Secretary Typing documents , ca. Because Theodor Horydczak was a commercial photographer, the collection contains many images of consumer goods. Using Washington as It Was, 1923-1959 as a starting point, students can research a specific item and study the changes of its design and function over time. For example, students might choose to study a specific kitchen appliance. Search on stove, range , and electrical appliances to find photographs showing different designs and models.
Students can read the photographs as indications of societal values.
Students may be asked to look at photographs and graphic materials that were used in advertising and discuss the ideals they convey. This could also be a starting point for a project looking at the history of advertising. Search on advertisement and merchandise displays to find ads related to many different types of goods. There are images in the collection that suggest the kinds of activities people participated in for entertainment. Students can look at these photographs and compare forms of these entertainments with activities that people are engaged in today.