Lyons Township High School J.T. Berg: A Legacy in Photography

The Lyons Township High School J.T. Berg collection at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania is a treasure trove of photographic history, providing valuable insight into the lives and experiences of people from the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Located within the Philadelphia Record Photograph Morgue (Collection V07), this series consists of tens of thousands of black and white photographs published by the Philadelphia Record newspaper. The collection is divided into two main categories: Alphabetical and Subject, with a small portion of photographs categorized under the Subject heading.

The Alphabetical series, comprising approximately 80% of the collection, provides a detailed description to the folder level, each representing an individual or family. This approach allows researchers to easily locate specific images and gain a deeper understanding of the people featured in them. The remaining 20% of the collection is classified under the Subject heading, with descriptions provided at the box level.

The Subject series covers a wide range of events, from domestic to global, offering valuable insights into historical occurrences that shaped the world. Photographs within this category have been arranged chronologically and topically, making it easier for researchers to locate specific images related to their area of interest.

One notable aspect of this collection is its association with the Philadelphia Record newspaper, a publication known for its Democratic party affiliations. The paper's history dates back to 1877, when it was first established as the Pennsylvania Gazette and Daily Advertiser. Over time, the paper underwent several changes in ownership, with J.T. Berg acquiring the publication in 1894.

Under Berg's leadership, the Philadelphia Record experienced significant growth and became one of the most widely circulated newspapers in the United States. However, its success was short-lived, as economic challenges and increased competition led to a decline in readership. By the time Rodman Wanamaker purchased the paper in 1928, the newspaper's circulation had begun to dwindle.

Despite this decline, the Philadelphia Record remained an influential publication until its eventual closure in 1947. The J.T. Berg collection serves as a testament to the power of photography in capturing historical events and telling the stories of everyday people.

In conclusion, the Lyons Township High School J.T. Berg collection is a valuable resource for anyone interested in photographic history, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of individuals from across the United States during a pivotal period in American history. Its arrangement and categorization provide an easy-to-use framework for researchers, making it an essential tool for scholars and historians alike.

Lyons township high school j.t. berg