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tasya, New York, NY (2024)

10/09/2024

In the early 1900s, life moved at a slower pace, and simple pleasures like picking wildflowers were a common pastime, especially for young women and children. This photo, likely taken in the countryside or on the grounds of a cemetery, captures a moment of peaceful connection with nature. Wildflower picking was more than just a leisurely activity; it was often part of rural life, where people lived closer to the land and had a deep appreciation for the natural beauty around them. In an era without the distractions of modern technology, people often found solace in the outdoors, where activities like flower picking became moments of quiet reflection or social bonding.

In the early 20th century, photography itself was becoming more accessible to the general public. This photo, probably taken with a simple box camera, represents the growing trend of capturing everyday moments. These early cameras allowed people to preserve memories of the small, meaningful events in their lives, like a day spent wandering through fields or visiting a loved one’s grave. The choice of black-and-white photography adds to the timeless quality of the image, lending it a nostalgic feel that transports the viewer back to a simpler, more grounded way of life.

For women and girls in particular, picking wildflowers was often a symbol of femininity and innocence. In literature and art of the time, young women were frequently depicted in pastoral settings, gathering flowers as a symbol of purity and harmony with nature. This cultural association with wildflowers and femininity can be seen throughout the Victorian and Edwardian eras. The idea of a girl picking wildflowers evokes not only the innocence of youth but also a connection to the cycles of life and death, especially if this photo was indeed taken on cemetery grounds.

Cemeteries during this period were often designed as garden-like spaces where families could come to reflect and find peace. It wouldn’t have been unusual for people to gather wildflowers on these sacred grounds, not only to decorate graves but also as a way to feel closer to their loved ones who had passed. The practice of picking flowers, whether in the countryside or at a cemetery, was intertwined with the rituals of life and death, a gentle reminder of the fleeting beauty of life.

This photograph, though simple in its composition, speaks volumes about the values and lifestyle of the early 1900s. It is a window into a world where nature played a central role in daily life, and small moments of beauty were cherished and preserved. Whether the girl in the photo was picking flowers for fun, for a loved one, or simply as a way to enjoy the countryside, the image captures a sense of serenity that resonates even today. The timeless appeal of wildflowers and the act of gathering them continues to symbolize a connection to the earth and the quiet joy found in nature’s beauty.

10/09/2024

A shoemaker from 1850.

10/09/2024

John Lennon's son Julian took to Twitter on Saturday after bumping into his late father's Beatles bandmate Sir Paul McCartney at an airport lounge.
Amazingly Paul was listening to a track by Julian himself from his new album “Jude” on his phone at the time.
As everyone knows the Beatles’ Hey Jude started out as Hey Jules and was written in 1968 by Paul after seeing Julian (then aged only 5) after John had left Cynthia for Yoko and that is the reason why Julian used the name Jude for his new album.
Paul is now 80 and Julian is 59! See less

10/09/2024

The early decades of the 20th century saw a rather unusual practice take hold in the United States - the mailing of babies and young children through the Parcel Post system. This peculiar phenomenon emerged shortly after the launch of Parcel Post services on January 1, 1913, which allowed Americans to send packages and parcels through the mail in a convenient and affordable way.While intended for inanimate objects, some enterprising and frugal parents quickly realized the potential to use this service to transport their children over long distances. At the time, purchasing a train ticket was prohibitively expensive for many families. However, the Parcel Post rates were very economical - it cost just 15 cents for the first pound and about 1 cent per pound for every additional pound after that. For cash-strapped parents needing to travel with young kids, mailing their little ones turned out to be the thriftiest option.The first baby to be delivered via mail was one James Beagle, an eight month old who, at just under 11 pounds, was still technically under the weight limit that the postal service was imposing at the time. The child was mailed to his grandparents, who only lived a few miles away; so, fortunately for the tot, the journey was not arduous. (Indeed, sources claim that he slept most of the way there). According to the Smithsonian, James cost a mere 15 cents in postage – a "discount rate" if ever there was one. However, his parents also "insured" him for $50.00, which was no small charge back then. James's journey created a sensation, and it established a child mailing trend that would continue for several years to come.The process of sending babies through the mail was not as haphazard or dangerous as it may sound today. Their journeys were intentionally short, and parents were required to accompany and keep watchful eye over their mailed children during transit. Postmasters would simply affix the necessary postage stamps to the child's clothing and have them ride along with mail clerks on trains and delivery vehicles. Upon arrival, the kids would be collected from the destination post office by waiting relatives.While certainly an unorthodox practice through today's lens, mailing babies was seen as a creative and acceptable solution for families with limited means in that era. Records indicate that at least a few dozen and potentially over 100 children were sent through the mail in this fashion during the mid-1910s before the service was eventually banned as being inappropriate and improperly taking advantage of the Parcel Post system.The last documented case of a mailed baby occurred in 1915, when a young girl was shipped from Stratton, Oklahoma to her grandparents in Kansas - a journey of over 720 miles by rail! After this incident gained national headlines and public outcry, the Post Office finally prohibited the mailing of children for good in 1916. But it remains an amusing, if bizarre footnote in American history when sending kids became briefly acceptable postage!

