This collection was gifted to me by my Grandmother Clementha. She was a caregiver of Black Hollywood actresses Mildred Boyd, Mona Boyd and Mildred Washington. The Items given to her consists of original photographic prints, including studio prints and cabinet cards, dating from approximately 1900 to 1960. The photographs depict African American actors, actresses, and performers from the Black Vaudeville era through early Hollywood, representing an important period in American cultural and cinematic history. The photographs were produced by professional photography studios of the period, with several examples bearing studio stamps, imprints, or handwritten attributions. Select pieces are signed by the sitters or photographers, further enhancing their historical and collectible significance. Materials include vintage photographic paper and card-mounted cabinet cards typical of early 20th-century studio portraiture. Condition varies by piece and is consistent with age. Some photographs exhibit light surface wear, minor edge wear, or toning, while others remain well-preserved with strong image clarity. No modern reproductions are present; all items are believed to be original period prints. This collection offers rare visual documentation of African American performers whose contributions shaped Vaudeville, theater, and early film, and is well-suited for collectors, institutions, archives, or museums specializing in photography, African American history, or performing arts.
Varios sizes from 8 X10 and smaller and sme larger.