Blackface Theater. Young Women and Children of Vaudeville photographs by Frank Wendt

There are numerous studies and photographs of blackface in the American theater, but it is a bit less common to see women…and I guess even more unusual to see young women and children.  A series of cabinet card photographs circa 1910 of young vaudeville performers in burnt cork.  These were essentially among the first "publicity photographs" and sold at the stage door following performances.
 
Original cabinet card photographs by Frank Wendt circa 1910  (Wendt was the understudy of Chas Eisenmann, famed circus freak photographer.)
 
Collection Jim Linderman

The Clark Brothers of Chautaugua County Present a "Washer Woman" on Parade

For a time, the Clark Brothers pharmacy was the largest drug store in Chautaugua County.  Needless to say, according to the History of Chautaugua County by John Phillips Downs, "Politically, Mr. Clark is a staunch Republican..."  Who is playing the part of the washer woman is unknown.

Real Photo Postcard circa 1900 collection Jim Linderman