John Carbutt at Minnehaha Falls, part 2

Mollie Carbutt standing between Edward L. Wilson, left, and Mrs. Wilson. Note that the bridge is not in good repair.
Mollie Carbutt standing between Edward L. Wilson, left, and Mrs. Wilson. Note that the bridge is not in good repair.

Chicago’s John Carbutt took this picture of his wife and Mr. and Mrs. Edward L. Wilson in October 1866, and it’s interesting for several reasons.  That very first bridge across the creek is in terrible condition with obvious broken railings.  It’s now a few years old.

But look at Mollie Carbutt.

Here’s a woman, at the very dawn of photography, who knew how to get her picture taken.  She is 22 years old and she has mastered the art of “look pleasant, please.”  In contrast, Mrs. Wilson is fussing with her buttons and seems unaware of the camera.


 

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