Island and seafaring life in 19th century Massachusetts, including Martha’s Vineyard, was widely documented by 3D photographers whose work has now been digitized. Bernard P. Fishman of Photoarchive3D is making them come alive for the public in a new presentation, “From Martha’s Vineyard to the Shore in 19th Century 3D Stereoviews” at the Katharine Cornell Theater on Friday, Sept. 11, at 7 pm, presented by the Martha’s Vineyard Museum.
About 150 years ago, the Island was a much different place. A stroll through the streets of Edgartown was not centered on the elaborate shopping, nor were the infamous Gingerbread Houses of Cottage City known for anything more than their colorful lanterns. The constant struggle with the sea, and the harsh life of those whose living depended on fishing and whaling, was a reality.
According to a press release, Mr. Fishman of Photoarchive3D will present a collection of historical stereoviews of Martha’s Vineyard, New England, and the world that capture what life from 1855 to the present was like. The presentation will depict the treacherous life seamen endured during the days when the seafaring lifestyle dominated the Island and all seaside communities. It will also show how the Vineyard slowly transitioned from being a robust whaling community to the busy tourist destination it has become today.
Mr. Fishman founded Photoarchive3D in 2009 with George Mutter after the two met at a photo trade show. Their hard work and dedication has resulted in a collection of 28,000 original stereo images that cover a broad range of interesting topics. Mr. Fishman attended both Columbia University and the University of Pennsylvania. He is currently the executive director of Maine State Museum in Augusta, Maine, and is also a trained Egyptologist who has spent time in Egypt with the Oriental Institute of the University of Chicago.
“From Martha’s Vineyard to the Shore in 19th Century 3D Stereoviews” at the Katharine Cornell Theatre, 54 Spring Street, Vineyard Haven, Friday, Sept. 11, at 7 pm. Admission is $10 for museum members and $15 for nonmembers. Complimentary 3D glasses will be provided for all who attend.
