African Americana

2 1/8 x 3 5/8 in. CDV on cardstock mount (rich tonality, some toning throughout, lower left edge of image coming loose from mount). Verso with Wilson's pictorial imprint and ink inscription reading, "Chimney Sweeps / Savannah."

Cleaning chimneys was a necessity but a difficult occupation often performed by children as they were better able to navigate cramped chimneys. These three young sweeps, without shoes to better maneuver in the sooty environment, are wearing dark hats and work clothes, while posing with their tools. 

Wilson (1827-1897) moved to Savannah from New York in 1865 and worked there as a photographer until his death in 1897. This image was taken at the location of his first studio at Broughton & Whitaker, which was in operation from 1866-1876. He is known for capturing vistas around Savannah, as well as occupational portraits and sympathetic portrayals of African Americans during Reconstruction.