Item of the Month
Stereoscopes
Item of the Month is a series of articles featuring some of the amazing treasures that can be found in the BHA archives. A rare glimpse of the technology, fashion, and everyday items of a bygone era.
Stereoscopes were the precursor to today’s virtual reality. The hand-held device, when raised to the eyes, made a two-dimensional printed image appear three-dimensional.
The stereoscope was invented by David Brewster in 1848. By the 1860s, The London Stereoscopic Company alone had a million different prints available. In the mid 20th century, the stereoscope was developed into a popular toy: the View-Master.
Through the lense of a stereoscope.
Viewing the image “A Letter From Home” – 1898. Click image to enlarge.
Stereoscope with view card attached. Click image to enlarge.
Stereoscope with metal view shield. Click image to enlarge.
Side view of stereoscope with card attached. Click image to enlarge.
The Bayfield Heritage Association has a set of stereoscopic prints circa 1900, depicting scenes from around the world, activities of soldiers, popular events of the time, and everyday life.
Stereoscope image card titled “A Letter from Home”, dated 1898. Click image to enlarge.
Stereoscope cards showing images from the turn of the 20th century. Click image to enlarge.
A view of the stacks in the Pike Research Center. Click image to enlarge.
Volunteer!
Curious what else lies within the BHA archives? Find out for yourself, as a Pike Research Center volunteer!
There are many fascinating documents, photographs, and objects entrusted to BHA’s archive which need to be entered into our database, to ensure future researchers can access these resources.
We offer training, and you set your schedule!
Email info@bayfieldheritage.org for more information on this opportunity to be part of this volunteer-run organization.
Also, check out our Get Involved page for more options.