African American workers doing laundry at the Bureau of Engraving & Printing, c1895. Creator: Frances Benjamin Johnston. African American workers doing laundry at the Bureau of Engraving & Printing, c1895. Creator: Frances Benjamin Johnston

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African American workers doing laundry at the Bureau of Engraving & Printing, c1895. Creator: Frances Benjamin Johnston. African American workers doing laundry at the Bureau of Engraving & Printing, c1895. Creator: Frances Benjamin Johnston

African American workers doing laundry at the Bureau of Engraving & Printing, c1895

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Media ID 36275899

© Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Appliance Bureau Of Engraving Printing Cyanotypes 1890 1900 Gmgpc Domestic Domestic Appliance Household Household Appliance Laundry Machine Machinery Washing Afro American Fb Johnston Frances B Johnston Frances Benjamin Johnston Frances Johnston Johnston Frances Benjamin Washing Machine

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> North America > United States of America > Washington, District of Columbia

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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, titled "African American workers doing laundry at the Bureau of Engraving & Printing, c1895," is a poignant snapshot of history captured by the renowned American photographer Frances Benjamin Johnston. The image depicts a group of African American men diligently working in the laundry room of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, located in Washington D.C., United States of America. The men are seen gathered around large vats, their faces focused as they wash and rinse the heavy fabrics. In the background, a washing machine and other household appliances are visible, evidence of the evolving technology of the time. The photograph is significant for its portrayal of African American labor during the late 19th century. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing, an agency of the United States Federal Government, was responsible for producing currency and securities for the country. The presence of African American workers in this setting is a testament to their integral role in the American workforce, despite the widespread discrimination and segregation that was prevalent during this period. Frances Benjamin Johnston, an accomplished artist and photographer, captured this image using the cyanotype process, a popular photographic technique of the late 19th century. The resulting black-and-white image is a powerful reminder of the past, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of African American workers and the role they played in the nation's history. This photograph is now part of the prestigious collections at the Library of Congress, a national treasure that preserves the heritage and art of the United States.

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