Photograph
Frederick & Nelson elevator operators, circa 1955
Order an ImageSeattle's Frederick & Nelson department store was proud of its customer service. When its new building opened in 1918, the store had eight elevators, each run by its own operator. By the 1940s, the job of elevator operator had become a popular part-time job for high school girls. F&N hired girls who were slim, dark-haired, and didn't wear glasses. Some young women dyed their hair to get the job.
In this photo, ten Frederick & Nelson elevator operators pose in their identical dark dresses and pumps.
Caption information source: "More Than a Store," by Robert Spector, 1990.
In this photo, ten Frederick & Nelson elevator operators pose in their identical dark dresses and pumps.
Caption information source: "More Than a Store," by Robert Spector, 1990.
ID Number: 1993.43.20.27.1
Date: Circa 1955
Creator(s):
Lockman, Marshall, Photographer
Physical Description: 1 photographic print : b&w ; 7.75 x 9.75 in.
Additional Information: Digital copy of this item available thanks to funding from a 2016 Institute for Museum and Library Services grant. Metadata updated as part of a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services administered by the Library Services and Technology Act, through the Washington State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State.
View the finding aid for this collection at https://archiveswest.orbiscascade.org/ark:80444/xv72858
View the finding aid for this collection at https://archiveswest.orbiscascade.org/ark:80444/xv72858
Credit: MOHAI, Frederick & Nelson Records, 1993.43.20.27.1, photo by Marshall Lockman
Copyright: All Rights Reserved