Between the Covers

Hardcover. Oblong quarto. Measuring 13" x 10". String-tied textured brown leather over stiff paper boards with "photographs" stamped on the front board. Contains 76 sepia toned or black and white gelatin silver photographs measuring between 3.5" x 3.5" and 8" x 10", with captions. Very good album with creasing on the corners, loose pages, and rubbing, with near fine photographs.

A photo album titled “Crippled Kiddies Committee of Rahway Lodge” compiled in the late 1920s through 1960. The photographs show portraits of handicapped children with a variety of conditions as well as images from outings they went on with the “committee” which was founded by the Elk's Lodge of Rahway, New Jersey. Also featured throughout are newspaper clippings about the handicapped community including events held for them as well as handwritten letters and invitations to events. The portrait photographs include typed captions with the name and personal information about the patient. “[Name Withheld], Blanchard Avenue, Avenel, N.J. – congenital dislocation of left hip 3-1/2” short. Manipulation of left hip. Application of mole skin traction. Operation May 17, 1927.” Later in the album there are larger photos from excursions the “kiddies” went on to amusement parks, beaches, and miniature golf courses. They visited Olympic Park, the Old Mill, and Midland Beach with photos of groups of children and counselors posed in front of each place. They also visited the Rahway Lodge and lodge members are seen posed with the kids who are wearing fezzes, along with the lodge members. One newspaper article reads, “handicapped children of Rahway will benefit directly from proceeds of a Valentine Dance to be held February 15 by the Elks Club according to George Marhak, dance committee chairman.” The album follows the organization through the 1960s with photos, newspaper clippings, and other ephemera detailing the goings on of the group. The album ends with a letter from the Children’s Specialized Hospital thanking the committee for televisions that were donated for the children’s entertainment.

An interesting album following a charitable endeavor over 40 years.

Item #412814