In the early 1900s the growth of Houston was unbridled. Opportunity could be found around every corner of the bayou city and a host of individuals trying to find it. During The 1920s alone there was a building boom that lasted a decade giving local professional photographers plenty of work. Despite a crushing depression crippling the rest of the nation Houston would survive better than most. The photographs featured in this exhibit showcase the best of the best of commercial photography and photographers during the 1920s & 1930s. Using huge cameras that created an 8 x 10 inch black and white negative these skilled craftsmen captured day to day life in and around Houston with amazing clarity. Each image is a visual time capsule revealing an important part of our community’s historical past. 

 

The mechanical process of 19th and 20th century photography in the age of the digital world is viewed by some as an alternative form of art. No longer mainstream but back roomed only for use by purists who want to get their fingers wet with darkroom chemistry magic. This exhibit is the combination of large format black & white photography and computer technology as a means of breathing new life into decades old photographic compositions. The new generation digital darkroom is a valuable tool in the battle to preserve our fragile visual history. All images digitally scanned, restored, and printed by Mr. Sloane! 

 

Story Sloane III of Sloane Gallery co-authored the book “A Pictorial History of the Houston Fire Department 1985-1980 and has written over a hundred articles showcasing the positive aspects of Houston’s history. His great grandfather was Capt. Drew Campbell King of Station #7, the home of the Houston Fire Museum! Story has curated this exhibit to illustrate a visual presentation of what life was like in Houston during Capt. King's service to the community.

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