This original vintage real photo postcard presents a formal group portrait associated with the Salvation Army, photographed in Kingston, Jamaica, likely in the late 1910s to early 1920s. The image shows five individuals posed in a studio setting: three Salvation Army officers seated in the foreground, with two women standing behind them. Four of the workers are wearing uniforms. The Salvation Army uniforms are clearly identifiable by the distinctive “S” collar insignia, confirming the religious and missionary context of the photograph. Group portraits such as this were commonly made to commemorate postings, service assignments, or transfers within the organization, and were often mailed or retained as keepsakes. Of particular historical interest is the inclusion of a Black woman standing at right, very likely a native of Jamaica, reflecting the Salvation Army’s active presence among local communities during the colonial period. Her dignified posture and inclusion within the group provide an important visual record of race, religion, and social structure in early 20th-century Jamaica. My research reveals that this photograph was taken by a Kingston, Jamaica photography studio operated by J. W. Cleary and E. W. Elliott. A handwritten notation on the reverse reads identifies one of the Salvation Army officers as a Staff Captain. The captains name is illegible. This postcard is in good vintage condition. Please note that it exhibits a noticeable curvature and does not lie flat, a common issue with early real photo postcards due to age and paper characteristics. There is light corner wear. The image remains clear and well-defined, with strong facial detail (see scans).
This cabinet card is available for purchase at my store, The History Peddler, for $24.00 at auction.
Interested collectors may view the listing here:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/236535078009
THE CABINET CARD GALLERY 
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