming up was for a right and arm down was for slowing. -tterrace] DeVauxThe pretty sedan in front of Mr Jensen was a rare bird even then, a first-rate salesman named Norman DeVaux brought a new company to market in the spring of '31 and was in receivership before a year was out, total production over two model years was a bit over 6000 cars. Ultra rare autoThe car with the dealer plates at the right is an extremely rare 1932 DeVaux. One of them was featured in a recent issue of Hemmings Classic Cars. The car immediately behind it is an early '20s Essex built by Hudson. Pierce-Arrowis the only car I can unequivocally identify with its distinctive fender-mounted headlights looking straight at us from the right rear of the Air Line Transfer truck. Shorpy's De VauxA 1931 De Vaux with a 65 hp Hall engine can be seen on Shorpy here. Turtle Humps Cont'dThey are the bane of Shriners everywhere who drive tiny cars in parades. They will flip you if you're not careful. Next on the list is following mounted units. I'll leave it at that. In IndianaThat's how we were taught to hand signal in the Hoosier state: Arm up (right turn), arm straight left (left turn), and arm down (slow or stop). Safety ZoneThose "Turtle Humps" or "Mushrooms" as many call them were used extensively for numerous purposes. Some were lighted, some with reflectors and some with words like STOP. The particular one pictured had LAPD in raised letters on it, one is on display at the LAPD Museum. I'm getting a headacheIsn't my mother's stepmother's brother-in-law's brother also my mother's stepmother's brother-in-law? I'm getting a headache. No Relation?If I understand correctly, this man was the brother of the man who was married to your mother's step-mother's sister. (ShorpyBlog, Member Gallery)
Dads Say the Darndest Things!
September 1937. "McNally family dairy farm in Kirby, Vermont. The McNallys at dinner." ... Lucky These farmers are lucky to have electricity in 1937, as evidenced by the presence of ice cubes in their glasses. The Rural ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 11/16/2017 - 12:16pm -

September 1937. "McNally family dairy farm in Kirby, Vermont. The McNallys at dinner." Photo by Arthur Rothstein for the Farm Security Admin. View full size. PunchlineDad looks like he is telling a joke. Mom and son look like they are about to laugh loudly. Great picture!! LuckyThese farmers are lucky to have electricity in 1937, as evidenced by the presence of ice cubes in their glasses. The Rural Electric Co-op didn't reach my farm in upstate New York until 1944 (I didn't live there at the time). #DadJokesAhhh, so's yer ol' man! Introducing ...Edmund C. McNally (41), Edith S. (34), Robert C. (8). Not pictured are Elizabeth A. (coming in two years), a servant and three hired hands. All are Vermont natives. Edmund completed high school and Edith completed elementary school. Edmund typically works 75 hours per week. Edith will pass away in 1999 at almost 95 but she outlived her son, who died in 1981. Both outlived Edmund, who died in 1973 of heart disease. Elizabeth would live till 2006. All four stayed in Vermont till their death. A Celebration of ?I wonder what the occasion is? This picture was cropped out of a larger one. There is an extra elbow on the table next to dad’s and an extra female hand next to mom’s. Also there are several extra place settings on the table. The young son appears to be squeezed in at the corner of the table. Dad is telling his joke to someone sitting across from him. If this is in September, could it be a Labor Day celebration? [It's not cropped and it's not a celebration. Rothstein's assignment was to document everyday life on the McNally's farm. -tterrace] The Irish gift of gabThis dad apparently passed on his genetic code to his son in more ways than one. They look like clones of different ages and young Robert shows definite signs of inheriting his father's ability to tell a good story, keep the blarney coming and being of good cheer always, kind of like an apprenticeship. Even mom is enjoying the entertainment and going along with Edmund's yarn which she has probably heard a hundred times. I am impressed that a family that works 75 hours a week as farmers (which means EVERYONE works that hard) still has the good nature to enjoy a meal together with enjoyable conversation. Mom also sets a nice table with lots of great depression glass and china and cares enough to provide everyone with good food. Bless all the world's farmers, the rest of us could not live without them. The DinnerwareMount Clemens Pottery, possibly even this color Green. (The Gallery, Arthur Rothstein, Kids, Kitchens etc.)
