This September, Encyclopedia Virginia invites you to make a gift to support the inclusive story of Virginia.

MEDIA
A group of Black girls in light-colored dresses pose on a seesaw
Credit: Harvard Art Museums/Fogg Museum, Transfer from the Carpenter Center for the Visual Arts, Social Museum Collection
Original Author: Unknown
Created: ca. 1903
Medium: Gelatin silver photographic print

The Playground

In a photograph taken circa 1903, a group of girls in light-colored dresses pose on a seesaw in the play area at the Locust Street Social Settlement in Hampton. This was one of several photographic prints mounted on an album page titled The Playground. Founded and overseen by Janie Porter Bennett, the Locust Street organization offered social clubs and classes devoted to the domestic arts, agriculture, and education; recreational opportunities; and childcare support for the local Black community.

FEATURED IN

Sponsors