Original 1947 Associated Press Wirephoto photograph measuring approximately 8" x 8¼" overall, mounted to its original black newspaper archive backing. The image shows spectators, rescue workers, wreckage, and a damaged street scene after a basement explosion destroyed a beauty shop in Harrisonburg, Virginia on July 29, 1947. According to the original AP caption, the explosion brought death and injury to patrons and others in the area, with rescue workers searching for bodies in the beauty shop basement. The original AP caption remains attached beneath the photograph. This photograph originated from a large newspaper archive assembled and retained by a Pennsylvania newspaper near Pittsburgh. Exhibits expected age, handling wear, corner mounting remnants, and minor imperfections consistent with newspaper archive use. Please see photos.