Young Gun: 1939
... believe OldeRadio is correct. The radio appears to be a 1937 Silvertone 4661, seen here: ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 01/13/2013 - 8:25pm -

January 1939. "Sunflower Plantation. Son of tenant farmer in corner of living room. Pace, Mississippi." Note Sonny's suction-cup ammo. Large-format nitrate negative by Russell Lee for the Resettlement Administration. View full size. Butcher PaperTterrace we always licked the suction cups before shooting the darts usually at the tv or a window. Glass and foreheads seemed to be the only things that they would stick to. Suction cup?We don't need no stinking suction cup. The first thing my brother and I would do is pull the cup off and sharpen the end in a pencil sharpener. our main targets were cardboard boxes. I'll leave it at that. Cool guitar!Melody King, set up for Hawaiian style playing, with the raised nut. Made in Chicago by the Harmony Co., distributed by the Bronson Co., to the best of my understanding. I collect and restore old Harmony guitars. Streamline!Can anybody identify the toy in the box? Is it a travel trailer, or maybe a bus? And I like the ships wheel motif around the sound hole in the guitar. No refrigerator hereToo bad because that's the only thing those darts stuck to. My uncle pronounced me "the laziest kid I have ever seen in my whole life" because I had tied thread to my darts so I wouldn't have to get up and go retrieve them. I had one.Those suction darts would never stick to anything. [Surely I can't be the only one who spit on the cup and stuck it to my forehead. And got a nice round blue bruise for my trouble. - tterrace] WallPAPERI just love that "Real McCoy" wall PAPER - likely with no insulation and Tar Paper on the outside. Pity the kid did not have crayons to draw on it. PowerlessFrom what I can see, there's probably no electricity in the house. The huge "A" battery , and the "B" battery which may be behind it on the chair, probably powered a radio among other things. The AM receiver on the table looks like it was gutted but they may have had another one. It also appears that Our Gang's "Alfalfa" was a relative. Farm radioThe antenna and ground leads for the radio are visible just to the right of the table; the antenna lead disappears through a hole in the window frame. It's likely the radio is a Silvertone, mail-ordered from Sears and Roebuck, just like the batteries powering it. Prior to the Electrification Act of 1936 these "farm sets" were popular in rural areas; since it took several years for the "high line" to reach many farms they were still offered in the mail order catalogs in 1940. Streamlined CampingThe toy in the shoe box is a stamped steel toy camping trailer from the All Metal Products Co. in Wyandotte, Mi. It had nickel trim and real rubber wheels. Hopefully the kid still had the really cool LaSalle sedan that pulled the camper! Boys and their toysLike this young lad, I also had a suction cup gun that I used to shot at anything and everything. And like this lad probably did, I found out why there was a belt hanging on the wall within easy reach of mom and dad. Poetry FansI like how the portrait of Emily Dickinson has pride of place for this family. Farm RadioI believe OldeRadio is correct. The radio appears to be a 1937 Silvertone 4661, seen here: http://radioatticarchives.com/radio.htm?radio=3427 Probably a nice set at that time. (The Gallery, Kids, Russell Lee)
Channel Surfing: 1956
... in 1953 - TV was extended to Scotland for this. The 1937 Coronation was televised, but only in the London area. There was no ... 
 
Posted by Angus J - 11/28/2011 - 3:02pm -

Dad is waiting for the Westinghouse to warm up, and the channel selector is set at 7, WXYZ, Detroit. Other choices were 2, WJBK; 4, WWJ and 9, CKLW in Windsor, Ontario, where we lived. The console TV had doors that closed so that it looked like a piece of fine furniture. The TV was turned on for a show, and when that was over it was turned off. If you tuned in too early in the day all you got was the dreaded Test Pattern. A favourite back then was Detroit's own Soupy Sales. The antenna was up in the attic of our two-story home. View full size. Surf's Up, SortaAngus J! Great to see that your dad is still enjoying his TV! At least now he can stay in his chair and choose. Still Channel Surfing: 2011My brother took this photo of Dad last week, in his apartment in Toronto, Ontario. He is 91 now, and his favourite channel is CBC Newsworld, a Canadian version of CNN. I asked him about the Blue Mountain pottery planter (with ivy) on top of the set, and he recalls the lamp was part of the planter. The tube television is hooked up to cable. Deja VuI worked for Crescent TV Service in Windsor for 25 years, I think I remember that set !! You can be sure ...... if it's Westinghouse. Nice to see a vintage TV shot showing the operator at the controls for a change. I think an interesting coffee table book (if not a scholarly monograph) could be produced on the subject of 1950s' set-top decoration modalities. 