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What Richmond, Virigina looked like in the 1940s Through Historic Photographs

Delving into the history of Richmond, Virginia in the 1940s, we uncover a transformative decade marked by wartime efforts, economic resurgence, social changes, and cultural growth. This period, which saw Richmond rebound from the challenges of World War II and stride towards a prosperous future, holds a multitude of stories, each one a vital thread in the vibrant tapestry of the city’s rich history.

The Impact of World War II

The decade started with the global turmoil of World War II, and like the rest of the country, Richmond was deeply impacted. The city’s factories switched to wartime production, with many Richmond residents enlisted or working in support of the war effort. Defense plants in the area, like the Virginia Aircraft Company, employed thousands of workers, contributing significantly to the war effort..

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The Boom of Tobacco and Industry

The post-war era saw a boom in Richmond’s traditional industries, particularly tobacco. Companies like Philip Morris saw massive growth, contributing to the city’s economic resurgence. This period also saw the expansion of other industries, including finance, insurance, and advertising, laying the groundwork for the diverse economy Richmond enjoys today.

The Expansion of Higher Education

The 1940s marked a significant period of expansion for higher education in Richmond. The Virginia Commonwealth University, known back then as Richmond Professional Institute, saw considerable growth, expanding its curriculum and increasing its student population. It served as a beacon of opportunity for returning servicemen and women, using the benefits of the GI Bill to further their education.

Infrastructure Development

Post-war Richmond witnessed significant infrastructure development. The city saw the construction of new homes, commercial buildings, and public facilities, catering to its growing population. A notable example is the Richmond-Petersburg Turnpike, now part of Interstate 95, which underwent significant expansion during this time.

Railroads and Transport

The Richmond, Fredericksburg, and Potomac Railroad (RF&P), integral to Richmond’s transportation system, underwent significant changes during this period. Post-war, it shifted its focus from transporting military freight back to its core operation – moving commercial goods and passengers. This contributed to Richmond’s economic resurgence and increased connectivity with other regions.

 

#3 Allison-Moore-Crump Building, 1309 East Main Street, Richmond, 1940s

#4 Eighteenth & Main Streets (House), Richmond, 1940s

#5 Hobson-Nolting House, 409 East Main Street, Richmond, 1940s

#6 Ballard Street & Tobacco Alley (House), Richmond, 1940s

#10 706 North Eighteenth Street (House), Richmond, 1940s

#11 400 West Franklin Street (House), Richmond, 1940s

#14 2600 East Marshall Street (House), Richmond, 1940s

#15 Seventeenth & Venable Streets (House), Richmond, 1940s

#18 Twenty-first & Venable Streets (House), Richmond, 1940s

#19 Linden Row, 100-118 East Franklin Street, Richmond, 1940s

#20 Twenty-third & Franklin Streets (Houses), Richmond, 1940s

#21 Chamberlayne Avenue & Saint Peter Street (House), Richmond, 1940s

#22 Hawes House, 506 East Leigh Street, Richmond, 1940s

#23 John Marshall House, 818 East Marshall Street, Richmond, 1940s

#24 Mason’s Hall, 1805 East Franklin Street, Richmond, 1940s

#25 John Morris Cottage, 2500 East Grace Street, Richmond, 1940s

#26 Old Stone House, 1916 East Main Street, Richmond, 1940s

#27 Dr. John Adams Double House, 2501-2503 East Grace Street, Richmond, 1940s

#28 William C. Allen Double House, 4-6 East Main Street, Richmond, 1940s

#29 Andrew Ellet House, 2702 East Grace Street, Richmond, 1940s

#30 William Barret House, Fifth & Cary Streets, Richmond, 1940s

#32 Bransford House, 1005 Clay Street (moved from 13 North Fifth Street), Richmond, 1940s

#33 Dr. John Brockenbrough House, 1201 East Clay Street, Richmond, 1940s

#34 Curtis Carter House, 100 East Main Street, Richmond, 1940s

#35 Columbian Block, 1301-1307 East Cary Street, Richmond, 1940s

#36 778 North Ninth Street (Cottage), Richmond, 1940s

#37 Adolph Dill House, 00 Clay Street, Richmond, 1940s

#38 Donnan-Asher Iron Front Building, 1207-1211 East Main Street, Richmond, 1940s

#39 212-214 South First Street (Double House), Richmond, 1940s

#40 2216-2218 East Main Street (Double House), Richmond, 1940s

#41 1200-1202 North Seventeenth Street (Double House), Richmond, 1940s

#42 Ellet-Todd-Lawrence Building, 1019-1021 East Cary Street, Richmond, 1940s

#43 Gosden House, Third & Leigh Streets, Richmond, 1940s

#44 Phillip Morris Leaf Storage Warehouse, 1717-1721 East Cary Street, Richmond, 1940s

#45 Pratt’s Castle, 324 South Fourth Street, Richmond, 1940s

#46 Rutherfoord-Hobson House, 2 West Franklin Street, Richmond, 1940s

#47 John D. Smith House, 2617 East Franklin Street, Richmond, 1940s

#48 Whitlock Double House, 628-630 North Seventeenth Street, Richmond, 1940s

#49 Pohlig Paper Box Factory, Twenty-fifth & Franklin Streets, Richmond, 1940s

#50 504-510 West Broad Street (Commercial Buildings), Richmond, 1940s

#51 Mount Airy, Counting House, State Route 646 vicinity, Warsaw, Richmond County, 1940s

#52 1109-1113 East Main Street (Commercial Buildings), Richmond, 1940s

#53 Bellona Arsenal, Workshops, State Route 673 vicinity, Richmond, 1940s

#54 The Oaks, (moved to 307 Stockton Lane, Richmond), Mattoax, Amelia County, 1940s

#55 Dwellers of Richmond-area houseboats endured nature’s wrath as the James River swelled after a storm, 1944.

Dwellers of Richmond-area houseboats endured nature’s wrath as the James River swelled after a storm, 1944.

The boats often were secured to trees or pilings, but rising floodwaters put them in jeopardy.

#56 High water on Dock Street in downtown Richmond followed a brief flood that caused no damage, 1949.

High water on Dock Street in downtown Richmond followed a brief flood that caused no damage, 1949.

The James River crested at 13.1 feet during the afternoon but receded by 5 feet within hours.

#57 The building, at Madison and Grace streets in Richmond, that once sat downtown and housed First Presbyterian Church, 1940s.

The building, at Madison and Grace streets in Richmond, that once sat downtown and housed First Presbyterian Church, 1940s.

Completed in 1853 at the current site of Old City Hall, the building’s outer shell was moved to Madison and Grace in the mid-1880s to make room for the city building. In 1943, the Acca Shriners, who had lost the Mosque (now Altria Theater) during the Great Depression, purchased the old church building. They used it until the mid-1950s; the building has since been torn down.

#58 Mrs. P.M. Edwards directed a group of women to a shelter during a daylight air raid test in Richmond, 1942.

Mrs. P.M. Edwards directed a group of women to a shelter during a daylight air raid test in Richmond, 1942.

She was among the first women to serve as auxiliary wardens during a test.

#59 A group of Lakeside air raid wardens rolled bandages for the Red Cross at the Hatcher Memorial Church on Dumbarton Road in Henrico County, 1944.

A group of Lakeside air raid wardens rolled bandages for the Red Cross at the Hatcher Memorial Church on Dumbarton Road in Henrico County, 1944.

During World War II, the sight of women in overalls doing what traditionally had been men’s jobs had grown familiar. And while the reverse was less common, the military’s need for surgical dressings prompted these men to help answer the call. They had taken first-aid courses, too.

#60 Leaders of the three flights in the Gamble’s Hill Community Center Air Scouts received their banners at the first review of the corps held in Gamble’s Hill Park, 1946.

Leaders of the three flights in the Gamble’s Hill Community Center Air Scouts received their banners at the first review of the corps held in Gamble's Hill Park, 1946.

