JEFFERSON - In 1960, a large trove of glass plate negatives from a Jefferson photography studio was discovered. The images had been taken by Newton and Myra Dibble, photographers who documented Jefferson and the surrounding area in the early 1900s.
The couple originally came from the hamlet of Eminence, near the boundaries of Jefferson, Summit, and Blenheim. In 1903, they moved to Jefferson and opened a photography studio. About 300 of their glass plate negatives resurfaced this year and were photographically copied and converted into positive digital images by the Jefferson Historical Society.
The Dibbles created portraits and photographed local homes, farms, buildings, and scenery. They also produced numerous postcards, ranging from views of general local interest to images of individual homes and families. In addition, they created stereo photographs, which produced a three-dimensional effect when viewed through a stereoscope.
Newton and Myra also became active members of the Jefferson community. Newton sang in the Jefferson Methodist Church choir and at times served as its leader, while Myra was the church organist. Both taught Sunday School, continuing an activity they had begun while living in Eminence. Newton also served as a church trustee and treasurer.
Newton served on the Board of Fire Commissioners and the Board of Education, eventually becoming president of the school board. Myra served as second vice president of Jefferson’s Epworth League, while Newton was its secretary and treasurer. Newton also helped organize Jefferson’s Fourth of July celebrations, serving on the Decorations and Fireworks Committees.
The Jefferson Historical Society will showcase the work of the Dibble Studio with a special photography exhibit at Judd Hall, 163 Main Street, Jefferson.
An opening reception will be held Friday, October 2, from 4 to 6 p.m. The exhibit will continue Saturday, October 3, and Sunday, October 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days.
The exhibit is free and open to the public.
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The featured image is a portrait of Eloise Wood taken in 1908.