400 channels in 2011And still some nights there's nothing on. We got our first RCA TV in 1951 in Detroit when I was four. CKLW in Windsor was still several years away. Nothing on but test patterns until late morning. In less than a decade all of the four stations listed in the first post had their own local afternoon kid shows. Adjusting the set top rabbit ears antenna for each channel was a routine we kids quickly picked up. When the picture "tore" or "rolled", and could not be adjusted with the smaller knobs on the front or back of the set, it usually meant a call to the TV repair man who made house calls in those days. It was a sad day when the guts of the set had to be taken to the repair shop for more serious repairs. Eventually our cost conscious Dad found he could solve most problems by pulling the small tubes and taking them to the drug store tube tester which could quickly diagnose the burned out or "gassy" tubes which were causing the problem. Those of you who were TV watchers in the 1950's will probably remember the ghostly spot which faded in the center of the screen for a few seconds after the set was turned off. I now know it was caused by the residual electrons from the "electron gun" in the picture tube as the tube's heater element cooled off. That is what I keep telling myself. That's Blue Mountain pottery on the TVEverybody's mother in Windsor seemed to have at least one piece of the stuff. Candy dishes, ashtrays, you name it. My mum had been lumbered with an intensely ugly Blue Mountain tropical fish. This one looks like it's a lamp base but maybe it's just the angle. Could it really be a floor lamp behind the TV looking like it has taken root in a candy dish? Early TVIn the mid-1940s the father of a friend of mine took delivery of the first TV set received by a radio store in the Bronx. I remember going to their apartment the night the set was installed, and as we all sat in front of the TV waiting for something to happen, there was nothing being broadcast. I must have gone there another 100 times or more and saw TV broadcasting in its infancy. It led to a career choice that I made and thrived on. Vintage TV SetsCan't say I miss the days of the rolling pictures on TV sets. How many hours did we all suffer either fighting with rabbit ears or waiting precariously for the roll to start again! Correction: Channel 9Thanks for the fun photo. Took me back to a childhood growing up on the other side of the Detroit River. Not to be picky, but CKLW-TV was (and I think, still is) Channel 9, not 12. And a good TV channel brought me The Friendly Giant! I always loved rocking chairs, and he had one for me. Light years aheadI'm always fascinated by the wonderful old TV's from the 50's. How they went from something you'd try to hide to something you'd proudly flaunt in just a few years. Of course most fascinating is that in South Africa we still had 20 years to wait from 1956 before we got TV! Re: Early TVMy mother spoke of seeing her first B&W TV in a shop window, probably in 1950, possibly a bit earlier. She stood there watching "Kukla, Fran, and Ollie" for a few minutes, and told Dad, "If that's Television, they can keep it!" Aside: "Kukla" is simply "doll" in Russian. CKLWGrowing up in SE Michigan, CKLW was our favorite channel. Besides such good kiddie fare as "The Friendly Giant" and "Milky the clown" they televised the canadian sport of Curling long before it became known to US sportsmen. It inspired us to steal mom's kettle from the kitchen, fill it with water until it froze and go for it on a nearby frozen pond. No SurfingMy maternal grandparents bought their first TV in 1952 - it was a Peto-Scott (?) where the CRT was vertical and projected on to a mirror. You then viewed the image on a translucent matt screen. Like many they got it for the Coronation in 1953 - TV was extended to Scotland for this. The 1937 Coronation was televised, but only in the London area. There was no need for a channel changer - the only broadcaster was the BBC! Even when the 'inferior' commercial TV broadcasting started (1956?) they kept their set. 405 lines on VHF broadcast from Kirk O'Shotts in between Edinburgh & Glasgow. Soupy Sales, a classic comedianWhen I was a kid in Armonk NY in the 60's, I remember watching Soupy Sales after school. With his white fang and black tooth stick, and his often crude jokes that would get him tossed off the air for a spell. Back then, it was all live. Great memory of him. (ShorpyBlog, Member Gallery)
Palace Laundry: 1925
... Redskins, which he moved to his hometown of Washington in 1937. Incidentally, the Palace Laundry's slogan was "Long live linen." ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 08/08/2012 - 1:00pm -