This was the only troupe of Air Scouts organized in Richmond at that time; they wore the regulation National Air Scout uniform. Pictured (from left) were pilot leader Eddie Williams, sponsor Verna Walker, pilot leader William Massie, sponsor Barbara Chandler, pilot leader Everett Webb and sponsor Virginia Blackburn. The community center was financed by Second Presbyterian Church.

#61 An Allied Victory Day parade was staged by Richmond’s Chinese population and visiting Chinese residents from other cities, 1945.

An Allied Victory Day parade was staged by Richmond's Chinese population and visiting Chinese residents from other cities, 1945.

Several colorful floats such as this one, a Marine Corps band from Quantico, two Chinese orchestras, native costumes, high school cadet bands, and units of soldiers and sailors from nearby camps marched along the route that began at Boulevard and Monument Avenue.

#62 The Richmond chapter of the American Red Cross moved into its new headquarters in the Hancock-Wirt-Caskie House at Fifth and Main streets downtown, 1942.

The Richmond chapter of the American Red Cross moved into its new headquarters in the Hancock-Wirt-Caskie House at Fifth and Main streets downtown, 1942.

Helping to move were Jeanne Begien (left), Evelyn Bishop (front), Mrs. Roger F. Clapp (back) and Mrs. Leland Jones (peering from back of truck).

#63 The uniforms of the volunteer services of the American Red Cross, 1942.

The uniforms of the volunteer services of the American Red Cross, 1942.

From left: Georgina Marracinia, outdoor uniform; Nancy Wortham, staff assistant; Mrs. C.F. Bowles, gray ladies; Mrs. William Hall, nurses’ aide; Mrs. Livingstone, home service; Mrs. J. Scott Parrish Jr., canteen; Mrs. Robert Cabell III, production, and Mrs. Collins Denny Jr., motor corps.

#64 American Red Cross Production Corps, 1940s

American Red Cross Production Corps, 1940s

Volunteers with the Chesterfield County branch of the American Red Cross Production Corps put in 314 collective hours of work making 40 dresses, 12 sweaters and 14 banners for the relief drive to aid war-stricken Europeans. The volunteers shown here are (from left) Mrs. A. Baake, Mrs. W.E. Pearce, Mrs. J.P. Belcher, Mrs. W.F. Saunders, Mrs. H.E. Adams, Mrs. N.H. Cogbill and Mrs. H.C. Cline.

#65 Elwyn Major (left) and Virgie Gentry of Richmond practiced archery, a sport that was attracting more interest from females, 1941

#66 John Marshall High School cadet sergeants M. Cohen and J.C. Fuquay played taps during a service on Armistice Day at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Richmond, 1942.

John Marshall High School cadet sergeants M. Cohen and J.C. Fuquay played taps during a service on Armistice Day at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Richmond, 1942.

They stood under the church’s service flag: Each blue star represented a church member who was on active duty in World War II, and each gold star represented a church member lost in the war. Service flags were popular for families but sometimes were used by organizations and communities.

#67 Local game warden E.J. Gorman stood atop a dam in one of Chesterfield County’s nine beaver colonies, 1947.

Local game warden E.J. Gorman stood atop a dam in one of Chesterfield County’s nine beaver colonies, 1947.

At the time, two dozen counties had beaver colonies, with an eye toward helping restore fur trapping in Virginia.

#68 The Belgian Friendship Building and Bell Tower at Virginia Union University in Richmond, 1942.

The Belgian Friendship Building and Bell Tower at Virginia Union University in Richmond, 1942.

The building served as the Belgian Pavilion at the 1939 World's Fair in New York, but because Belgium was under wartime occupation after the event, it could not be returned to the country. Belgium gifted the building to VUU -- it was reassembled on campus starting in 1941 and housed the university library for decades.

#69 The 76-year-old trestle across the James River that Southern Railway used to haul coal and iron between the Old Dominion Iron and Steel mill and Tredegar Co. was being removed, 1948.

The 76-year-old trestle across the James River that Southern Railway used to haul coal and iron between the Old Dominion Iron and Steel mill and Tredegar Co. was being removed, 1948.

A 1909 fire had ravaged the bridge, and by 1948, its remnants on the isle were determined to be a fire hazard far beyond any use.

#70 The train depot at the Army’s Richmond Quartermaster Depot at Bellwood in Chesterfield County, 1946.

The train depot at the Army’s Richmond Quartermaster Depot at Bellwood in Chesterfield County, 1946.

The Army purchased the land from the Bellwood family in 1941 and activated the post the following year. It was heavily used during World War II – more than 800 rail cars would pass through on some days.

#71 The Bellwood Drive-In Theater, under construction now four miles south of Richmond city limits, will open on or about May 27, 1948.

The Bellwood Drive-In Theater, under construction now four miles south of Richmond city limits, will open on or about May 27, 1948.

The tower shown in the photo is 70 feet high, serving as front of the theater and screen.

#72 A blackout test during World War II – in case enemy aircraft flew over the city – darkened the interior of many buildings in downtown Richmond, 1942.

A blackout test during World War II – in case enemy aircraft flew over the city – darkened the interior of many buildings in downtown Richmond, 1942.

The one-hour exercise, which covered the Richmond and Tri-Cities area, required that buildings and residences turn off lights or prevent light from being seen from the outside. Buses, ambulances and personal vehicles were also asked to remain off the roads.

#73 A newly renovated basketball court, plus improved lighting and expanded seating, awaited action at the Blues Armory at Sixth and Marshall streets in downtown Richmond, 1947.

A newly renovated basketball court, plus improved lighting and expanded seating, awaited action at the Blues Armory at Sixth and Marshall streets in downtown Richmond, 1947.

The next evening, the University of Richmond hosted the College of William & Mary. Ticket prices were $1 for adults and 60 cents for children 12 and younger.

#74 Tap dancer Bill “Bojangles” Robinson showed his wife, Elaine, the house at 915 N. Third St. in which he was born, 1945.

Tap dancer Bill "Bojangles" Robinson showed his wife, Elaine, the house at 915 N. Third St. in which he was born, 1945.

Robinson, who left Richmond at age 7 to join a traveling show, wanted to get a photo of the house so that his show business friends would believe his stories about his humble beginnings.

#75 Berrier’s Ice Cream, located at the corner of Moore Street and the Boulevard in Scott’s Addition in Richmond, 1946.

Berrier’s Ice Cream, located at the corner of Moore Street and the Boulevard in Scott’s Addition in Richmond, 1946.

Berrier’s opened a plant on West Broad Street in 1930 – an advertisement for an open house, with samples, humbly touted that it’s “not a tremendous plant, supplying thousands of gallons of ice cream a day … nothing pretentious.” The Boulevard store, which has since been torn down, did serve sundaes and cones, but its main focus was takeout ice cream and blocks of ice.

#76 The first pupils entered the Bowler School, 1948.

The first pupils entered the Bowler School, 1948.

The school, at 26th and Leigh streets in Richmond, was previously the Springfield School, which taught white children. It had just been converted to a school for black youths, and more than 700 were enrolled on the first day. It was named for J. Andrew Bowler, the first pastor at Mount Olivet Baptist Church and organizer of a Church Hill school for black children in the 1880s. The building now houses the Bacon and Bowler Retirement Community.

#77 Richmond officials put up warning signs near the city limits on West Broad Street to limit speeding, which was a top traffic concern at the time, 1947.

#78 A passenger train pulled out of Broad Street Station in Richmond and headed to Washington, 1946. At the time, a potential labor strike was threatening service.

#79 Babies slept in the nursery at Brookfield, located on West Broad Street in Henrico County, 1946.

Babies slept in the nursery at Brookfield, located on West Broad Street in Henrico County, 1946.

The home for unwed mothers was the successor to Spring Street Home in Richmond’s Oregon Hill area, which was established in 1874 by the Magdalen Association to help single women and their children. In the 1930s, the operation moved from Spring Street to Brookfield, and later to Brook Road in Henrico. The Brookfield area was redeveloped in the 1970s and was the site of the Hyatt House hotel.

