Sunday, May 28, 1911

Posted on by Rebecca C.

On the back of this photo, written in pencil, is the date, Sunday, May 28, 1911. The young people in the photo appear to be dressed up. Since, there was a special notation that the photo was taken on a Sunday, I am going to guess the photo was taken at church. Perhaps, there was a confirmation or a special Sunday gathering.

The back of the photo contains names. But I cannot guarantee I am copying them correctly. The pencil markings are faded in places. I also cannot tell you the order of the names in correlation with the children. But, to the best of my knowledge, the information reads:

  • S.M.E. Orchestion
  • Sunday, May 28, 1911
  • Alice Carlquist
  • Elsie Erickson
  • Helene Norberg
  • Eva Carlquist
  • Edna Esseer
  • E.E. Itarry Anderson
  • Laurie Carlquist
  • Gust Magnuson

I wish I could read the plaque at the right of the photo, hanging on the brick. I think the information on the plaque would provide more clues to the photo.

What do you think?

Mr. & Mrs. Herman Ecley

Posted on by Rebecca C.

I am not 100% certain that the last name is spelled correctly. I purchased the image from eBay. The picture was extremely damaged. I cleaned up the image to the best of my abilities.

The writing on the back reads:

Mr. & Mrs. Herman Ecley

Oct. 25, 1941

So what do you see when you look at this photograph?

I see:

  • The couple smiling as they hold hands.
  • There is a man standing to the right of the groom. Perhaps, he is the minister or a father.
  • Her wedding dress has a long train. I would guess the gown costs a large sum of money. Unless the wedding dress was homemade. I cannot tell from the photos.
  • The double doors in the back could be the entrance to a church. If not, the family home is large.

Did I miss anything? I would love to know this couple’s story. Did they have a happy marriage? Did they have children? Did they travel? If anyone knows, I would love to hear from you.

Nature is my Teacher

Posted on by Rebecca C.

“Come forth into the light of things, let nature be your teacher” William Wordsworth

I cannot think of any words that ring truer for me. I have learned a lot about wildlife and nature through my viewfinder. I am not just talking about the research. I think the research of a subject of my photo is important. I want to get the facts as accurate as possible. I referring to the overall lessons I learn just by trying to get the best photo possible.

I have learned patience in trying to get the best photograph at a moment’s notice. Wildlife does not get the concept of retakes. I either get the photo in the instance or not at all.

I have learned to always be prepared. When walking around outdoors, you must be prepared. I have gotten chances to get one photo before the subject is gone. If you do not have a camera at the ready, you will not get the photo.

I have learned animals are characters. I am convinced that many wild animals deliberately turn their backside at me when I am trying to get the perfect photo. I also think certain birds get annoyed with the clicking of my camera.

I have learned that not all animals are afraid of you. The old saying, they are more afraid of you than you are of them is not true. I find this true with raccoons. I love these pesky little creatures. The other night I walked out on to my front porch; my cat kept looking upwards. I really did not think much of it. The sky was brightly lit with moon light. I just figured she was watching bats flying around or bugs. But that was not the case; she was actually watching the raccoon hang upside down from my porch roof. If I had been a couple more steps in his direction, he could have touched my hair. And trust me, the phrase “screaming like a girl” would have taking on a whole new meaning.

Oh well, I enjoy my country life. Listening to the frogs and crickets at night aid me in falling asleep; I would not have it any other way.

Until next time…peace.

 

 

Snow Storm, Photos & Memories

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Mid-Michigan is in the middle of a snow storm right now. So, I have put some extra wood in the fireplace to stay warm. Now, I am just working on some old negatives turning them into digital prints.  I am thankful that I really did not have anywhere important to go today.  The area could see up to 14 inches of snow by morning. I am just hoping that all those who have to get out for work are safe in their travels.

I honestly do not think these photos have been viewed since they were taking.  No one remembers the photos.  But I am enjoying the trip down memory lane. The first photo I am sharing with all of you today is of my grandfather and his first wife.  He was actual married twice before he met my grandmother.  At the same time, she had been married two times before.  They both agreed the third marriage was the best.  I love the old car in the photo, I wish I had that to play around with today.

I was surprised to find a photo of myself mixed in with his negatives.  Of course, I can’t really remember him taking the photo.  I can tell you the photo is over 40 years old.  The photo made me laugh.  My mom always tried to put us girls in dresses.  If you look closely at the photo, you will notice I am not wearing any shoes and I have band aids on my knee.  I loved being outdoors.  Still do.  And, yes I still walk around with no shoes on during the summer.  I think being without shoes connects you with nature.

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I hope everyone has a wonderful evening.  If you are out in this nasty snow storm, safe travels.