Embark on a global journey through time, capturing significant moments; from a mistletoe kiss amidst a war, to the historic construction of the Statue of Liberty, to a scenic arrival by sternwheeler, the search for love, vibrant New York streets, and genius in motion. Delve into moments of cultural importance, brave female pioneers, and unique, forgotten slices of everyday life.
Mistletoe Kiss in Gas Masks (1940)
In 1940 England, amidst WWII, couples would wear gas masks while kissing under the mistletoe. This peculiar tradition reflected a blend of wartime fear and holiday spirit, showcasing resilience and love in the face of adversity.
Statue of Liberty Construction (1884)
The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France, was constructed in separate pieces in France itself before being disassembled, shipped to the US, and reassembled on Liberty Island in 1884. Its copper skin is only 2 pennies thick.
Sternwheeler Arrival (1886)
In 1886, sternwheelers navigated Florida’s Silver Springs, vital transport for goods, people, and mail, symbolizing the era’s advances in travel and communication while shaping the economic and physical landscape of the region.
Seeking Wives (1901)
In 1901, Montana frontiersmen in the United States notably availed an engaging advertisement in search of wives to join them in their journey of taming the wild West.
Street Scene, New York (1970)
Circa 1970, New York City streets pulsed with life, reflecting the vibrancy and diversities of the era, from iconic yellow taxis to street musicians, and towering skyscrapers.
Einstein’s California Ride (1933)
In 1933, Albert Einstein was photographed riding a bicycle in California. The iconic candid image encapsulates his love for simple pleasures and his famous quote “Life is like riding a bicycle.”
Indian Student in Dresden (1951)
In February 1951, an Indian student made history as the first of his countrymen to arrive in Dresden, East Germany. He ventured to further his studies in Electrical Engineering at Dresden Technical University.
Miss NASA with RL-10 (1968/1969)
In 1968/1969, “Miss NASA”, crowned at a beauty pageant, posed with the RL-10 rocket engine – the first liquid hydrogen-oxygen engine, embodying the blend of technology and popular culture prevalent during the Space Race era.
Gandhi’s Belongings (1948)
At his death in 1948, Mahatma Gandhi’s possessions were minimal, reflecting his belief in simplicity. They included his set of slippers, wooden khadau, and two wooden bowls with spoons. His commitment to self-sufficiency and non-materialism.
Coney Island Elephants (1905)
Coney Island, 1905, was popular for its remarkable spectacle ‘Elephants on Parade’. These majestic creatures, marching in organized lines, attracted throngs of spectators, turning it into an iconic event.
Matthew Stirling (1938)
Matthew Stirling, chief of the Smithsonian Bureau of American Ethnology, led eight National Geographic-sponsored expeditions to Tabasco and Veracruz in Mexico. He uncovered 11 colossal stone heads, evidence of the ancient Olmec civilization that had lain buried for 15 centuries, 1938.
Junko Tabei, Everest Summit (1975)
Despite societal restraints, Junko Tabei defied gender stereotypes in 1975 by becoming the first woman to conquer Everest. She continued her record-breaking streak by climbing the highest peaks in 70 countries.
Pilot Tea Serve (1945)
In 1945, a canteen worker offered tea to a Sikorsky R-4 pilot at the RAF Helicopter School, Andover, marking a humble moment amidst the groundbreaking invention and production of the world’s first mass-produced helicopter during World War II.
Betel Nut Drying (1938)
In 1938, George Town, Malaysia was bustling with the activity of betel nut drying, a critical process in its cultivation. These nuts have cultural, medicinal and economic significance in the area.
Texaco Station Galveston (1927)
The Texas Company’s (Texaco) station in Galveston, ca. 1927, represented an early example of corporate branding, with its distinct architecture and vibrant signage becoming iconic symbols of the emerging automobile culture in 20th century America.
Roland Garros Altitude Record (1911)
On 4 September 1911, the French aviator Roland Garros soared to new heights, setting a world record. He climbed to an astonishing 3,950 m (12,960 ft), showcasing the untapped potential of early aviation technology.
Congressional Baseball Game (1917)
The 1917 Congressional Baseball Game began a tradition of fostering camaraderie among US politicians. Despite political divisions, they united in friendly competition, symbolizing bipartisan cooperation. Interestingly, future president Herbert Hoover participated in this game.
China Train Riders (1988)
In 1988, China’s trains, notorious for hard seats and overcrowding, symbolized vast urban-rural income disparity. However, they facilitated unprecedented inter-regional mobility, contributing to the country’s economic modernization journey.
Dik-Dik in Mombasa (1909)
In 1909, flourishing Kenyan youth, specifically females, were captured in Mombasa cherishing the presence of a Dik-Dik, a petite and unique species of antelope native to the region.
Tiny London Shoe Store (1900s)
In 1900s, the smallest shop in London was a 1.2 square meter shoe store. It was owned by a shoe salesman, illustrating the resourcefulness amidst tight urban spaces and spotlighting the unique charm of historical London retail culture.