#80 Workers lifted a car – temporarily – from the middle quarry at Bryan Park, 1942.

Workers lifted a car – temporarily – from the middle quarry at Bryan Park, 1942.

It had been stolen days earlier, and once it was pulled to the bank, Henrico County police confirmed that no one was in it. But halfway up the bank, shortly after this picture was taken, the chain broke and the car slipped back into the quarry – 32 feet of water had to be pumped out of the quarry before the car could be recovered.

#81 An Eastern Air Lines plane at Byrd Field, 1947.

An Eastern Air Lines plane at Byrd Field, 1947.

The city of Richmond held negotiations with the War Assets Administration for the return of the airport, which had been transformed into the Richmond Army Air Base during World War II. When the field was returned to the city, it was more than 850 acres larger than when the federal government took it over.

#82 A train pulled into Main Street Station in Richmond, 1946.

A train pulled into Main Street Station in Richmond, 1946.

That afternoon marked the end of a crippling two-day national railroad strike, which had stranded passengers and cargo – local businesses were able to purchase some of the perishable foods as well as tropical fish. President Harry Truman had threatened an Army takeover of railroad facilities if the striking trainmen and engineers unions didn’t return to work.

#83 Soldiers from Camp Lee in Prince George County were positioned on the south end of the old Lee Bridge in Richmond just days after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor that brought the United States into World War II.

#84 Amid a nationwide gas shortage, Harry J. Donati (left) and Joseph G. Robben drove their horse-drawn carriage down 25th Street in Church Hill in Richmond, 1941.

#85 Trucks blocked Cary Street in the wholesale produce district while passenger cars waited to get through, 1947.

Trucks blocked Cary Street in the wholesale produce district while passenger cars waited to get through, 1947.

The Times-Dispatch ran a series analyzing Richmond’s traffic problems such as this, and reviewing a proposed expressway. Based on a survey completed by the Automotive Safety Foundation, the series indicated that the current infrastructure could not handle the predicted increase in traffic, and construction of the expressway was recommended.

#86 Billie MacIntire, a professional at the Cavalier Arena roller skating rink posed for a photo to promote her upcoming demonstration of a new routine, 1941.

Billie MacIntire, a professional at the Cavalier Arena roller skating rink posed for a photo to promote her upcoming demonstration of a new routine, 1941.

The arena, which opened in June 1941, was at MacTavish Avenue and West Marshall Street in Richmond’s West End. It held skating exhibitions on Friday and Saturday nights.

#87 “The Soldier,” as many people called the patient of Central State Hospital near Petersburg, sat outside a sentry box he had built on the grounds, 1947.

“The Soldier,” as many people called the patient of Central State Hospital near Petersburg, sat outside a sentry box he had built on the grounds, 1947.

The psychiatric hospital dates to 1869, when a former Confederate facility known as Howard’s Grove Hospital was designated as a mental health facility for African-Americans.

#88 The Central Station Post Office on Second Street in downtown Richmond, whose size increased by a third after a remodeling several months earlier, 1946.

#89 Richmonders headed home from work, Thomas Jefferson High School students distributed literature for the Junior Chamber of Commerce promoting the change to a council-manager type of city government, 1947.

Richmonders headed home from work, Thomas Jefferson High School students distributed literature for the Junior Chamber of Commerce promoting the change to a council-manager type of city government, 1947.

In the next month’s vote, the issue generated a higher turnout than the 1944 presidential election, and the new charter was approved overwhelmingly.

#90 British wartime leader Winston Churchill’s trip to America included an address to the General Assembly, 1946.

British wartime leader Winston Churchill’s trip to America included an address to the General Assembly, 1946.

He waved to a crowd that waited in the rain to see him as his motorcade came through Capitol Square in Richmond.

#91 A woman working in a tobacco factory, 1941.

A woman working in a tobacco factory, 1941.

An accompanying story outlined the growth of Virginia women in the workforce. Based on 1930 census data, more than 6,000 women worked in tobacco factories – the sixth-ranked source of employment for women.

#92 The Police Benevolent Association presented its sixth annual boxing show at City Stadium, headlined by Jimmy Webb, Johnny “Bandit” Romero, Georgie Abrams and Richmond’s Joey Spangler, 1941.

The Police Benevolent Association presented its sixth annual boxing show at City Stadium, headlined by Jimmy Webb, Johnny “Bandit” Romero, Georgie Abrams and Richmond’s Joey Spangler, 1941.

A crowd of more than 10,000 watched Webb knock out Romero in the third round, and Abrams won a decision over Spangler. Tickets were $1 for general admission, $2 for reserved and $3 for ringside.

#93 Female fans wearing the red and white of Thomas Jefferson High School were part of a crowd of 17,000 who watched Teejay beat John Marshall High 6-0 in the Prep Classic at City Stadium in Richmond, 1946.

Female fans wearing the red and white of Thomas Jefferson High School were part of a crowd of 17,000 who watched Teejay beat John Marshall High 6-0 in the Prep Classic at City Stadium in Richmond, 1946.

John Marshall got to Teejay’s one-foot line in the last minute of play but couldn’t score.

#94 Mrs. James Hicks of James City County and her daughter, Willie Mae, made a cornhusk doormat at home, 1949.

Mrs. James Hicks of James City County and her daughter, Willie Mae, made a cornhusk doormat at home, 1949.

A roughly 5-yard braid was needed to make the mat. Hicks could make about 200 in a year.

#95 Traffic moved through the intersection of Cowardin Avenue and Hull Street in South Richmond, 1948.

Traffic moved through the intersection of Cowardin Avenue and Hull Street in South Richmond, 1948.

The city was planning several pedestrian safety upgrades at the busy intersection, including painted crosswalks, new signage and a fence along Hull.

#96 The new Curles Neck Dairy plant at 1600 Roseneath Road in Richmond, 1947.

The new Curles Neck Dairy plant at 1600 Roseneath Road in Richmond, 1947.

The building, which cost more than $200,000, gave the 13-year-old dairy modern features including a refreshment room that served up to 50 people, ice-cream-making facilities and curbside service. The building is now home to the Dairy Bar restaurant.

#97 A crowd estimated at 8,000 came from around the state to watch the Deep Run races at Curles Neck Farm in Henrico County. Escape 3d won the Deep Run Cup, the featured event, 1940.

A crowd estimated at 8,000 came from around the state to watch the Deep Run races at Curles Neck Farm in Henrico County. Escape 3d won the Deep Run Cup, the featured event, 1940.

A group of movie stars and dignitaries including Cary Grant turned out to watch while taking a break from filming “The Howards of Virginia” in Colonial Williamsburg. Part of the big crowd, estimated at 8,000 spectators, is shown above. The picture shows the members' reserve section just to right of the grandstand. This event was held at Curles Neck Farm.

#98 The nearly 4,500-ton British steamer Markland was the first ship to dock at Richmond’s new Deep Water Terminal on the James River, 1940.

The nearly 4,500-ton British steamer Markland was the first ship to dock at Richmond’s new Deep Water Terminal on the James River, 1940.

The ship brought a cargo of 1,000 tons of newsprint from Nova Scotia for The Times-Dispatch and News Leader.

#99 The Defense Special No. 1 train stopped in Richmond at Broad Street Station, 1941.

The Defense Special No. 1 train stopped in Richmond at Broad Street Station, 1941.

Nearly 800 local manufacturers were issued tickets to visit the eight-car train, which held an array of sample equipment that the government needed contractors to build for the war effort – such as guns, airplane and ship parts, field hospital equipment, chairs, saws and pipe fittings. The train staff interviewed and guided qualified manufacturers through the process to become a contractor.

#100 Heavy kraft paper, made from wood pulp, that was being converted into drinking cups at a Richmond factory, 1946.

Heavy kraft paper, made from wood pulp, that was being converted into drinking cups at a Richmond factory, 1946.

The majority of Virginia pulp and paper mills made this type of paper, which was used to make other goods. Factories were maximizing production after the war era had developed new and popular paper products.

