Historical Portrait
A composite photograph of one private from each of the twenty-nine divisions that went into combat in France At right and left recognition insignia of the combat divisions, which embraced the 92nd mad
Archive record
1 photograph : gelatin silver print ; sheet 35 x 27 cm, mount 51 x 41 cm | Composite photograph shows portraits of World War I combat soldiers from regiments who fought in France, including the segregated 92nd Division of Black soldiers.
About this photograph
This composite photograph was made three years after the armistice, bringing together portraits of twenty-nine soldiers representing each division that saw combat in France during the First World War. The archive record notes that these include a soldier from the segregated 92nd Division of Black soldiers.
The format reflects a widespread practice during and after the war. The United States entered the conflict in April 1917, and Selective Service registered around 24 million men. Local studios photographed enlistees in uniform before they left for training or overseas service. Many portraits were made so families could keep a copy at home, and county historical collections now hold thousands of these images, often the only formal photograph a young man ever sat for.
The photographer is listed as Walter Conger Harris. The divisional insignia appear at left and right, though the title breaks off mid-sentence.
Compiled from the catalogue record and reference notes on the formats and events involved. The archive record above is the primary source.
About the format
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