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Although the camera dates as far back in history as 1021 it didn’t have practical applications until the images it formed could be saved. This chemical process began in the early 1800’s when metal plates became available and by the 1850’s photography as we know it had come into practical use. The Civil War was the first time photographs of war and it’s soldiers were recorded for all to see.
Unlike today’s small, light weight cameras with dozens of features, photography in the mid 19th century was a definite skill and an art form. At Civil War re-enactments Wendell Decker has been plying his photographic trade for many years. Using the tried and true processes of the mid 19th century, Decker takes portraits, develops them on site and sells them to re-enactors.
About two years ago he became aware of a young lady interested in his work. And with the permission of her parents - Sarah Burns became Decker’s apprentice. We talked with Sarah at the 2010 Perryville on the Farm event. She has become totally captivated with early photography and would like to someday, like Decker own her own equipment.
Lenses from the time period still exist but are quite expensive. Most of the cameras were made of wood and have not survived, but Sarah is confident that she will be able to find someone to build her the “box” part of the camera. She is also exploring the idea of obtaining grant money to make her dream a reality.
Her learning time with Decker is limited - as it depends on when she and her family are at the same event as Decker. In the last few years they have managed this “apprentice/teacher” relationship at 3 to 4 events per year.
While we were at Perryville, we watched this young lady at work. Unlike today’s point and shoot cameras - Sarah had to position the camera, insert the plate, expose it (while we sat very, very still) and then develop it. She proudly showed us the plates (with her own name) scribed into the back.
And then in a crazy juxtaposition of time and reality - this 21st century girl, dressed in 19th century garb, took the photo (with a vintage camera) of two modern photojournalists, while we were holding our digital cameras, developed it, in a pan with photographic chemicals, varnished it and presented it to us - for use on something her Civil War ancestors could never have envisioned - a 21st century website!
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