10/09/2024

Leroy Robert "Satchel" Paige was born on July 7, 1906, in Mobile, Alabama. Though many speculate it may have been more like 1903.

According to Paige, his mother sent him to earn money carrying luggage for businessmen at the train station, but he was frustrated with the little money it paid. So he rigged a pole to carry several bags at once to make the job pay better, and his co-workers purportedly told him, "You look like a walking satchel tree." And his nickname stuck.

At the age of 42 in 1948, Paige was the oldest major league rookie while playing for the Cleveland Indians. He played with the St. Louis Browns until age 47, and represented them in the All-Star Game in 1952 and 1953. He was the first player who had played in the Negro leagues to pitch in the World Series, in 1948, and was the first electee of the Negro League Committee to be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1971.

10/09/2024

During the 1700s lobsters were so plentiful that they used to wash ashore on Massachusetts beaches in piles up to 2 feet high. Lobsters were considered the “poor man’s chicken” and primarily used for fertilizer or fed to prisoners and slaves. Some indentures servants even revolted against being forced to eat the meat and the colony agreed that they would not be fed lobster meat more than three times a week.

As the American rail transportation system began to develop it made it easier for people to travel from state to state. Train workers realized that they could serve lobster to passengers because it was plentiful and cheap. Unaware of the negative stigma that was attached to these crustaceans, the passengers believed they were eating a decadent food and began requesting lobster even when they weren’t on the train.

Amazing how perspectives can change once you can make money from something.

10/09/2024

WE ARE A GENERATION THAT WILL NEVER COME BACK. A generation that walked to school and then walked back. A generation that did their homework alone to get out asap to play in the street. A generation that spent all their free time in the streets with their Friends. A generation that played hide and seek when dark. A generation that made mud cakes. A generation that collected sports cards. A generation that found, collected and washed & Returned empty coke bottles to the local grocery store for 5 cents each , then bought a Mountain Dew and candy bar with the money. A generation that made paper toys with their bare hands. A generation who bought vinyl albums to play on record players. A generation that collected photos and albums of clippings of their life experiences as a Kid. A generation that played board games and cards on rainy days. A generation whose TV went off at midnight after playing the National Anthem. A generation that had parents who were there. A generation that laughed under the covers in bed so parents didn't know we were still awake. A generation that is passing and unfortunately it will never return no matter how hard we try. I loved Growing up when I did. it was the best of times.

10/09/2024

Babe Ruth was seven years old when he was sent to St. Mary's Industrial School for Boys, a reformatory and orphanage. As a youth, he ran the streets, rarely attended school, and drank beer when his father was not looking. Some accounts say that following a violent incident at his father's saloon, the city authorities decided that this environment was unsuitable for a small child. When Ruth entered St. Mary's on June 13, 1902, he was recorded as "incorrigible" and spent much of the next 12 years there. He became a shirtmaker and was also proficient as a carpenter. He would adjust his shirt collars rather than having a tailor do so, even during his well-paid baseball career.

