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.

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).

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.