I have always been drawn to fashion and obsessed with it's history. I am not sure where it came from because no one in my family is into it, but my dad says I that I get it from him. I enjoy discovering traces of fashion in my own family history and enjoyed exploring this mysterious photo.My grandfather passed away seven years ago in Ennis, Montana which also happens to be his place of birth.  Ennis was his favorite town because it was filled with lots of family, great memories, and beautiful scenery.  His parents lived there and he was very close with his mother who was well known in the community.  We had fanastic experiences when we vacationed as children.  Unfortunately, the last time we were there was to lay him to rest. Over seven years ago I saved this photo when we went through his belongings.  I didn't remember a lot about my great grandmother but I loved this picture of her.  So, I tucked it away until I was looking for artwork to put in our office.

When I first discovered this picture it was in a large envelope with this letter enclosed.  There is no denying that I felt like I was on a treasure hunt while researching this photo.  It was very appealing and interesting. The letter states:

July 6, 2004

Dearest Doc and Olive,

This is a serious matter. I need your help. I am working on a special issue of the New Yorker that is to come out right before the election-- a small effort to remind the readers what this country is supposed to be about.  My project is titled "Democracy". At the moment I am planning to open the portfolio with an image I took on July 4th, 1978 in Ennis. It was never printed because it is in color. I am enclosing a copy. Everyone on the pages will be identified, from President Bush to Senator Kerry. I must name these people celebrating their 70th year in 1978. They are probably all gone. Is there any way that we can find out their names? They were in the 4th of July parade, representing their age group. Maybe there are children, grandchildren, or church members who can identify them. I know this is a pain in the neck for you, but it is a good cause. It would be such a nice way of honoring them. Doc, your letter was wonderful; I will get a proper answer as soon as I finish working on this.

Love,

Dick

Richard, a.k.a Dick was correct, my Nanny did pass before he wrote this letter in 1998. We were unaware of the picture until my grandfather's passing in 2008. I am not sure if it reached my family in time but my Grandpa had it in his posession. The rest is a mystery. How interesting that he took the picture before they published in color back in 1978!? I immediately became intruged with the New Yorker and subscribed so I could view the archives. I did find the section entitled "Democracy" by a Richard but I didn't see this picture enclosed in the article. It is still a mystery, but I am okay with that. This picture is a symbol of how I like to remember Ennis, with a little twist of fashion, of course!