How Ruth came to play baseball there is uncertain: according to one account, his placement at St. Mary's was due in part to repeatedly breaking Baltimore's windows with long hits while playing street ball; by another, he was told to join a team on his first day at St. Mary's by the school's athletic director, Brother Herman, becoming a catcher even though left-handers rarely play that position. During his time there, he also played third base and shortstop, again unusual for a left-hander, and was forced to wear mitts and gloves made for right-handers.

Babe's Major League Baseball career spanned 22 seasons, from 1914 through 1935. He began as a star left-handed pitcher for the Boston Red Sox but achieved his greatest fame as a slugging outfielder for the New York Yankees.

Ruth is regarded as one of the greatest sports heroes in American culture and is considered by many as the greatest baseball player.

Born George Herman Ruth on February 6, 1895, in Baltimore, Maryland, and died on August 16, 1948, in New York City at 53.

10/09/2024

Nebraska, 1890...

Caption
Buffalo Bill and Ezra Meeker speaking to school children and towns people in eastern Nebraska...

Source
Howard R. Driggs Collection

10/09/2024

Sabine Weiss, a Swiss-born French photographer, is one of the most influential figures in the world of humanist photography. Her career spans over seven decades, during which she captured intimate, poignant moments that reflect the essence of everyday life. Born in 1924, Weiss's work is characterized by a deep empathy for her subjects, often portraying them in moments of vulnerability, joy, or quiet reflection. She became one of the leading figures of the humanist movement in photography, which sought to document the human condition with compassion and warmth, focusing on real people and their experiences.

Weiss moved to Paris in 1946, where she quickly became immersed in the city’s artistic and cultural scene. She began working as an assistant to the renowned fashion photographer W***y Maywald, but her real passion lay in documenting street life and the unvarnished realities of the world around her. Throughout the 1950s, she captured the streets of Paris, focusing on the daily lives of ordinary people—children playing, couples strolling, workers going about their routines. Her black-and-white images were simple yet evocative, imbued with a sense of timelessness and humanity that continues to resonate with viewers today.

What set Sabine Weiss apart was her ability to find beauty in the ordinary. She didn’t shy away from the grittier aspects of life, but instead embraced them, showing how these moments were just as important, if not more so, than the glamorous or idealized versions of life often portrayed in the media. Her work is a celebration of the small, fleeting moments that make up the fabric of everyday existence—whether it was a child’s laughter, an elderly person’s quiet contemplation, or the bustling energy of city streets.

Her photography was not limited to Paris alone. Weiss traveled extensively, capturing images in places like New York, Cairo, and India. No matter where she was, her work maintained the same humanistic focus, reflecting a genuine curiosity about the world and the people in it. She had a remarkable ability to connect with her subjects, regardless of their background or circumstance, which is why her images feel so authentic and emotionally rich.

Weiss's work has been exhibited worldwide, and she has received numerous accolades for her contributions to photography. While she is often associated with other great humanist photographers like Robert Doisneau and Henri Cartier-Bresson, Weiss’s work is uniquely her own. Her style is defined by its warmth, simplicity, and an unflinching commitment to capturing the truth of the human experience.

Even in her later years, Weiss continued to work, always seeking to find new ways to document the world. Her legacy is one of compassion and insight, reminding us of the power of photography to capture not just moments, but emotions, stories, and the shared human experience. Through her lens, Sabine Weiss showed that simplicity can indeed be beautiful, and that the most profound moments in life are often the quietest.

10/09/2024

Cape May, New Jersey in 1988

10/09/2024

Imagine the scene. It’s New York City in 1956, a small party in an apartment. Some are strangers to each other and there is a couple attracted to each other. The male is making jokes and the female laughs at them, increasing his interest in her. Suddenly someone drops a rum cake onto the floor and without batting an eyelid the two grab forks and eat the cake from the floor, laughing and eating.

There followed a date, a relationship and marriage. Today, after 67 years, three daughters and eight grand-children they are still happily married.