Washington, D.C., circa 1925. "Palace Laundry." 1811 Adams Mill Road N.W. National Photo Company Collection glass negative. View full size. McCrory 5 & 10?Could that be a McCrory 5 & 10 on the left? [Sanitary Grocery. - Dave] Tree SignI've never seen a tree used as a signpost like this one -- ONE WAY DO NOT ENTER, wired about the trunk. The D.C. city traffic managers were obviously "green" long before their time. Trendy neighborhoodThere's a BB&T bank occupying the building to the right with the arched windows. That peculiar window that's halfway in the stone facade and half in the red brick is still there. There seems to be a cafe in the buildings to the left. View Larger Map ParkedCan someone identify the cars? Slight Anomalies?Two things struck me about this photo. First was the font used for the "Palace Laundry." In cursive, with all lowercase letters, it seems more like something from the 1940's or 1950's. Quite unusual, I think, for the time. Second is the dark sedan on our left. It looks just slightly later than 1925; with its curved, not squared, roof lines, I would have guessed it as a 1927 or 1928 model. [It could be 1928. "Circa" means "around" or "approximately." Where are the car experts? - Dave] CarsI think both cars are GM products. The one on the left looks like a GM product from 1927-1931, it's looks similar to a 1927 Buick and the car on the right looks like a 1919 Buick. I'm not 100% sure. [Neither one is from GM. The car on the left is a circa 1928 Studebaker Dictator. The one on the right is a Hudson. - Dave] Cars IIThanks for the info. I thought I'd give it a shot since noone else did. I'm not too familier with '10s and '20s cars. '40s and '50s cars I can name in an instant. Adams-MorganThis is in an area now referred to as Adams-Morgan, party central for people in their 20s. I can't recall the name of the cafe on the left but it's big with the local kickball league. Crazy CoincidenceI was going thru the DC 1935 Addresses and found that the relative I was researching was working at the Palace Laundry then. Thanks for posting the photo. Palace LaundryThe Palace Laundry and the Redskins have something in common -- both were owned by George Preston Marshall. In fact, Marshall's profitable laundry chain (which had more than 50 stores at its peak) enabled him to buy a pro football team, the Boston Redskins, which he moved to his hometown of Washington in 1937. Incidentally, the Palace Laundry's slogan was "Long live linen." The Missing Half Year & The UnknownThe first car is a 1928 1/2 Studebaker. The long hood length indicates this is actually a President 8 (the Dictator was on a much shorter wheelbase). The 1928 1/2 year models had a new narrower radiator design and a very short visor (military style) over the windshield. The wheels are also unusual, but they are not unique to this year (they were definitely available in 1927 and both 1928 model years). The 1929 closed Studebaker models had a curved "A" post at the windshield so it is easy to identify this as a 1928 1/2 year model. The second car does not appear to be a Hudson. On almost all Hudson's the Hudson triangle is visible on the hubcaps. I cannot see any here (but the photo also does not show the hubcaps as clearly as I would like). Also, the front of the grill should have a flat portion below the corporate logo for a Hudson. Lastly, I cannot find any pictures of a Hudson with the large number of vertical louvers on the hood as seen here. I would have guessed the second car as a Lincoln, but the grill also does not match. I have not been able to determine the exact make of the second car. (P.S. Based on the previously posted information should the title be updated to reflect the year 1928 or 1929 as well as the caption?) Not a StudebakerThe first car is definitely NOT a Studebaker of any year or model. Nothing matches up including body shape, cowl lights radiator shell. Not sure what it is, but sure what it isn't! Disc wheelsThe large car with the disc wheels is a 1929 Nash. Their ad stressed the fact that their motor had seven main bearings making it exceptionally smooth. (The Gallery, Cars, Trucks, Buses, D.C., Natl Photo, Stores & Markets)
Where's the Ticket Window?
... who care, is C&O Pacific type #492. Photo dated July, 1937. View full size. Locomotive Portrait Hard to say who took the ... 
 
Posted by Lost World - 09/23/2011 - 12:05am -

Most locomotive portrait artists were consummate professionals who didn't allow things like light poles--or old ladies--to obscure their subject. Whoever took this photo wasn't on his game apparently. The old lady--a rather comical figure, is she not?--is probably the photographers wife, but I like to think she's lost and wandering around the Cincinnati Union Terminal service area looking for the ticket window. The locomotive, for those who care, is C&O Pacific type #492. Photo dated July, 1937. View full size. Locomotive PortraitHard to say who took the photo, as their were numerous locomotive portrait artists during that era. The goal of many of these men was the impossible task of still photographing every steam locomotive in America. No one ever came close of course, but since many of these photographers knew each other they often traded photos and negatives to add to their collections. Photographer is unknown, but I'll take a stab and guess W.R. Osborne; he took many photos of C&O steam, both still and action, in the 1930's. PhotoI would think it might be his grandmother perhaps, any info as who took the photo? Do love that steamer in the background. LocationI like those "flying pumps" on that Pacific. Looks like either Western Ave or Harrison Ave Viaduct (one of them is gone but I cant remember which) and appears to look Southwest. If I remember correct the shops (adjacent to Storrs Yard) were near Ryerson Steel off Spring Grove Ave about a mile or so North of Cincinnati Union Terminal. CUT was relatively new when this photo was