Old Buildings: Great Character

Posted on by Rebecca C.

I love old buildings, they have such great character.  Being the history nerd that I am, I would love to know who lived in the house which is located on a farm.  Was the house big inside? Was there a family? But until I know the facts, I can only guess at these abandoned places in Michigan. I know farmers by land to plant crops. If old houses or other buildings are on they land, they usually go to ruin.

The buildings seem full of despair; they were once grand homes or barns.  Now, they are falling apart in deterioration.

Abandoned barn in Gratiot County, Michigan
Abandoned barn in Gratiot County, Michigan

Vintage Military Photos

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Sorting through old black and white negatives is time consuming.  But when come across certain images, the whole process is extremely rewarding. I thought I would share a few of the military photos that I have been making into digital prints.  The negatives are old and wore; the prints are as best as I can do with what I have to work with.

Military

I honestly cannot tell you if they are going to see or coming in this photo.  There are more negatives from this estate sale.  I am hoping to come across more photos of the ship and the scene.

On a Train?

I absolutely love this photo.  I have no way of known what is actually being said between the couple.  But I would like to think, he just asked her to marry him.

Nurses

These two women are in a lot of the photos.  I am not 100% sure, but I think they are nurses. They look like they were with a group who were on a leave.  The two woman appear in various photos that also have landscape photos in the negatives.

Working on a Plane

These three gentleman look like they were working on a plane.  Or perhaps, they are just talking.

If there is anyone who can see any details in these photos, that may help in the research.  I would love input.  I am curious as usual.

Vintage Photos: A Moment Caught in Time

Posted on by Rebecca C.

I work a lot with old photos, negatives and slides. I am also beginning to learn the techniques to scan old 8mm and 16mm film reels. I find all of them to be fascinating as a way of capturing a moment in time.  A historical moment for families, friends and loved ones to look back upon with great memories which is why I often refer to my work as finding lost memories; a moment caught in time for future viewers. The photos go back decades.

So, where do I find my photos?  Honestly? Everywhere, I have purchased them at estate, garage and yard sales.  I have acquired some through auctions.  I have had numerous negatives just given to me.  People come across them in attics and old drawers.  They have no use for them.  So they pass them on to me which I am extremely grateful.

For those who do give me negatives or slides, I make a digital copy disc in return.  Perhaps, they have a family member who can recognize a person or place in one of the photos that I work on.  I work with old photos as a way to relax.  I know that sounds crazy, but I enjoy the process of bringing an old photo to life after numerous years of being idle.

You can check out some of my recent work at:   http://thephotogypsy.zenfolio.com/vintagecandids

Vintage Photo: The Kelso Funeral Home Girls Ensemble

Posted on by Rebecca C.

What can I say, I love vintage photographs.  The photos give me a glimpse at a different time, a time gone by.  I cannot honestly say if these times were better or worse.  I really think that is a matter of perspective. The photos will sometimes contain names which I am always researching.  But, most of the time the photographs just reveal lost memories.

I take these old photos, slides or negatives clean them up as best I can with the use of digital enhancement.  I try not to lose the grittiness of the old prints.  I think that is what makes them so unique and interesting.

I recently was fortunate to come across some photos from an estate sale.  I love that the person that owed this photo wrote a story on the back.  Old stories are why I love finding these treasures.  Most of the photos that I get are a mystery.  But this one had background information. This is what the story reads:

   The Kelso Funeral Home Girls Ensemble began when Dorothy and all except Allene Rayburn & Polly Anna O’Neil were in the 7th grade.  In those days most, but not all funerals in Wellington were held in churches in the town.  This group was formed by Mr.  & Mrs. Jimmie Kelso to provide music for those funerals held in his funeral home-mainly because those people could not afford to pay for someone sing.  I shall never forget the Kelson’s & Mrs. Elliot for all they did for us.  As time went on we provided music for many functions-even performed on radio in Vernon, Texas. This was in the depression and none of the families represented here could have afforded voice lessons for any of us or the money to travel as we did.  Mr.  & Mrs. Kelso & Mrs. Elliot did that out of their pockets.  All of us dearly loved them and shall never forget them. “1986”—Dear Cora Clark Holton and Polly Anna O’Neil have passed away. 

Front row:  Polly Anna O’Neil (pianist), Dorothy Holcomb, Cora Clark, Allene Rayburn (Pianist after Polly Anna O’Neil

Back Row:  Betty Lou Blanton (?), Faye Moore, Mrs. Elliot (Director), Frances Nunnelly, & Virginia Blideao.

 

 

Introduction to My New Blog

Posted on by Rebecca C.

I wanted to create a blog that’s about anything and everything.  On a daily basis, I write content for a variety of clients.  Don’t get me wrong, I am thankful for the pay as well as the ability to write and research subjects to my client’s satisfaction.  However, somewhere along the line I have lost my focus in my personal and creative writings. So, I am hoping by starting a new blog, I can find my inspiration to finish my book. I also want an outlet for whatever comes to my mind.  You are warned.

Besides being an avid writer which I have done all my life, I am photographer.  My favorite subject to photograph is wildlife.  I can spend hours outdoors as I try to get the perfect photo of a bird, spider or a breathtaking landscape.

Next to wildlife photography, black and white photography is my favorite artistic outlet. I love using black and white photography when taking photos of people.  Black and white photography gives me a chance to view more a person’s inner self.   I do plan to share photos with you as well.

I am an movie nut and a lover of good music.  Feel free to share your favorites with me.  I will watch or listen to either.  But, I will also give you my opinion.

Thanks for following my new site.

Have a great evening.

Rebecca C.