#101 Scoop sniffed around the pet food aisle at a grocery store in Richmond’s West End, 1944.

Scoop sniffed around the pet food aisle at a grocery store in Richmond’s West End, 1944.

The store offered a large selection of pet foods, a relatively new concept for the era. The accompanying article said: “Gone, apparently, are the days that Fido took the scraps from the table and liked them.”

#102 The future of the military draft was in question, and David Burruss, 19, of Norfolk, got lots of attention when he was thought to be the last man selected at the Richmond Armed Forces Induction Station.

#103 The outside restrooms at the Elba School in Richmond, 1947.

The outside restrooms at the Elba School in Richmond, 1947.

Opened in 1880 in a white neighborhood, the school on West Marshall Street was designated for black students in 1927. By 1939, the school was recommended for abandonment because of its poor condition and a lack of facilities, such as adequate interior restrooms. It was used until 1955 and later was torn down.

#104 An executive of Atlantic Life Insurance Co. posted a sign in the elevators at the office building at Main and Sixth streets in downtown Richmond, 1943.

An executive of Atlantic Life Insurance Co. posted a sign in the elevators at the office building at Main and Sixth streets in downtown Richmond, 1943.

The sign, which asked men to keep their hats on, challenged tradition – in the presence of women, men customarily removed their hats and held them to their chest. The executive felt the new policy would speed elevator service and allow for more room.

#105 Mrs. Price looks on while Lucille, the mansion’s cook, mixes up something special in the kitchen, which has been completely renovated during the Price administration, 1942.

#106 Eastern Henrico County farmer J.B. Alvis drove his tractor through 70 acres of soybeans, 1949.

Eastern Henrico County farmer J.B. Alvis drove his tractor through 70 acres of soybeans, 1949.

The machine cut and threshed the beans, and with the help of the boy on the back of the tractor, Alvis bagged them. According to an accompanying article, Virginia farmers produced 1.75 million bushels of soybeans the year before, which grossed them $4.1 million.

#107 William H. Haskins gazed over what was left of his Health Centre Inc. bowling alley at Hermitage Road and Meadow Street in Richmond after a fire, 1943.

William H. Haskins gazed over what was left of his Health Centre Inc. bowling alley at Hermitage Road and Meadow Street in Richmond after a fire, 1943.

The sprawling brick building, which opened in 1928 and housed 36 lanes, was totally destroyed.

#108 Rush hour crowd watches smoke pour from building at 14th and Main during fire, 1948.

Rush hour crowd watches smoke pour from building at 14th and Main during fire, 1948.

Traffic tied up an hour by three-alarm blaze at Casket Company late yesterday.

#109 First and Merchants National Bank of Richmond, 1941

First and Merchants National Bank of Richmond, 1941

It was located at Ninth and Main Streets in downtown. The bank was in the process of adding the first drive-in tellers windows which would allow customers to drive thru for service on the Eighth Street side of the building. The bank hoped the system would alleviate downtown parking woes and quicken service for customers.

#110 David Singleton fished below the spillway at Birchin Lake in Nottoway County, 1948.

David Singleton fished below the spillway at Birchin Lake in Nottoway County, 1948.

The soldier from Durham, N.C., eventually was rewarded with a catch of a 4-pound catfish.

#111 Flooding from heavy rains in the Windsor Shades area of New Kent County washed out a Chesapeake & Ohio Railway bed, leaving unsupported rails spanning a chasm, 1948.

Flooding from heavy rains in the Windsor Shades area of New Kent County washed out a Chesapeake & Ohio Railway bed, leaving unsupported rails spanning a chasm, 1948.

The flooded U.S. Route 60 is in the foreground. As much as 8 feet of water was reported on Route 60 in the area.

#112 Forest Lodge, completed in the early 1880s by Confederate Army scout John Cussons, 1946.

Forest Lodge, completed in the early 1880s by Confederate Army scout John Cussons, 1946.

The six-story resort hotel stood on 1,000 acres in Glen Allen on Mountain Road and boasted more than 100 rooms. It never became the success that Cussons envisioned, and after changing hands and purposes several times, it was razed in 1992. The cupola was saved and can be seen at Mountain Road and Old Washington Highway.

#113 The dance floor was full at the newly opened Service Club at Camp Lee in Prince George County, 1941.

The dance floor was full at the newly opened Service Club at Camp Lee in Prince George County, 1941.

The dance kicked off a series that was to run three times per week, with a different battalion invited each night. About 500 service members and 125 girls attended this first dance.

#114 The Freedom Train stopped in Richmond at Allen Avenue and West Broad Street, 1947.

The Freedom Train stopped in Richmond at Allen Avenue and West Broad Street, 1947.

People waited in blocks-long lines to tour exhibits of historical artifacts that included the original Constitution, Declaration of Independence, Truman Doctrine and Bill of Rights. The Freedom Train, which traveled the country between 1947 and 1949, was the first train to visit each of the 48 states (Alaska and Hawaii had not yet gained statehood). Virginians in blocks-long line await turn to tour exhibits aboard Freedom Train at Allen Avenue and Broad Street.

#115 A boxcar from France’s “Merci Train,” loaded with gifts for Virginians, arrived in Richmond, 1949.

A boxcar from France’s “Merci Train,” loaded with gifts for Virginians, arrived in Richmond, 1949.

The gifts – including dolls, lace, antique furniture, books, statues and paintings -- were an expression of thanks for the American "Friendship Train," which distributed food to needy Europeans in 1947. Richmonders filled two of the 12 boxcars of supplies sent by Virginia. After ceremonies at the state Capitol, the French boxcar spent a week on display downtown.

#116 Gas shortages prompted the Retailers for Victory campaign to stage Richmond’s first “gasless parade” to promote the sale of war stamps, which would fund construction of the aircraft carrier Shangri-La, 1943.

Gas shortages prompted the Retailers for Victory campaign to stage Richmond’s first “gasless parade” to promote the sale of war stamps, which would fund construction of the aircraft carrier Shangri-La, 1943.

The event featured all manner of transportation not fueled by gas: Gov. Colgate Darden rode in an ox-driven cart, and a goat-powered wagon (center right) carried Mayor Gordon Ambler along the parade route from Monroe Park to Capitol Square.

#117 Children took a homemade cart for a spin along North 19th Street in Richmond, 1941.

Children took a homemade cart for a spin along North 19th Street in Richmond, 1941.

They built the toy in the spirit of “Gasless Sundays,” a means of conserving resources in a national defense drive ahead of U.S. entry into World War II. The cart was fashioned from an orange crate, old baby carriage wheels and scrap lumber.

#118 The sound of the bell summoned students to George Wythe School in Richmond on the first day of class, 1945.

#119 Students at the Grace Arents School celebrated the end of the school year, 1943.

Students at the Grace Arents School celebrated the end of the school year, 1943.

The Oregon Hill school, which opened in 1911, honored the philanthropist for her donation of the land and $5,000 toward the building. After decades as an elementary school and later a special education school, the building has housed Open High School since 1989.

#120 Sixth and Grace Streets looking west at 5:30pm, 1940s

#121 Shoppers ducked into doorways or under awnings on Grace Street between Fourth and Fifth streets in downtown Richmond, 1949.

Shoppers ducked into doorways or under awnings on Grace Street between Fourth and Fifth streets in downtown Richmond, 1949.

Summer heat left the block unusually quiet for a Saturday afternoon.

#122 Grace Street sidewalk being cleared of today’s ‘black snow.’ Soot and grime. Air pollution.

#123 A crowd gathered outside a Richmond grocery store on a day that hard-to-get items were available, 1946.

A crowd gathered outside a Richmond grocery store on a day that hard-to-get items were available, 1946.

Because of rationing and shortages during World War II, shop inventory ebbed and flowed for some time afterward as the economy stabilized.

#124 Members of the Henrico Red Cross Motor Corps participated in a test drill in uniform, 1942.

