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Photograph

Al, Izzy, and Butch Smith at home, Seattle, circa 1948

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Albert Joseph "Al" Smith, Sr. (1916-2008), was a photographer and prolific chronicler of life in Seattle's Central Area during the mid- to late-20th century. From a hobby begun as a preteen, Mr. Smith began his "weekend job" and photography business, On the Spot, in the 1940s, capturing life in the city’s Black community, the Central Area neighborhood, and the local jazz scene.

Here, Al, his wife “Izzy” (Isabelle Donaldson Smith) and their son “Butch” (Al Smith, Jr.), sit on the rug in the living room of their Central Area home. Izzy talks on the phone; she and Butch cradle their calico cat.
ID Number: 2014.49.11.12.31
Date: Circa 1948
Creator(s): Smith, Albert J., Sr., Photographer
Physical Description: 1 negative : b&w ; 4 x 5 in.
Credit: MOHAI, Al Smith Collection, 2014.49.11.12.31
Copyright: All Rights Reserved