They were up and coming actor Alan Alda and a writer, musician and photographer Arlene Weiss. Arlene was to describe how she was surprised, and delighted, that he was interested in her. "It sure was fun and delightful to be with him that night. Boys from Manhattan didn't date girls from the Bronx. That was a given. It was too long of a trip. He took me home to the Bronx. Unheard of.”

A year after the marriage, in 1957, Alan appeared in his first tv show, The Phil Silvers Show. To celebrate the first cheque they bought a pizza. Thereafter, even up to today, whenever Alan gets a new job they celebrate with a pizza.

Today Alan is suffering from Parkinson’s Disease but says this has increased their bond. "We still a kind of puppy love. I really have never made plans for the future. My life is more of an improvisation. I just try to make the best of what's in front of me.”

Arlene herself is a successful children’s author with a couple of best sellers

So, if there’s anyone out there who feels lonely. Go to a party, drop a cake onto the floor, grab a fork and start

10/09/2024

Black Family Values
1. Exercise self-control; control tongues, thoughts, temper and actions.
2. Be thrifty.
3. Never ridicule or defile the character of another.
4. Keep your self-respect and help others to keep theirs.
5. Kindness; be kind in thoughts and never despise anyone.
6. Be kind in speech, never gossip or speak unkindly of others.
7. Good health is important. Keep yourself clean in body and mind.
8. Be self-reliant, but listen to the advice of wiser and older people.
9. Develop independence and wisdom.
10. Act according to what seems right and fair.
11. Never fear being laughed at for doing what is right.
12. Be brave. A coward does not make a good citizen.
13. Always play fair. Never cheat.
14. Always treat your opponents with courtesy.

10/09/2024

Rolling chairs on the Atlantic City boardwalk in the 1970s

10/09/2024

In 1956, Doris Day was at the height of her fame when she starred in Alfred Hitchcock’s thriller The Man Who Knew Too Much. Known for her charm, beauty, and vocal talents, Day was one of Hollywood’s brightest stars. However, it was during the production of this film that she would be introduced to a song that would forever change the course of her career: “Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be).”
Despite Day’s reputation as a successful recording artist, when Hitchcock and the film’s composer, Jay Livingston, presented her with “Que Sera, Sera,” she was initially reluctant to record the song. Day reportedly viewed it as a “forgettable children’s song,” believing it wasn’t suited for her typical style of music, which was more aligned with jazz, big band, and traditional pop standards. Her reservations were not without reason—up until that point, Day had built her career on songs that were more serious and sophisticated. The playful, sing-song nature of “Que Sera, Sera” didn’t fit into her image of what a hit song should be.
However, Hitchcock insisted that the song be featured in The Man Who Knew Too Much. In the film, Day plays the role of Jo McKenna, a mother whose son is kidnapped while she and her husband (played by James Stewart) are on vacation in Morocco. “Que Sera, Sera” plays a significant role in the plot, as Day’s character sings the song to reassure her son, and it later helps the family reunite. Despite Day’s initial skepticism, she recorded the song for the film, and it was included in a key scene that resonated deeply with audiences.
When The Man Who Knew Too Much was released, “Que Sera, Sera” quickly gained popularity. The song’s simple yet profound message—capturing the idea of accepting life’s unpredictability—struck a chord with listeners. It became a runaway hit, soaring to the top of the charts and solidifying its place in pop culture history. To Doris Day’s surprise, what she once dismissed as a children’s song became the biggest hit of her recording career.
In 1957, the song went on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song, further cementing its legacy. “Que Sera, Sera” became synonymous with Doris Day’s career, and she would go on to perform it in concerts and television appearances throughout her life. It also became a signature piece of music associated with her, one that transcended generations and still remains popular today.
Although Doris Day may have had her doubts about the song, her performance of “Que Sera, Sera” helped define her image as America’s sweetheart, combining her warm persona with a catchy, optimistic tune. The song, much like Day herself, became a symbol of an era—a time when films were filled with hope, charm, and unforgettable melodies.