Members of the Henrico Red Cross Motor Corps participated in a test drill in uniform, 1942.

The women had completed courses in basic and advanced first aid, motor mechanics and blackout driving. The motor corps was established by the American Red Cross in 1917 during World War I to transport wounded soldiers to local hospitals and deliver supplies.

#125 The Highland Springs Volunteer Fire Department, 1940s.

The Highland Springs Volunteer Fire Department, 1940s.

The unit was organized in July 1941 with 45 volunteers and a $6,000 fire truck. The unit moved into this building on Nine Mile Road in 1947. At far left is Fire Chief Percy L. Burnett.

#126 The Holden Rhodes House, also known as the old Stone House, located at Forest Hill Park in South Richmond, 1942.

The Holden Rhodes House, also known as the old Stone House, located at Forest Hill Park in South Richmond, 1942.

The house, named for the noted lawyer and businessman who built it, dates to around 1840 and was made of granite from the quarries on the original estate. It was remodeled in the 1930s and for a time was home to a library. The house, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, now serves as an event venue.

#127 Sportsmen from Virginia and surrounding states brough their best hounds last Monday to Baskerville, near South Hill, for the twenty-sixth annual field trials of the Virginia Fox Hunters Association, 1948.

#128 Workmen of the Virginia Electric and Power Company repaired damage from sleet and ice at Brook Road and Westwood Avenue, 1943.

#129 Ice and snow created a winter wonderland scene on the James River in Richmond, 1948.

Ice and snow created a winter wonderland scene on the James River in Richmond, 1948.

Subfreezing temperatures had chilled Eastern and Midwestern states and led to a heating oil shortage.

#130 Richmond city employees hurriedly made preparations for a James River flood by filling and loading sandbags, 1944.

Richmond city employees hurriedly made preparations for a James River flood by filling and loading sandbags, 1944.

The James ultimately rose to 24.2 feet in the city after heavy rains throughout the river’s watershed.

#131 Kensington Avenue apartments, 1947

Kensington Avenue apartments, 1947

An 18-unit apartment complex in the 2700 block of Kensington Avenue in Richmond was nearing completion.

#132 Richmond lawyer Robert R. Merhige Jr. worked with his secretary, Mrs. Robert Wagner, to conduct inventory at a laundry on North Addison Street for which he had been appointed receiver, 1945.

Richmond lawyer Robert R. Merhige Jr. worked with his secretary, Mrs. Robert Wagner, to conduct inventory at a laundry on North Addison Street for which he had been appointed receiver, 1945.

Merhige, who had recently been discharged from the Army Air Forces, later became a federal judge in Virginia.

#133 Eldridge E. Scales of Maggie Walker High School conducted an elementary school band rehearsal for the Richmond public schools’ annual spring music festival, “One World Through Music.”

Eldridge E. Scales of Maggie Walker High School conducted an elementary school band rehearsal for the Richmond public schools’ annual spring music festival, “One World Through Music.”

The festival, which previously had been held in the Mosque, was postponed twice because bad weather threatened the new location at City Stadium. Despite the delays, about 8,000 people attended the show.

#134 The Virginia Department of Highways debuted its newest piece of equipment on U.S. Route 1 between Richmond and Ashland, 1945.

The Virginia Department of Highways debuted its newest piece of equipment on U.S. Route 1 between Richmond and Ashland, 1945.

The road magnet, moving at about 15 mph, picked up nails, spikes, tacks and other metallic objects on roads that might lead to flat tires.

#135 Carl A. Throckmorton (left) showed Richmond Postmaster Fergus McRee one of the 100 new mailboxes that would be installed at city street corners, 1949.

Carl A. Throckmorton (left) showed Richmond Postmaster Fergus McRee one of the 100 new mailboxes that would be installed at city street corners, 1949.

The additions would bring the total number of receptacles to about 680, meaning no city resident would have to walk more than three blocks to deposit a letter.

#136 Residents of the Lakeside area took down their Rural Free Delivery mailboxes, which had given way to new, smaller metal boxes on porches, 1942.

Residents of the Lakeside area took down their Rural Free Delivery mailboxes, which had given way to new, smaller metal boxes on porches, 1942.

Richmond delivery would be beginning as a result of annexation, in which the city added portions of Henrico and Chesterfield counties (about 16 square miles covering 22,000 residents).

#137 Morton Marks 1217 E Main St. The block at left is between 13 & 14 on East Main St & looking East on Main. Fire, 1943.

#138 Traffic along Main Street downtown, 1946.

Traffic along Main Street downtown, 1946.

That month, a New York consultant selected by the Richmond Chamber of Commerce made a series of recommendations to improve local transit, including prohibiting parking along Main Street at busy times. As shown here, when cars were parked along the curb, drivers had to putter behind the glut of streetcars because there was no room to pass.

#139 The Virginia Fire & Marine Insurance Co. building at 1015 Main St. downtown, 1947.

The Virginia Fire & Marine Insurance Co. building at 1015 Main St. downtown, 1947.

The company was at this location between 1861 and 1953, though the first building burned with the rest of Richmond in 1865. By 1869, the current structure, also known as the Branch Building, was completed. It is on the National Register of Historic Places and is considered one of Richmond’s finest iron-fronted buildings.

#140 The Mayo Bridge in downtown Richmond underwent a two-month repaving project, 1941.

The Mayo Bridge in downtown Richmond underwent a two-month repaving project, 1941.

Tolls on the Lee Bridge were lifted for cars with city license plates to ease the inconvenience during the work. The Mayo Bridge, also known as the 14th Street Bridge, is where the original structure connected Richmond and Manchester in the late 1700s. TONING COMPLETE -- Repaving starts on Mayo Bridge. This picture shows workmen repaving the Mayo Bridge. Southbound traffic can be seen over the span. Northbound traffic has been halted during the repairs. Fourteenth Street Bridge.

#141 Fishing enthusiasts came out to enjoy the bright sunshine on the Mayo Bridge in downtown Richmond, 1946. High temperatures matched the 1925 record of 90 degrees.

#142 The newly installed “Three Bears” statue in front of the Medical College of Virginia Hospital at the corner of 12th and Broad streets in Richmond, 1941.

The newly installed “Three Bears” statue in front of the Medical College of Virginia Hospital at the corner of 12th and Broad streets in Richmond, 1941.

Noted sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington created the work, which she and her husband, Archer Milton Huntington, donated to the college. Bears are a symbol of healing in Native American culture. Decades later, the statue was moved inside to protect it.

#143 The historic Richmond Grays marched in a Memorial Day parade en route to Hollywood Cemetery in Richmond, 1946.

The historic Richmond Grays marched in a Memorial Day parade en route to Hollywood Cemetery in Richmond, 1946.

The unit was organized in 1844 and served most famously in the Civil War; its history is incorporated in today’s 276th Engineer Battalion of the Virginia National Guard.

#144 Richmond was the site of Virginia’s largest military parade since World War II began, with more than 6,000 uniformed men and women marching along Monument Avenue and Franklin, Belvidere and Broad streets, 1946.

Richmond was the site of Virginia’s largest military parade since World War II began, with more than 6,000 uniformed men and women marching along Monument Avenue and Franklin, Belvidere and Broad streets, 1946.

The parade was organized as part of the nation’s drive to secure the voluntary enlistment of 18 and 19-year-olds in the war effort.

#145 Ed Brooking, the 68-year-old proprietor of the Cedar Point Grist Mill in Goochland County, loaded corn into a funnel to be ground by the millstones, 1947.

Ed Brooking, the 68-year-old proprietor of the Cedar Point Grist Mill in Goochland County, loaded corn into a funnel to be ground by the millstones, 1947.

While his machine was old and often required maintenance, Brooking swore by the method of stone-ground corn.

#146 Robert Price stood beside a horse and wagon he would soon be driving for the Miller & Rhoads department store in Richmond, 1942.

Robert Price stood beside a horse and wagon he would soon be driving for the Miller & Rhoads department store in Richmond, 1942.

