Historic Hood River
“Early Pioneer”
Notes
This image has the caption “Early Pioneer” on the reverse in ink, then a pencil inscription which is barely discernible against the gray matte board. The best I can do with the scan is “Billie Coal” but I’m very unsure about the last name.
This is a good example of why you keep the original as well as the scan. While the “gray on gray” may not be readable, the original should show enough of an indentation by the pencil to read the last name. We’re reorganizing the Photo Cave at the museum so I can’t quite get to the original right now, but I’ll verify this name as soon as I can.
I think this image really captures downtown Hood River circa 1900. The wood building, simple architecture, stack of firewood and unpaved streets all speak to life in that era.
Of course the real star of the image is the dog next to Billie C. He looks a little like Sammy to me. Perhaps Sammy had a long lineage in Hood River?
Dale Nicol
I am guessing this is a bad dog with it’s muzzle!
BethH
Ankle biter
L. E.
Looks like Oak firewood stacked on the porch.
Do you have a recommendation of how to label photos? Old and new?
What kind of pen, pencil, label?
jnails
Is that snow in the foreground?
Pat A
Terrier, a real Rascal.
Rat killer, I have one. Very useful serious protector of the homestead!
Arthur Babitz
LE, my recommendation would be to use a felt tip archival ink pen. You can get them at any art supply store (the one on Oak Street next to Dog River Coffee carries them). The ink won’t fade, and it won’t emboss the photo the way a ball point pen will.