Rower c. 1860s

Chandler Seaver Jr. made this albumen print of a rower at an unknown date. As photography became more accessible in the mid-19th century, it played an important role in shaping cultural ideas about recreation and leisure. This image is more than just a snapshot; it reflects the values and pastimes of the rising middle class. The rower in his skiff presents an idealized image of leisure, but it also implies social class. Rowing was becoming a popular recreational activity, especially among elite college students. The other sailboats in the background speak to the economic vitality of the pictured town. Is this photograph an attempt to democratize access to leisure, or is it about capturing the cultural capital of the upper classes? To better understand the social context, historians consult archives, newspapers, and club records. These resources help reveal the complex ways in which art reflects and shapes our understanding of society.