10/09/2024

In the late 19th century, photography was transforming the way people preserved their memories and told their stories. Italy, with its rich cultural heritage and bustling cities like Naples, was a vibrant place where the art of photography began to flourish. Among the photographers capturing life in the country was A. de Simone, who specialized in studio portraits that often featured local children, like the barefoot young girl of Naples, holding a bird in her hands. Taken in the 1890s, this photograph not only reflects the innocence of childhood but also speaks volumes about the social conditions of the time.

During this era, Naples was a city of contrasts. It had its grand palazzos and piazzas, but it also faced deep poverty, with many families struggling to survive in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions. Children like the girl in this photograph were often from poor families, many of whom would never be able to afford fine clothes or the luxury of a professional portrait. In fact, it was common for studio photographers to lend costumes to their subjects, as seen with this girl, dressed in a borrowed outfit that would have been considered far above her usual station in life.

The bird she holds in her hand may have been symbolic, representing hope or freedom—two things that were often elusive for the lower classes in Naples at the time. Birds in 19th-century art and photography were often seen as representations of the soul or purity, a fitting complement to the innocence of the young girl. The fact that she is barefoot, however, grounds the image in reality. Despite the borrowed clothes and the carefully composed portrait, her bare feet hint at the harshness of life for children growing up in a struggling Naples.

Photographers like A. de Simone played a significant role in documenting life in cities like Naples, capturing not only the wealthy and powerful but also those who lived on the margins. These portraits were often intended for tourists or collectors, offering a glimpse of the "exotic" southern Italian life. To many outsiders, images of barefoot children or working-class figures were seen as representations of a romanticized, simpler way of life. However, for the subjects of these photographs, life was often far from romantic. The struggles of daily survival, long working hours, and limited opportunities were a reality for many children in Naples during the 1890s.

Studio photography was not cheap, and having one’s portrait taken was considered a luxury. This is why studio-lent costumes were common, as they allowed families to present themselves in a more refined and respectable manner, even if just for the duration of the photo session. The photographer's studio at Sirada di Chiapas 234 in Naples would have been a bustling place, where families, couples, and individuals could momentarily step into a world where they appeared wealthier or more polished than their everyday lives allowed.

The 1890s were a time of great change for Italy. The country was newly unified, and cities like Naples were grappling with the effects of industrialization, migration, and social upheaval. Many families, especially in the south, faced economic hardship as they tried to adjust to a rapidly changing world. For children like the girl in this photograph, the future was uncertain. Yet, through the lens of A. de Simone, her image endures, giving us a glimpse into a world long past and reminding us of the resilience of the human spirit.

10/09/2024

The Secret Garden (1949) stands as a charming adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett's beloved children's novel, a timeless tale that has enchanted audiences for generations. The film captures the essence of childhood wonder and the transformative power of nature, anchored by the performances of Brian Roper, Dean Stockwell, and Margaret O'Brien.

Set against the backdrop of an English manor in the early 20th century, the story follows Mary Lennox, a lonely and unloved girl who is sent to live with her uncle, Archibald Craven, after the death of her parents. As she explores the estate, she discovers a hidden, neglected garden that becomes the focal point of her journey towards healing and friendship. The film beautifully illustrates themes of resilience, growth, and the restorative power of love and friendship.

Margaret O'Brien shines as Mary Lennox, embodying the character’s initial bitterness and eventual transformation into a more open and caring individual. O'Brien, who was a child star of the time, brings depth and nuance to the role, showcasing her impressive acting chops in a story that resonates with both children and adults. Her portrayal captures Mary’s evolution as she learns to embrace the joys of life and friendship, particularly through her relationships with the other characters.

Dean Stockwell, playing Colin Craven, adds an emotional layer to the story as the invalid cousin of Mary. Colin’s character represents the themes of isolation and despair, and his journey toward health and happiness parallels Mary’s. Stockwell's performance is poignant, capturing the struggles and eventual triumphs of Colin as he learns to engage with the world around him. Together, O'Brien and Stockwell create a heartfelt bond that underscores the narrative's central themes of healing and connection.

Brian Roper, as the caring servant Dickon, completes this trio of childhood innocence and wonder. His character acts as a bridge between Mary and the natural world, embodying the spirit of nature and its healing qualities. Roper’s portrayal brings a sense of joy and warmth to the film, emphasizing the transformative effects of the garden on the lives of the children.

