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. (SOLD)
This vintage real photo postcard features a lovely uniformed Salvation Army couple. Note the man and woman’s “S” pin worn on their collars. The woman’s wire rimmed glasses are similar to the wire rims in style today. The Salvation Army was established in 1865. It began in London, England. Today, the Christian charitable organization has 1.7 million (Salvationists) in 131 nations. The “AZO” stamp box on the reverse of this photo postcard indicates that it was published sometime between 1910 and 1930. The image is a studio photo. This postcard portrait is in excellent condition (see scans).
THE CABINET CARD GALLERY 