With the government calling for conserving tires as shortages loomed during World War II, Miller & Rhoads and Thalhimers looked to their past to find alternate ways deliver purchases to customers, as was their custom at the time.

#147 Mrs. Tazewell Perrow served soup to children from Bon Air School from the first mobile canteen for Chesterfield County, 1942.

Mrs. Tazewell Perrow served soup to children from Bon Air School from the first mobile canteen for Chesterfield County, 1942.

The canteen also served a test “disaster supper” at the Bon Air Community House later that week. The mobile kitchen would be used to feed civilians in case of a disaster involving more than five families.

#148 Mrs. J. Scott Parrish Jr., Gordon Sheain and Joe Brown examined a mobile kitchen that was part of the Red Cross Canteen Corps in Richmond, 1943.

Mrs. J. Scott Parrish Jr., Gordon Sheain and Joe Brown examined a mobile kitchen that was part of the Red Cross Canteen Corps in Richmond, 1943.

Red Cross members would use the canteens to feed soldiers; they practiced by feeding large groups at Richmond-area churches, parks and events. The $1,795 canteen was made possible through proceeds from a city scrap metal drive directed by Sheain and donations from WRVA listeners of Brown’s “Okay America” program. Parrish led the Red Cross canteen committee.

#149 Richmond police considered the issue of cars parking next to the grassy medians of Monument Avenue, 1947.

Richmond police considered the issue of cars parking next to the grassy medians of Monument Avenue, 1947.

The city did not want to mar the beauty of the avenue with signs, even though no parking was permitted. While police strictly ticketed violators on weekdays, exceptions were made for churchgoers on Sunday mornings.

#150 The newly remodeled interior of Monument Methodist Church in Richmond, 1940.

The newly remodeled interior of Monument Methodist Church in Richmond, 1940.

The new pulpit had a mural depicting the “Ascension of Christ,” which was the work of Reinhold Fobian, a Danish artist of New York, and Hans Peter Hansen of New England. The remodeling was done by Mrs. James E. Crass as a memorial to her husband.

#151 Richmond Mayor W. Stirling King threw out the first pitch at the Richmond Colts home opener at Mooers Field, 1949.

Richmond Mayor W. Stirling King threw out the first pitch at the Richmond Colts home opener at Mooers Field, 1949.

At right, wearing the new home uniform, is Colts manager Vinnie Smith. At left is Ray Schalk, manager of the Newport News Dodgers. The Colts won the Piedmont League game 6-5.

#152 Team owner Eddie Mooers standing outside his baseball park, 1949.

Team owner Eddie Mooers standing outside his baseball park, 1949.

Located at Norfolk and Roseneath streets, Mooers Field hosted the Richmond Colts from 1942 through 1953. Mooers then converted the field into a stock car racetrack for a time before it was sold and dismantled in the late 1950s.

#153 Mooers Field, with grass throughout the infield but dirt beyond, 1946.

Mooers Field, with grass throughout the infield but dirt beyond, 1946.

Located at Norfolk and Roseneath streets, Mooers Field hosted the Richmond Colts from 1942 through 1953. Eddie Mooers then converted the field into a stock car racetrack for a time before it was sold and dismantled in the late 1950s. 3-7-1946: 'And the green grass grows all around' - the infield. But the Mooers Field outfield is mighty barren these days.

#154 Families and city officials attended a program at the Mosque pool in Richmond, which had just opened for the season, 1948.

Families and city officials attended a program at the Mosque pool in Richmond, which had just opened for the season, 1948.

Highlights included a synchronized swimming exhibition as well as swim safety instruction. The pool was in the basement of what is known today as the Altria Theater.

#155 James Q. Jones took his male donkey on a two-week breeding circuit through Goochland, Louisa and Hanover counties. Jones “bugled his brains out” on his Boy Scout bugle to alert nearby horse owners and members of the League for Planned Mule Parenthood of his arrival, 1946.

#156 The old-fashioned way the Pamunkey Indians in King William County cured the shad they caught, 1941.

The old-fashioned way the Pamunkey Indians in King William County cured the shad they caught, 1941.

The fish were split in half, cleaned thoroughly and nailed on boards, upon which they were allowed to dry. At intervals, salt was sprinkled over the curing fish. At the time, shad was the most valuable commercial food fish in Virginia waters.

#157 A woman tried to pick up a nickel from the sidewalk near Ninth and Broad streets in downtown Richmond – but it was a long-lasting prank, 1948.

A woman tried to pick up a nickel from the sidewalk near Ninth and Broad streets in downtown Richmond – but it was a long-lasting prank, 1948.

For April Fools’ Day months earlier, the firefighters at Engine Co. 3 had embedded the coin so no one could pick it up. They had been pulling a coin prank for eight or nine years, and usually someone would eventually pry it loose. For the nickel, some days could see nearly 100 people try to claim the coin.

#158 Mrs. Frank Sloan of the Red Cross took dictation from soldier Robert Parks in the convalescent ward at the Camp Lee Hospital in Prince George County, 1941.

Mrs. Frank Sloan of the Red Cross took dictation from soldier Robert Parks in the convalescent ward at the Camp Lee Hospital in Prince George County, 1941.

She was among two dozen women from the Richmond and Tri-Cities areas who had just become Gray Ladies, a hospital volunteer branch of the Red Cross.

#159 A portable drilling rig was set up in an oil field in Lee County in Southwest Virginia, 1947.

A portable drilling rig was set up in an oil field in Lee County in Southwest Virginia, 1947.

During the decade, Lee was home to about 70 oil and gas test wells that had been drilled in the region.

#160 The old Manchester water works at the foot of 22nd Street in South Richmond was within months of being dismantled, 1948.

The old Manchester water works at the foot of 22nd Street in South Richmond was within months of being dismantled, 1948.

The plant was built in the 1890s when Richmond and Manchester were twin cities — they consolidated in 1910, and the structure was abandoned in 1914 after Richmond extended a water main into the area.

#161 Frances Butler (right) and Mrs. John Gerlach were first- and second-place winners, respectively, of an “old-fashioned swimsuit” contest during an outing for Thalhimers employees at Swift Creek in Chesterfield County, 1941.

Frances Butler (right) and Mrs. John Gerlach were first- and second-place winners, respectively, of an “old-fashioned swimsuit” contest during an outing for Thalhimers employees at Swift Creek in Chesterfield County, 1941.

More than 400 people attended the last in what was a weekly series of summertime picnics.

#162 An organ grinder and his monkey entertained a young girl at the State Fair, held at the Atlantic Rural Exposition fairgrounds, 1949.

An organ grinder and his monkey entertained a young girl at the State Fair, held at the Atlantic Rural Exposition fairgrounds, 1949.

The fair’s array of exhibits and events included motorcycle races, driving safety instruction from the state police and displays of the latest household inventions.

#163 Pamunkey Indians returning with a catch of several dozen shad to the tribe’s King William County reservation, 1941.

Pamunkey Indians returning with a catch of several dozen shad to the tribe’s King William County reservation, 1941.

At the time, shad was the most valuable commercial food fish in Virginia waters. Sometimes as many as 1,000 fish were caught by the tribe in a 24-hour period.202 About 20,000 pounds of paper was collected in a drive at Dumbarton Elementary School in Henrico County, with Edward O'Brien (from left), Leroy Foster and Thomas Riggan in charge, 1947. The paper was sold, with proceeds used to purchase library books and other materials for students. The previous year, paper-drive money purchased a mimeographing machine for teacher use.

#165 Richmond staged its first parade since the United States entered World War II

Richmond staged its first parade since the United States entered World War II

It honored 110 Virginia aviation cadets who were to be sworn in at the state Capitol at the conclusion of the event, 1942. The parade included a battalion of 1,000 troops from Fort Lee as well as several color guards, including the American Legion color guard seen here.

#166 East Main Street in downtown Richmond between First and Second streets reflected a parking ban that aimed to speed streetcar service, 1942.

