Sponsored by The Adult School and the Kemmerer Library Harding Township

Photography was officially invented in 1839 and by 1840 Samuel Morse had already imported it into the US. From this moment on people made it their tool, not only to record the incredibly fast changing city, but also trying to capture portraits to express their identity…to promote themselves…as creative outlet…Photographers developed new and artful techniques of lighting and impressive studio props, but they also went on the streets to help promote social change and to support the acceptance of a new immigrant generation. Taking a closer look at the role of photography between the Civil War and WWI is a wonderful way to gain a better understanding of this important chapter of our history.