by African American, Prisoners
[African American] [Prisoners] Photo archive of early chain gangs and prisoners being forced to work, mostly of African Americans. Archive contains 3 photographs: one silver gelatin photograph measuring 7.25" x 10" from the 1950s, and 2 real photo postcards, one black and white, one sepia toned, both measuring 3.5" x 5.25" from the early 1900s. The larger silver gelatin photograph features African American prisoners in 1950s style black and white striped prison jumpsuits, with chains around their ankles and connected to their hands. Several of the inmates are pushing wheelbarrows, while a white man drives next to them on a large tractor. Other inmates are using axes to drive stakes into the ground, possibly building a railroad or other means of transportation. The black and white real photo postcard has the caption: "Road Builders Grand Prize Automobile Course in Savannah Georgia" on the bottom of the image. Several Black convicts can be seen digging with shovels in the dirt. They are wearing black and white striped prison uniforms and chains can be seen connecting their feet. A white man on a horse can be seen in the background monitoring the work. The sepia toned real photo postcard is estimated to be from 1910 and features several prisoners working and digging, many of them holding shovels. A guard can be seen on the right next to an old automobile, holding a shotgun. All photos are original and vintage and remain in very good condition, offering a glimpse on early prison life and chain gang work for incarcerated individuals, especially African Americans.
(Inventory #: 20468)