Original 1947 AP Wire Photo showing a snake-handling religious service in Birchwood, Tennessee. The original AP caption identifies Mrs. Ida Harden Kennedy displaying a large rattlesnake during services at Dolly Pond Church shortly before authorities arrested members of the congregation for allegedly violating a state law prohibiting the public handling of poisonous serpents. Measures approximately 9" x 7¾". This photograph originated from a large newspaper archive assembled and retained by a Pennsylvania newspaper near Pittsburgh. Original AP caption remains attached to the mount. Condition shows newsroom handling wear, mounting remnants, edge wear, light creasing, and age-related surface imperfections consistent with newspaper archive storage. Please see photos.
