An Early Philadelphia Photograph

The eerie-looking photo at right comes from Shorpy, “the 100 year old photo blog.” According to the site, this self-portrait of Robert Cornelius was taken in 1839 in Philadelphia.

On the back of the photo, the following note is inscribed: “The first light-picture ever taken.” Whoa! According to Wikipedia, though, Cornelius wasn’t a portrait-maker for all that long: “Cornelius would operate two of the earliest photographic studios in America between 1839 and 1843, but as the popularity of photography grew and more photographers opened studios, Cornelius either lost interest or realized that he could make more money at the family gas and lighting company.” As usual, big oil is making big profits. If only those people in the 19th century had Barack Obama to rescue them!

It makes sense that one of the first photographs ever taken would be from Philadelphia. It makes even more sense that the Philadelphian in the photo would look kinda pissed off in it.

First Ever Taken: 1839 [Shorpy]