taken. LocationYes, I think the bridge is Harrison Avenue, and I have many more photos taken at this location of passenger locomotives from a number of railroads. CUT was an important passenger hub, used by Southern Railway, C&O, B&O, New York Central, Pennsylvania RR, Norfolk & Western, and Louisville & Nashville. The flying pumps were common on C&O locomotives. The F-19, though far from the most powerful of its type, was certainly one of the most graceful. "I like those "flying pumps""I like those "flying pumps" on that Pacific" Are you referring to the equipment on the front of the engine? Whatever they are, they sure look sexy. What a beautiful machine. Is the cylindrical truck behind the coal tender standard equipment on these Pacifics? Water? That is a stunning looking engine!! Pumps and Other ThingsYes, the flying pumps are the two sets of dual air compressors on the front of the boiler. Most locomotives had them mounted lower on the pilot or on the side of the boiler. The round water compartment on the tender wasn't the norm on most locomotives either. This was known as a Vanderbilt tender, and was designed to prevent water sloshing about when the engine was rounding a curve. Although all of the F-19's had one at one time or another, they were also swapped out with square tenders as needed, since tenders were relatively universal and interchangeable between locomotives of different types. C&O PacificThis was almost certainly taken on the west side of Cincinnati near the large train yard. I wish I could see those buildings in the background a little better. Loco TenderThe Vanderbilt rounded tender was a much more stronger structural design than the square box like tender and would hold more water or oil instead of coal due to its round shape. That's why tank cars and some hopper cars have a round shape on the sides, it also eliminated the required inside bracing needed for a box shape tender or freight car. Design was used for carrying liquids or grain or chemical powders. Cincy Union TerminalYes, that is the Cincy Union Terminal engine service facility. The Terminal and engine facility were completed in 1933. Unfortunately the service facility is now completely obliterated by the Queensgate yard built by then Chessie System in the 70's or 80's. The two decker bridge over the loco is known as Western Hills Viaduct and it did replace an earlier Harrison Street viaduct. (ShorpyBlog, Member Gallery, Railroads)
Little Kittens: 1941
... months. Cool Car Cold Water The car looks to be a 1937 Chevrolet Sport Coupe (with a rumble seat!) and the cold water inlet ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 01/17/2021 - 1:32pm -

March 1941. "Girls at trailer camp for defense workers. Ocean View, Virginia, outskirts of Norfolk." Medium format acetate negative by John Vachon. View full size. Trying, but failingTo understand the gizmo attached to the bottom of the rear fender on the closest bike. It looks like there is one on the other bike, too. [It's a kickstand. - Dave] Well, of course it is. Pretty obvious. Thanks, Dave. Sweet kidsThat girl in the back is beautiful. She could be a model. I wonder how their lives turned out. Charming childrenWhat beautiful faces and expressions. The joy of the one with the little book is almost palpable. Some are born to sweet delight. HappyOnce in a while you see a photo that just makes you happy. This is one of them ! Wonder womenThese three girls are so charming and elegant, each in her own way. The windswept hair of the young lady in back is terribly alluring, and the kerchief with braids and leather gloves in front is so grown-up. Even little kitten girl is styling with that hand-knotted cloth belt. All three are so pleasing. Collector's itemIf the young lady who was so proud of her copy of "More About the Four Little Kittens" had taken good care of it, and saved it to this day, she could do quite well selling it online. If my math is right, if she sold it today based on its market price, she could reinvest the proceeds in a Patreon subscription to Shorpy, avoiding ads and getting background versions of pics for three years and four months. Cool Car Cold WaterThe car looks to be a 1937 Chevrolet Sport Coupe (with a rumble seat!) and the cold water inlet appears to be a hose attached at the clothes line. The young girls are probably sisters. One of them is riding a boys bike but the boy (brother?) is probably okay with it. I hope no kittens were mistreated."More about the Four Little Kittens" (1938), one of those controversial books by Harry W. Frees that allegedly involved stressful posing of live pets. Delightful for kids, maybe not so much for the kitties. https://www.barnebys.com/auctions/lot/3_kaqz_69 HeavyThose bikes look like a lot of steel to be pedaling around. I wonder how much they weighed. Everything to MeFood, shelter, clothing, love and care are essentials but add a bike and books, and life gets pretty close to perfect, and certainly makes other hardships much easier to bear. Bloody boat anchorsfreddy223, the answer to your question is "between 40 and 50 pounds" (18 to 22 kg). My late mother owned a bike identical to the front one, and it was a trial and a misery to ride due to its weight. Five window coupeCurvaceous 1935 Ford, showing off it's its well-polished paint. (The Gallery, Bicycles, Cats, John Vachon, Kids, Norfolk, WW2)
