Every Friday The Psychogenealogist shares a "Pic of the Week." The intent is to encourage thought and imagination about the spaces where psychology, genealogy, and history converge.
This week's photograph is of a young boy sitting barefoot on the porch wearing a helmet of some sort. I obtained the photo from a random lot of vintage photos off of eBay.
"Kaiser Geo. ?? 1921"
The text says "Kaiser Geo." and gives a date of 1921. A last name appears to be included but I can't make it out. Can you?
What I like about this photo is the playful notation. This boy is clearly not a German Emperor. But, he is wearing a helmet in the style of the German "Pickelhaube" spiked helmet during the 1800s and early 1900s (see below).
A reproduction officer’s helmet, circa 1914. (Image source: MilitaryHistoryNow.com)
Questions:
Who is this boy and what is his story?
There appears to be a woman standing, back turned, partially visible, inside the door. Is this his mother?
Who is taking the picture?
What did this boy know about World War I which presumably ended only a few years, before this photo was taken?
How do wars and social factors influence the play and imagination of young children at different points in history?
What are some of your favorite "costumed" photos you have of your ancestors?
Do you have an old photograph or a genealogical story that you would like to share? I am happy to consider guest submissions for possible Pic of the Week or other blog posts in the future. Send an email to info@psychogenealogist.com for more information.
Chalmer Peters (1898-1980), his wife Gretta, and friends of McDowell County, West Virginia at an unknown store.