Published by Wadds Bros, Nelson, BC, 1900
Mounted Photograph. Condition: Near Fine. A circa 1900 mounted photo of a group of men centered around the building blocks of their beliefs (Charity, Hope, Faith, Truth, Love, Friendship & Purity) and dressed in the fraternal garb of the Nelson, B.C., Independent Order of Odd Fellows, a fraternal order founded in the UK in the 18th century and in Canada in the 19th century. Photo measures 7.25 x 9.25 inches wide, and is mounted onto a 10.25 x 15.5 inch wide mount, blind stamped along lower edge "Wadds Bros. Vancouver and Nelson, B.C." Photo w. a rub near center, mount w. minor stains, toning and a crease at lower right corner, verso w. pencil caption "Smith Family / 2 Brothers in front". We date this photo circa 1900, as the Wadds Bros. operated their studio in Nelson from 1892 to 1905, when they stopped advertising in the business directory. An interesting image, capturing the inner circle of a Kootenay Fraternal group in their fine regalia and vestments. Ref. Camera Workers, 1858-1950 by David Mattison.