East Main Street in downtown Richmond between First and Second streets reflected a parking ban that aimed to speed streetcar service, 1942.

The ban was in effect from 7 to 9:30 a.m. and 4 to 6 p.m. – though one car in the distance was parked illegally.

#167 Thalhimers was allowing nighttime use of part of this parking area, at Seventh and East Grace streets downtown, as the Parking Lot Canteen, a place for service members to spend their evenings dancing under the stars, 1943.

Thalhimers was allowing nighttime use of part of this parking area, at Seventh and East Grace streets downtown, as the Parking Lot Canteen, a place for service members to spend their evenings dancing under the stars, 1943.

The dance pavilion project was financed by the Richmond War and Community Fund. Included in the experience were complimentary refreshments – and hostesses available as dancing partners for those who didn't bring their own dates.

#168 Henrico County police seized 20 pinball machines and made multiple arrests as part of a countywide raid, 1946.

Henrico County police seized 20 pinball machines and made multiple arrests as part of a countywide raid, 1946.

The coin-operated machines were licensed for amusement only, but they had money drawers that collected from and dispensed to patrons.

#169 A power line on Brook Road was a tangled mess of wires after a lightning strike during a storm, 1949.

A power line on Brook Road was a tangled mess of wires after a lightning strike during a storm, 1949.

About 15,000 homes in Ginter Park, Lakeside and nearby areas lost power, though it was restored within an hour.

#170 Dot Perkins led a dance class in “the hut” at the Powhatan Hill playground in Richmond.

Dot Perkins led a dance class in “the hut” at the Powhatan Hill playground in Richmond.

The playground received the Quonset hut, a semicircular structure made out of corrugated metal, in 1947 after city officials authorized using $15,000 to erect it. It quickly became a center of extracurricular activities for area children.

#171 Richmond’s Baths – The city keeps a close watch on the Grace Arents’ baths on Oregon Hill, which cost $4,500 yearly to operate, 1949.

#172 The Quiz Kids learned about railroading from RF&P engineer C.W. Shackleford (rear) during their visit to Richmond to help sell war bonds during World War II, 1943.

The Quiz Kids learned about railroading from RF&P engineer C.W. Shackleford (rear) during their visit to Richmond to help sell war bonds during World War II, 1943.

The youths – Richard Williams (from left), Harvey Fischman and Gerard Darrow – were part of a national radio and TV series in which children with high IQs answered questions from listeners. The show was broadcast on NBC in the 1940s and ‘50s.

#173 Richmond midget car driver Cary Williams (in white T-shirt) and mechanic Charles Nigro pushed out the new Ford-Kurtiscraft car, which Nigro built, in preparation for racing at Richmond Stadium Speedway, 1947.

#174 The Richmond News Leader published a photo essay titled “Working … on the railroad,” which featured laborers on the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway, 1940.

The Richmond News Leader published a photo essay titled “Working … on the railroad,” which featured laborers on the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway, 1940.

This image shows motor cars being lifted off the tracks at the end of the day, while the cook in the kitchen car in the background signals that it’s dinnertime.

#175 E.W. Saunders, a clerk at R.L. Christian & Co. in downtown Richmond, showed Mrs. L.E. Barber how to use ration tokens, 1944.

E.W. Saunders, a clerk at R.L. Christian & Co. in downtown Richmond, showed Mrs. L.E. Barber how to use ration tokens, 1944.

The tokens were used during World War II to purchase rationed goods, which in the Richmond area included food, liquor, rubber and gasoline.

#176 A. Edward Campbell, state campaign manager for the United Service Organization, stood beside his new car, 1942.

A. Edward Campbell, state campaign manager for the United Service Organization, stood beside his new car, 1942.

His purchase was the first car sale since Richmond began a car rationing program as part of the war effort during World War II.

#177 Mrs. St. George Bryan and Mrs. Lawrence Price helped pack more than 1,000 sweaters, socks, afghans and other items knitted by Richmond volunteers, which were being sent to the Red Cross “Mercy Ship” that sailed in June to deliver war relief to Europeans.

#178 Richmond women participated in a Red Cross swimming program to practice personal safety, rescue and resuscitation methods, 1943.

#179 Teenagers visited the newly reopened Main Street Station Dining Room in Richmond, which was closed for a month to allow for remodeling required by the city, 1943.

Teenagers visited the newly reopened Main Street Station Dining Room in Richmond, which was closed for a month to allow for remodeling required by the city, 1943.

During that period, the Red Cross stepped in to supply food to World War II servicemen passing through the terminal.

#180 The restaurant at a Peoples Drug Store in Richmond was bustling, 1943.

The restaurant at a Peoples Drug Store in Richmond was bustling, 1943.

The chain was founded in 1905 in Alexandria, and by 1943, there were six locations in the Richmond area, plus one in Petersburg. Many of them had lunch counters.

#181 A Richmond Colts batter headed to first base while a teammate scored in a victory over the Norfolk Tars in a Piedmont League game at Tate Field, which was on Mayo Island in Richmond, 1940.

#182 Smoldering embers and charred, jagged walls were all that remained of the Dunlop Mills in South Richmond, 1949.

Smoldering embers and charred, jagged walls were all that remained of the Dunlop Mills in South Richmond, 1949.

The two brick buildings, which had survived damage during the Civil War, were lost to the fire, which took more than 200 firemen six hours to put out.

#183 Guard Herbert Barr fed the elk at the Army’s Richmond Quartermaster Depot at Bellwood in Chesterfield County, 1946.

Guard Herbert Barr fed the elk at the Army’s Richmond Quartermaster Depot at Bellwood in Chesterfield County, 1946.

The land was purchased by James Bellwood in 1877, and he brought in a pair of elk from his native Canada to feel more at home. By 1941, when the Army purchased the land from Bellwood’s sons, there were 11 elk, and the sons were more concerned with the welfare of the elk than the transfer of the land. The Army agreed to take care of the elk and continues to do so to this day. The Army's elk brigade - and they can't be discharged. Herbert R. Barr, guard at the Richmond General Depot, feeds his charges.

#184 The dedication ceremony was held for Richmond’s new deepwater terminal, 1940.

The dedication ceremony was held for Richmond’s new deepwater terminal, 1940.

The USS O’Brien, a recently commissioned Navy destroyer, had docked at the terminal a day earlier for the occasion.

#185 Robert E. Lee Camp Confederate Soldiers’ Home, 1941

Robert E. Lee Camp Confederate Soldiers’ Home, 1941

The Robert E. Lee Camp Confederate Soldiers’ Home was closed after the last resident died. This was the scene when demolition of the buildings began, with one of the cannons visible at the facility at the corner of Grove Avenue and the Boulevard in Richmond. At one time there were at least eight cannons, and today one remains outside the former chapel, across from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

#186 Erma Castillo Najera, daughter of the Mexican ambassador to the United States, was the queen of the Rockingham National Turkey Festival in Harrisonburg, 1940.

Erma Castillo Najera, daughter of the Mexican ambassador to the United States, was the queen of the Rockingham National Turkey Festival in Harrisonburg, 1940.

Najera traveled the streets on one of the more than 30 floats during the festival parade, after which the queen and the members of her court attended a dinner with town officials. A turkey ball was held at the Spotswood Country Club to close the two-day celebration.

#187 Richmond teens put on their roller skates at the Cavalier Arena with some help from city recreation department employee Jane Hemby, 1948.

Richmond teens put on their roller skates at the Cavalier Arena with some help from city recreation department employee Jane Hemby, 1948.

The department held Wednesday afternoon skating parties at the rink, which opened in June 1941 and was at MacTavish Avenue and West Marshall Street in Richmond’s West End.

#188 Richmond teens put on their roller skates at the Cavalier Arena with some help from city recreation department employee Jane Hemby, 1948.

Richmond teens put on their roller skates at the Cavalier Arena with some help from city recreation department employee Jane Hemby, 1948.

The department held Wednesday afternoon skating parties at the rink, which opened in June 1941 and was at MacTavish Avenue and West Marshall Street in Richmond’s West End.