Sand Reef: 1942
... To the delight of the tabloid press, in December 1937 she divorced Stokowski in Las Vegas and a few weeks later married Prince ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 08/28/2022 - 9:49pm -

January 14, 1942. "Prince and Princess Alexis Zalstem-Zalessky, residence in Palm Beach, Florida. Miss Knoop, Mr. Wessel, Prince (standing) and Princess on beach. Treanor & Fatio, architect." 5x7 inch acetate negative by Gottscho-Schleisner. View full size. Palm Beach Notes 1.15.42 Cool house ... cool swimming attireI remember as a kid, my dad wearing the matching swimsuit gear...although I don't think his was as hip as the guy in the photo. I bet at least one of the gents is wearing brown wingtip shoes. I'm curious about the bamboo pole. Is it being used as a flagpole? But you'd think it wouldn't be leaning like that and if the line coming from the top down to his hand was the flag halyard, it would be a continuous loop, a pulley being at the top. So is it just a cane pole for fishing??? [Sometimes I really wonder about you people. - Dave] LOL ... pretty damn scary. I recognize two namesMme. Louis Jacques Balsan was born Consuelo Vanderbilt. Before Balsan she married Charles Spencer-Churchill, 9th Duke of Marlborough. The duke wanted her money; Consuelo's mother wanted a duchess daughter. Even though Consuelo's first marriage was very unhappy, she is buried near Blenheim Palace; not on Staten Island with the other Vanderbilts, not next to her much-beloved second husband. Elsa Maxwell was a society hostess, and a lot more. Read her Wikipedia page. She was very much a self-made woman. She testified in the Claus von Bülow attempted murder trial of his socialite wife. I remember film footage where Elsa was asked about Newport, Rhode Island social life. [Ms. Maxwell died in 1963 -- you're confusing her with someone elsa. - Dave] Damn! I have a very clear image of the film footage and her testimony. I can't find it on the Internet; therefore, it must not exist ... plus, she was dead. Maurice Fatio was a very popular architect, both in Palm Beach and New York City. He and his wife were among the dinner guests. Of his work I could find, the Prince and Princess's home is relatively modern and modest. I couldn't locate their house on the beach and doubt it's extant. At the other end of the spectrum, the house he designed for the Balsans is more typical of his work and very much still there. I wondered just where the prince hailed from. willc supplied Russia. I also found this: Evangeline became a princess, wife of Prince Alexis Zalstem-Zalessky. In 'Crazy Rich: Power, Scandal, and Tragedy Inside the Johnson & Johnson Dynasty', Jerry Oppenheimer describes the prince as “of dubious royal lineage … better known in certain circles as basically a charming gigolo.” Interestingly, guest and artist Guitou Knoop was also Russian, born in Moscow in either 1902 or 1909, depending on the source. "Lady Bountiful Sues Prince as Bad Boy"Newspaper social pages and wire service gossip columns regularly featured snippets about the glamorous doings of the charismatic former Russian Prince and his Princess, whose lives and social prominence in the late 1930s and 1940s furnished popular character types for screwball comedies on Broadway and in the movies. Born in 1897, Evangeline Brewster Johnson was a wealthy Johnson & Johnson pharmaceutical company heiress, whose first husband was Philadelphia Orchestra conductor Leopold Stokowski. To the delight of the tabloid press, in December 1937 she divorced Stokowski in Las Vegas and a few weeks later married Prince Alexis in Phoenix. Their marriage endured until the Prince's death in 1965, despite another cringe-worthy tabloid episode in May 1940 that appeared in dozens of papers from New York to California. Here is the New York Daily News rendition. More social notes: degrees of separationExpanding on willc's account of the marital adventures of Johnson & Johnson heiress Evangeline Brewster Johnson: After Evangeline left celebrity conductor Leopold Stokowski for her dubious prince, Stokowski promptly carried out a well-publicized liaison with Greta Garbo, then a few years later married Gloria Vanderbilt, who was 42 years his junior and 27 years younger than Evangeline. That marriage lasted 10 years, one less than Leopold's with Evangeline. Leopold's two sons with Gloria, Stan and Christopher, are half-brothers of Evangeline's daughters Gloria Luba and Andrea Sadja, and also half-brothers of Anderson Cooper. Evangeline lived to 93, Leopold and Gloria both to 95. (The Gallery, Florida, Gottscho-Schleisner, Swimming)
Small Business: 1940
... the play Hay Fever, which newspaper clippings from 1937 also mention. Hay Fever must have been an annual tradition at the school. ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 08/01/2012 - 2:30pm -

