Who Were They?

This handsome man sat for his portrait showing off his fine handlebar mustache at the studio of A. B. Cross of Salem, MA. The Cross Photo studio is considered one of the most prolific of the CDV era (roughly 1870-1890). Salem of course has a long history in America, and by the time this photo was made, the area had developed numerous industrial interests, including a steam cotton mill, tanneries, and shoe factories. While the harbor and port declined against competition from New York and Boston, the town became famous for the author Nathaniel Hawthorne and its long history. 20th and 21st century school children are taught about the Salem Witch Trials through the play The Crucible by Arthur Miller, and based on events that took place in Salem in 1692-93.