Alexandria, La. W.F., 1914.
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Unbound. 30 comic racist Postcards. Measuring 3½" x 5½". Most are in nice condition. Divided backs with photographer's backstamp. Complete. All 30 cards are captioned and numbered from 1-30.
Complete set of what were intended as comic illustrations that have been turned into postcards that depict an African American's time in the United States Navy. The first card titled 'Inspiration' shows a man eating watermelon looking at an enlistment poster. The cards that follow show his trip to the recruiting office, his time in basic training, and his time on a boat. The final card shows the sailor receiving his discharge papers. In between the sailor is shown performing jobs on the ship, being seasick, attending a bullfight, and shooting a rifle in Cuba.
An interpretation of the daily monotony of an enlisted African American man in the United States Navy in the early 20th Century. The name of the "subject" may be John Johnson - in one of the captions he is referred to as Johnson and in another one, mail is being handed out and the name 'Yawn Yawnson!' is being called. .
Item #445794
