Photo Archive of African American Family Life, 1950s

African American life in Colorado

Photograph

A lively portrayal of African American life in Denver, circa 1950s. Archive of 27 Black and white silver gelatin photographs. Each measure 3.25" x 3.5". Photographs capture members of an African American family in various settings and poses, a cast of characters at home and a park, gathered together and standing alone, a sweeping overview of one family's life. In several photographs, a mother, father, and son pose together adjacent to what may be their large family home. They wear posh attire---the father wears a light colored suit and knee length dresses. Their son is captured in several images, gleefully posing for the camera. In one photograph, he eats a slice of watermelon as he sits atop a grassy field. He wears jeans and checkered suspenders. Several images capture other family members, possibly aunts, cousins, and uncles gathering for a picnic in the park. In one photograph, a man picnics at a park whilst a multitude of cars lie in the background. One photograph captures a family member holding a tennis ball, while another photograph depicts a man in a plaid flannel posing near by car. One photograph captures the view from a hotel room in Denver---a large sign appears in the background that faintly reads "Hotel Harris". Many of the images capture the essence of Black joy---a phrase used by historians to highlight the positive aspects of Black history separate from its suffering. Representations of African Americans living lives at once ordinary and inspired, both deeply personal and universal, is an integral piece of any American history archive. One photograph bears pen annotation on blank verso that reads "Denver from Hotel room". Very good condition.

Item #19897

Price: $685.00