July 1940. "General store in Lincoln, Vermont." Medium-format nitrate negative by Louise Rosskam for the Resettlement Administration. View full size. Wet cementLooks like he was getting a new front walk. MoxieGood at any temperature, critics say it tastes like prune juice, motor oil and store brand cough syrup, others relate the taste to licking a creosote telephone pole. Hot And Cold MoxieJust look at that great Moxie Thermometer, on the wall, to the right of the door. It probably had more viewers than both Coca-Cola signs. The Merry OldsmobileThe front of a 1935 Oldsmobile Series L is visible. The "L" series was an 8 cylinder model (100 hp, 15 mpg at 50 mph, 121" wheelbase) as compared to the "F" series which had a 6 cylinder engine (90 hp, 18 mpg at 50 mph, 115" wheelbase). The "L" series models are easily distinguished by the three sets of horizontal double bars in the grille. The "F" series used three single bars. Note the Texaco sign reflection in the upper right front window of the store. Puffed Wheat Sparkies - A Serial's CerealLater in the 1940's, Quaker rebranded and sweetened its Puffed Wheat(and also Puffed Rice) breakfast cereal products as "Sparkies" and repackaged them, from boxes into clear cellophane bags. The slogan Qauker used for them was, "The Cereal(s) Shot from Guns". Along with General Mills' Wheaties, Kellogg's Pep and Post's Toasties, they were heavily advertised on kids' afternoon radio serial programs. They were all pretty good, except for Pep, which had the taste of wet cardboard. (It offered great premiums, however...) Chronic Hay FeverThe window poster references the play Hay Fever, which newspaper clippings from 1937 also mention. Hay Fever must have been an annual tradition at the school. I know it is for me. Small Business: 1940Charles Arthur Donah died in 1964, at the age of 82. 1940 Census saysHe is Charles A. Donah, 58. Living with his wife, daughter, son-in-law (a gas station attendant), and granddaughter. Kind of brings things to life, eh? Re: MoxieAhhh ... good old Moxie. As someone who can actually drink a Moxie and "somewhat" enjoy the flavor, I think of it like this: Bitter cola mixed with a touch of root beer, and some cherry cough syrup thrown in for good measure. The Moxie Festival (held in Lisbon Falls, Maine) just concluded back around the middle of July, and was the 30th Anniversary of the event. Check out their website for anything and everything Moxie: http://www.moxiefestival.com/ This WAS "my father's Oldsmobile"The ads for the last new touted "not like", but this was indeed like my father's Oldsmobile. He and my mother had the long-wheelbase 4-door sedan when they first married in 1951. It was quite old then, bought second-hand (or third, fourth, fifth...) All their lives they told how it was one of the best cars they ever owned, carrying them to nearly every state in the western United States and over the perilous roads high in the Rockies that predated our interstate system. One of my favorite pictures of them as young newlyweds is them sitting on that long hood of theirs in baby blue. (The Gallery, Louise Rosskam, Small Towns, Stores & Markets)
Local Traffic: 1941
... I remembered, it was a John Deere model "L," produced from 1937 to 1946. It replaced thousands of farm horses. The former not the ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 02/03/2019 - 5:52pm -

May 1941. "Intersection of the two main streets of Childersburg, Alabama." Acetate negative by Jack Delano for the Farm Security Administration. View full size. John DeereWhen I saw the tractor I knew I had seen that interesting rear cowl slope before. I believe that is a JD Model LA. Two cylinder gas, first built in '41 so perhaps the photo shows a dealer delivery in progress with a pit stop at the diner. But from where?I found the intersection of First Street and Eighth Avenue SW, but Delano’s perch is no longer there. First Street and 8th avenueExcept for the building housing the Dinette, the establishments on the north side of First Street seem largely intact today. Wide OpenI note a distinct lack o' door on the truck in the center. Really interesting slice of life picture from this high angle. We can see all kinds of businesses, vehicles, people. Fun to look at. Buildings adjoining the Dinette The building to the right of the Dinette on 8th Avenue (where the man is walking down the sidewalk) still exists. There's an old-school auto parts store there today. From the debris on the sidewalk against the front of this building it appears to be just-finished new construction. It also looks like the other building adjoining the Dinette (around the corner) is under construction but almost finished. Tracks and LionelThis looks like a diorama from a really nice train set. Sweet!The name of "The Dinette" and the design of that hanging sign is really sweet. About the ladderI'm guessing the ladder hangs on the roof by that makeshift "skyhook" that allows it to slide along the peak as needed. In this photograph the ladder is probably in storage, on the back side of the roof, just waiting for its next victim. And yes, there was that time I had a similar skyhook fail on a ladder years ago, but that's another story. Shorpy Tractor Identification ImperativeThe little tractor on a trailer in the upper right of this photo intrigued me, because it looked distinctive and vaguely familiar. Then I remembered, it was a John Deere model "L," produced from 1937 to 1946. It replaced thousands of farm horses. The former not the