Directed by Alan Miller, The Secret Garden features stunning cinematography that captures the lush landscapes and intricate details of the garden itself. The visual storytelling complements the narrative, immersing viewers in the beauty and magic of nature, which serves as a critical element of the story. The film's aesthetic reflects the era’s style, showcasing the lavish costumes and set designs typical of classic Hollywood productions.

The adaptation remains true to Burnett's original novel while making necessary adjustments for cinematic storytelling. The film successfully conveys the core message of the story, emphasizing the importance of love, friendship, and the healing power of nature. The characters' journeys reflect the struggles and joys of childhood, resonating with audiences of all ages.

The Secret Garden also highlights the magic and wonder of childhood, portraying the innocence and imagination that often accompany it. The garden itself becomes a character in its own right, symbolizing growth, renewal, and the possibility of change. As the children nurture the garden, they also nurture their friendships and emotional well-being, creating a powerful narrative about connection and transformation.

In conclusion, The Secret Garden (1949) remains a cherished classic, showcasing the talents of Brian Roper, Dean Stockwell, and Margaret O'Brien in a heartwarming tale of resilience and friendship. The film’s enchanting visuals, strong performances, and timeless themes continue to captivate audiences, ensuring its place in the pantheon of classic Hollywood cinema. It serves as a reminder of the beauty of nature, the importance of human connection, and the transformative power of love and friendship.

10/09/2024

Elvis Presley, often referred to as the "King of Rock and Roll," had a profound impact on music and popular culture, and his iconic pink Cadillac stands as a symbol of his fame and flamboyant lifestyle. The photograph in question, believed to be from 1956, captures the essence of the era and Elvis's rising stardom, showcasing both his unique style and the luxury he embraced.

The pink Cadillac, specifically a 1956 Cadillac Eldorado, became one of Elvis's most recognizable cars, epitomizing the glitz and glamour of the 1950s. Known for its distinctive color and sleek design, the vehicle represented more than just a mode of transportation; it was a statement of wealth and individuality that mirrored Elvis's status as a cultural icon. The car was gifted to him by his manager, Colonel Parker, in an effort to promote his larger-than-life persona.

In 1956, Elvis was on the cusp of becoming a household name. With hits like "Heartbreak Hotel" and "Hound Dog," he captivated audiences with his unique sound, combining elements of rock, blues, and country music. This year marked a turning point in his career, as he transitioned from regional fame to national superstardom. His appearances on television, particularly on shows like "The Ed Sullivan Show," helped propel him into the limelight, making him a cultural phenomenon.

The pink Cadillac became a frequent subject in the media, further solidifying Elvis's image as a style icon. It symbolized the carefree and extravagant lifestyle that came with fame, drawing admiration from fans and non-fans alike. Elvis was often seen driving the car around Memphis and Los Angeles, adding to its legendary status. The vehicle not only highlighted his flamboyant personality but also served as a symbol of the American dream, representing the desire for success, freedom, and self-expression.

Elvis's love for cars extended beyond the pink Cadillac. He owned a fleet of luxury vehicles throughout his life, each reflecting his evolving style and status. However, the pink Cadillac remained a personal favorite, often associated with his playful and charismatic demeanor.

As time passed, the pink Cadillac became more than just a car; it evolved into a piece of pop culture history. Fans often sought replicas, and the vehicle was celebrated in various forms of media, from songs to documentaries. In 1967, Elvis famously sang about the car in his song "Pink Cadillac," further cementing its place in music history.

Today, the legacy of Elvis and his pink Cadillac endures. The car is often displayed in museums dedicated to Elvis's life and career, allowing fans to connect with the man behind the music. It serves as a reminder of a pivotal moment in American culture, where music, fashion, and personality converged to create a lasting impact that resonates to this day.

The photograph from 1956 not only captures a moment in time but also tells a story of ambition, talent, and the exhilarating rise of a young man who would go on to change the face of music forever. As Elvis continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans, the image of him alongside his pink Cadillac remains an enduring symbol of his legacy.