June brings new life and spirit as the month warms what was once an icy world. With this new vigor our energy turns to our family history, sweeping away cobwebs and dust from hibernating boxes full of memories.
While these memories are still, they captured an era busy with change. As you glimpse through your ancestor’s photographs, which of these nine things have you learned about their everyday life?
1) They Walked Many of the Same Paths We Did
How many times have you crossed a road and wondered if a deceased relative walked the very same road? These photographs merge together the past with the present in a beautiful manner thanks to fashion director, Nick Sullivan.
2) They Worked Hard to Support Themselves
A simple cup of tea is better appreciated as you scroll through the documented stages of production photographed by T. Enami. What photos have you seen or taken that demonstrate simple tasks of every-day life?
3) They Were Enchanted by Many of the Same Things We Are
Furniture pieces, artwork, and toys were prized possessions that we may still have in common with them. What have you learned from the background details in rooms? This one might tell you the story of an actress who became a muse for Giovanni Boldini.
4) They Found Beauty in Nature
Our love for the outdoors: fragrant flowers, soft pine bristles, and wispy clouds are things that are passed down as an escape from everyday life. These photos were commissioned by Albert Kahn who wanted to begin documenting photos in color.
5) They Made Friends With Others as They Journeyed
Traveling is easier when you have friends nearby. What can you learn from this era? These photos were shared by the New York Public Library and show Egypt from 1870-1875.
6) They Fought Battles
“In a two-week cascade of conflict, tens of thousands of men were killed and wounded on both sides. Most people who walk by it have no idea what played out underneath that tree.” —John Hennesy. Whether we fight physical or mental battles, we are descendants of survivors. What battles do your photos show you’ve fought? These interactive photos will give you a good idea of what life was like during the Civil War.
7) They Bonded With Animals
While human relationships are important, many have soft spots for their four-legged companions. Do your photos have horses? Cats? Ferrets? This photo shows a man surrounded by dogs in Istanbul.
8) They Felt Pride in Where They Lived
Who doesn’t get a bit of nostalgic pride when they’ve travelled for a while and finally see the first glimpse of home? Old photographs showing landscapes prove our ancestor’s love for their nation.
9) They Had Many of the Same Hobbies We Did
From drawing to dancing, many of the activities we do were taught to us by our parents—who in turn were taught theirs. What interests do you share with your ancestors? This family was skiing at Ab Ali; the first ski resort in Iran to install lifts.