ladderSeveral days ago you posted a hotel with a precarious ladder to reach the flagpole from a rooftop window. Okay, understandable, if dangerous. However, I can't see any reason for the ladder on the building at the bottom of the picture. There's no opening visible on the roof and no reason I can see to climb up there. Surely they would not have gone to all that trouble to provide a way to inspect the chimney or that false storefront. Maybe it's to board a flying saucer. Covered AdsI'll bet that the proprietor of the Drugs Cafe (Cafe Drugs?) wasn't too pleased that the new building next door covered his nicely painted advertisements on the wall. The bit that we can see doesn't look very weathered or faded, so it was either really good paint or relatively recently painted. That ladderHere’s another view of the roof with the skyhook of the ladder poking up over the ridge. But I still can’t see the roof of the building next door from which Delano took the photo. WaterThe 'Dinette' is surrounded by new construction. Where did the rain water flow from its roof and the roof of the new building directly behind it I wonder. Both roofs slope down to a spot at the rear of the 'Dinette', but no downspout or scupper is visible. MultitaskingIt appears to me that the arms supporting the illumination lamps for the 'TEXACO' sign also have insulators carrying telephone/telegraph wires. If so, that is most quaint and unusual. (The Gallery, Cars, Trucks, Buses, Gas Stations, Jack Delano, Small Towns)
Winter Sports: 1940
... Story." The only things missing are the driveway and the 1937 Oldsmobile (and the Leg Lamp!). Get off my lawn That's what's wrong ... 
 
Posted by Dave - 12/27/2012 - 7:50pm -

November 1940. "Children sledding, Jewett City, Connecticut." First stop: the frozen flagpole. 35mm nitrate negative by Jack Delano. View full size. At first glanceThe house and the scene looks like it could be straight out of the movie "A Christmas Story." The only things missing are the driveway and the 1937 Oldsmobile (and the Leg Lamp!). Get off my lawnThat's what's wrong with kids these days. No plaid. SledsMy sled when I was a kid in the late 40s through the 50s was very similar to the one on the far left. I don't think it was new when I got it, so it was probably of the same vintage as these. The longer sled on the far right looks like it might be a Flexible-Flyer. I always wanted one of those, but it never materialized. I got one for my son in the 70s though. Insulation?Looking at the iced-over sash windows I wonder what the temperatures inside must have been. Or the fuel consumption. I don't suppose that those windows had more than one layer of glazing, either. @Iscovescu Ah, storm sash windows, I see. Had to google it. Somewhat like the winter add-ons that used to be all the rage with central / northern European casement windows before the invention of integrated double glazing. These winter casements are simpler to open for ventilation, though. Blast from the past!Jewett City, CT? This is the small town next to the small town I grew up in! How fascinating. Never expected Shorpy to post something so close to my (obscure) hometown. Thanks! Love this site! Storm WindowsThe room above the parlor may have them but it's obvious the side windows don't. We had a cellar-full of broken wooden sash storms in every old home we rented. The downspout entering the cellar, presumably to enter the sanitary system, is something I've never seen before. Still there!The house (actually a duplex) is still there and the neighbor's garage behind it too! This Is Us!Anyone who was a sentient being in America between 1935 and 1955 would recognize the children, the outfits, the houses, this street. This was small-town USA for many years, in a time when to have even one toy that required a battery placed the owner in the technological stratosphere. These kids' feet and fingers are numb, their ears and noses ache with the cold ... and they could care less! Winter Sports: 1940According to the 1940 census, the family living at this house, 33 Mathewson St, was Andrew and Mary Burda, born in Poland, and five of their children, born in the US, ranging in age from 32 to 14. Andrew and the four oldest children worked in a cotton mill. DownspoutThe downspout may have lead to a cistern, which would provide non-potable water for washing, etc. Growing up in an older rental, we had a well for drinking water, and a cistern for everything else. The downspouts weren't very reliable, so we would have a truckload of water dumped into the cistern every month. I think the kid on the leftis George Bailey, the one on the right is probably his brother Harry. Winter Sports: 1940I talked to a granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Burda, the occupants of the house at that time. She had never seen the photo. She told me that the white building to the left was a garage to a house that was on Tracy Avenue. The long building in the back of the house was the town movie theater. It was refurbished and reopened in 2005, but has since closed. The house is a duplex (33 and 35 Mathewson St). The house was in the Burda family until 2007. (The Gallery, Jack Delano, Kids)
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