Hundred Plus Years Ago

Original Photographer Unknown

At the moment a big clean up happening around the home, taking down everything gave me the opportunity to photograph some calendar photography I had kept for many years.

Story to framing happened when our offices moved to a larger office with great empty walls, the penny dropped... Living in a drawer at home twelve photo's taken back when in black and white with history of our region, why not frame them?

Only eight were found when I exited the corporate world, someone must have thought to take four for themselves after we moved to another premise, (with nowhere to display them). Well they had served a purpose in the office bringing joy for around fifteen years, I hope whoever took part of the collection really enjoyed them as much as I have.

History is a passion since young, I often reflect how this photographer must have stood with his Oh so manual machine with external light-bulb making sure to capture the ultimate photo. How many frames did he use, with what brand name, massive box type as the studios used or more portability preferred? There weren't too many to select from as Flash of Darkness mentions.

Now onto the old photographs within their frames which I would never remove only restore to ensure moisture doesn't seep in. Photographed during this last week to share at taste of Durban's yesteryear.

Esplanade from Field Street looking towards Albert Park, shows Royal Natal Yacht Club, New Law Court Building (bathing and yachting) circa 1910 to 1915

Cave Rock off the Bluff area 1890 (blown up during WWII)

Bathing enclosure 1915

Bathing - Durban Beach Front (note Durban Corporation swim suits "Bumble Bees" 1920 circa

Berea Road Tram 1881

Double Decker Horse Drawn tram in the residential area 1890

A Point wharf 1910

Tug bringing in a Sailing Ship (taken from the Bluff looking towards the Point). Early harbour development at the point 1890

On display in newly painted verandah entering the home, more like small entrance hall.

Now onto the old photographs within their frames which I would never remove only restore to ensure moisture doesn't seep in. Photographed during this last week to share at taste of Durban's yesteryear.

Our family had a folding camera not that it was used too often, mostly holidays when young, yes all black and white! Kodak was a big name at the time with developers doing the trade of converting film to glossy paper, perhaps it was the brand purchased. I also keep in mind my father was born in 1911 making these treasured items to reflect back to what life must have looked like.

When out and about clicking away on a digital, remember this was not always the way life happened. Each frame timed, lighting taken into account, settings before taking a snap it was an art-form which is the way it should remain.

All photography my own using Canon Powershot SX730 HS. Anything not properly identified please let me know in comments below. Now go out and have a wonderful day wherever you live in our wonderful world.

Thought for Today: "Old men and women in the village are books of history and wisdom." - African Proverb