Abstract

The Grand Rapids Public Library cyanotypes collection is a devised collection containing cyanotype images. The images include views of Grand Rapids, Michigan, houses, house interiors, John Ball Park and the 1900 break in the city's water reservoir. The collection also contains a set of 56 images of vehicles manufactured by the Couple Gear Company.

Abstract

The Grand Rapids Public Library Glass Plate Negatives Collection contains 40 glass plate negatives, with the bulk of the items showing various people, accompanied also by some places. Many of the portraits are copy negatives from original cabinet cards. Both the date and photographer are unknown. People of note include the following governors: John J. Bagley; Kinsley S. Bingham; Austin Blair; John T. Rich; and, Arthur St.Clair, Hazen S. Pingree.

Abstract

This collection includes reproductions of images produced on plain paper as a laser photocopy or a digital print. The images are reproductions of material loaned to the library or held in other collections. The images are generally limited to the geographic areas of Grand Rapids and Kent County, Michigan.

Abstract

This collection contains images of Native Americans, their housing, schools, church and crafts from the first two decades of the twentieth century. This is a devised collection that was drawn together from various sources by subject matter. The source of these images has not been documented. The collection also contains the much duplicated series of "before" and "after" photos of students at the Carlisle Indian School in 1886.

Abstract This collection contains approximately 160 images of downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan during a period of urban renewal. During 1979 and 1980 staff members from the Grand Rapids Public Library's Audio-Visual Department set about to visually document the urban renewal landscape. The images were photographed, and 4x5 negatives were provided. Subsequently, 8x10 photographic prints or contact prints were made from these negatives. The images depict the downtown area, buildings being...

Abstract

A Grand Rapids Sampler is a book written by Gordon L. Olson, former Grand Rapids City Historian, for the Grand Rapids Historical Commission in 1972. This collection documents the publication of the book. It includes reference images of photographs used in the book and papers relating to the book.

Abstract

The city of Grand Rapids, Michigan celebrated its sesquicentennial (150th) birthday on April 5, 1988. A week-long celebration was held, including programs, exhibitions, an antique car show, a 5k run/walk, children's games, an old-style fashion show and dedication of a sesquicentennial tree. This collection includes approximately 60 images taken during the celebration. The images are snapshots and show events as well as billboards and signs posted around the city.

Abstract

This collection contains photographs used for the Grandville Star Newspaper from the mid-1960s to 1970. The photographs are predominantly identified, individual portrait-style images that range from local members of the community and store owners to local politicians and celebrities.

Abstract Harry P. Symes (1918-1997) was the owner of an advertising firm and publisher of the Grand Rapids Visitor. This collection includes images that Symes appears to have collected, as well as images relating to his advertising work. The 88 glass negatives depict scenes of Grand Rapids, Michigan during the first two decades of the 20th century. Additionally, 21 postcards give views of such locations as John Ball Park, Monroe Avenue, North Park, hospitals and the post office. Also, 32 oversized...

Abstract Harry Wesslund (July 22, 1912 - September 23, 1985) was an artist and designer in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He worked in the display departments of Wurzburgs and Herpolsheimers before starting his own company, Custom Displays, Inc. Wesslund designed many displays and graphics for a number of local and regional companies. He is credited as being the “father” of the Wood Radio and TV mascot “Willy Wood.”This collection includes photographs of displays created by Wesslund, including...