Races, Negroes: United States. Virginia. Hampton. Hampton Normal and Industrial School: Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute, Hampton, Va.: Hampton exstudents and their children. 1899 - 1900

Editor: We're looking at "Races, Negroes: United States. Virginia. Hampton. Hampton Normal and Industrial School..." a vintage photograph of a family. It has such a formal, posed quality. What strikes you about this image? Curator: It’s a portrait, yes, but it whispers stories. Look at the pride etched on their faces, the delicate dolls held by the children. It speaks of aspiration, of a community striving for education and a better future at Hampton Institute. Imagine the weight of history, the hope in their eyes. The way they’ve carefully chosen their attire for the camera. Doesn't it make you wonder about their dreams? Editor: I do! I hadn't thought about what the image can tell us about this family. Curator: Exactly! It's more than just a picture; it’s a portal.