Stoomlocomotief before 1871

This photograph, "Stoomlocomotief," was taken by George Gardner Rockwood, though the exact date remains unknown. Rockwood lived through a period of immense technological advancement, and his work often reflected the changing landscapes of American life. This image captures a steam locomotive, a symbol of progress and industrialization, but it also speaks volumes about labor, class, and the shifting dynamics of the era. The locomotive represents not just movement, but also the displacement and transformation of communities. It invokes the massive infrastructure projects that often relied on exploited labor, particularly that of immigrant workers. Consider the emotional impact of this image. It's a celebration of innovation, but also a reminder of the costs and consequences of such rapid development. It encourages us to think about who benefitted from this progress, and at whose expense.