#189 Manpower and a cart were a means of transporting new books to the Rosa D. Bowser Branch of the Richmond library during the gas-rationing days of World War II, 1942.

Manpower and a cart were a means of transporting new books to the Rosa D. Bowser Branch of the Richmond library during the gas-rationing days of World War II, 1942.

Bowser was a prominent African-American educator and social activist in Richmond from the 1880s to the 1920s. The branch was the city library’s first that was opened to African-Americans.

#190 Writer Emma Speed Sampson worked at her desk in her Richmond home, 1942.

Writer Emma Speed Sampson worked at her desk in her Richmond home, 1942.

Sampson’s career as a well-known writer began later in life, at age 45. Her work included continuing several book series, including “Miss Minerva,” “Molly Brown,” and the Bluebird Books (“Mary Louise”) line that originated with L. Frank Baum under a pseudonym. She even wrote features for the Richmond Times-Dispatch for several years.

#191 As the school year started, Dick Harvey gave a playful tug to Sue Gallegher’s pigtails, 1948.

As the school year started, Dick Harvey gave a playful tug to Sue Gallegher's pigtails, 1948.

The new year saw an unexpected boom in registrations across the area. Bellmeade and Summer Hill schools on the Petersburg Pike saw such an increase that they considered adding staff and operating classes on two shifts.

#192 Virginia newspaper publishers sponsored a three-week scrap metal drive to aid the war effort, 1942.

Virginia newspaper publishers sponsored a three-week scrap metal drive to aid the war effort, 1942.

Here, workmen removed decorative lights – installed in 1924 and made mostly of cast iron, weighing 317 pounds each – from the front of the Richmond Newspapers building to add to the heap. Richmond exceeded its goal of collecting 15 million pounds of scrap.

#193 Richmond firefighters (from left) Charles Donnini, I.A. Butler and W.C. Gilman helped collect aluminum from Richmonders, 1941.

Richmond firefighters (from left) Charles Donnini, I.A. Butler and W.C. Gilman helped collect aluminum from Richmonders, 1941.

Scrap metal drives were a popular way to support national defense and war preparation efforts.

#194 A new sign indicated the nearby Patrick Henry School along Semmes Avenue approaching Forest Hill Avenue in South Richmond, 1949.

#195 Sergeant Jack Blizzard, 1941

Sergeant Jack Blizzard, 1941

“Sergeant Jack” Blizzard at the Robert E. Lee Camp Confederate Soldiers’ Home in Richmond. Blizzard, who served as courier for Gen. Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson during the Civil War, was its last resident. After he died in early 1941, the home was closed, and the land at the corner of Grove Avenue and the Boulevard reverted to the state. One of the home’s cannons remains outside the former chapel, across from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

#196 Timothy Byrum, lay pastor of Seven Pines Baptist Church, purchased a chapel on the Richmond Army Air Base from the War Assets Administration for $750, 1947.

Timothy Byrum, lay pastor of Seven Pines Baptist Church, purchased a chapel on the Richmond Army Air Base from the War Assets Administration for $750, 1947.

The church, in existence since 1890, lost its chapel in 1940 when the government took it under eminent domain for expansion of the base. The new chapel was to be moved to a site east of Sandston on Highway 60 where the congregation had been worshipping through the World War II period.

#197 85-year-old B.W. Partee (seated), caretaker at Camp Shawondasee in Chesterfield County for 26 years, was ready to retire, 1947.

85-year-old B.W. Partee (seated), caretaker at Camp Shawondasee in Chesterfield County for 26 years, was ready to retire, 1947.

He was known as a storyteller, and here, he entertained E.G. McDowell, field executive of the Richmond Boy Scouts Council. Shawondasee closed in 1965 after more than 50 years serving Scouts in the region. The next year, the YMCA purchased the land, and its Camp Thunderbird still operates there.

#198 Boy Scouts enjoying the lake at Camp Shawondasee in Chesterfield County, 1948.

Boy Scouts enjoying the lake at Camp Shawondasee in Chesterfield County, 1948.

In May 1965, the camp shut its doors after more than 50 years serving Scouts in the region. The urbanization of Chesterfield around it, limited drinking water and a lake that didn’t hold up to a whole summer of campers led the Scouts to find a new location in Goochland County. The next year, the YMCA purchased the land, and its Camp Thunderbird still operates there today.

#199 Shoppers waited outside a Hofheimer’s shoe store on East Broad Street in downtown Richmond, eager to use their No. 17 ration coupon before it expired, 1943.

Shoppers waited outside a Hofheimer’s shoe store on East Broad Street in downtown Richmond, eager to use their No. 17 ration coupon before it expired, 1943.

Shoes were among the items rationed during World War II because of shortages of leather and rubber. In the two days before the coupon expired, Richmond shoe businesses saw thousands of customers deplete their inventories.

#200 Aaron Hyman repaired a shoe in his Richmond store. With wartime shoe rationing, cobblers were swamped with business for repairs, 1943.

Aaron Hyman repaired a shoe in his Richmond store. With wartime shoe rationing, cobblers were swamped with business for repairs, 1943.

Hyman said that since the rationing began, his business had doubled.

#201 3,000 Shriners staged a parade downtown as part of the 60th anniversary celebration for Richmond’s ACCA Temple, 1946.

3,000 Shriners staged a parade downtown as part of the 60th anniversary celebration for Richmond’s ACCA Temple, 1946.

Nearly 300 candidates for admission to the temple were present for induction rites at the event. Here, the Richmond Guard of Honor marched in the parade.

#202 Traffic jam at 6th street market, looking south from Marshall St., 1946

#203 The Buyer’s Resistance Group, mostly made up of housewives, had been organizing a boycott of local meat markets, such as this one at the Sixth Street Market in Richmond, to attempt to bring down prices, 1948.

#204 The old Sixth Street Market in downtown Richmond, 1948.

The old Sixth Street Market in downtown Richmond, 1948.

When it was demolished in 1964 to make way for a parking garage, two of the ornamental terra cotta bulls that lined the top of the awning were relocated to the 17th Street Market.

#205 Beverly Horsley, a Miller & Rhoads fashion model, choose vegetables from a lavish display at the Sixth Street Market as part of Style Marches On, a weeklong celebration of new fall fashion in the downtown Richmond retail district, 1948.

#206 The exterior of the Sixth Street Market’s meat building, built in the mid-1800s.

The exterior of the Sixth Street Market’s meat building, built in the mid-1800s.

The market itself started in the early 19th century. In the mid-1960s, the meat building, with its 42 decorative bull heads, was torn down to make way for a parking lot. Most of the bull heads were salvaged and auctioned, and the market continued in the first floor of the Blue Armory building and in various stalls along the street for another 20 years.

#207 The Sixth Street Market in Richmond had an abundance of locally grown produce, 1948.

The Sixth Street Market in Richmond had an abundance of locally grown produce, 1948.

Hanover tomatoes were 10 cents a pound, Crozet peaches were 2 pounds for 35 cents, and butterbeans were 70 cents a pint. Local melons were not available, and the watermelons from other states cost between 50 cents and $1, down from $2 earlier in the season. Other local vegetable prices included carrots for 10 cents a bunch, cucumbers for 5 cents each, cabbage at 5 cents per pound, and squash at 15 cents for 2 pounds.

#208 The Richmond skyline was published in the Richmond News Leader as a comparison with a sketch of the same skyline that was published in 1901 in the Evening Leader, 1947.

#209 Children hit the sleds at Bryan Park in Richmond to take advantage of a snow day, 1947.

Children hit the sleds at Bryan Park in Richmond to take advantage of a snow day, 1947.

Snow and sleet had covered Virginia – some areas of the state received as much as 27 inches.

#210 Grace Street near Fourth Street after Jan. 23 and Jan. 24, 1940, snowfall, measured at 21.6 inches at airport.

#211 Richmond News Leader reporter Merritt K. Ruddock rides Belle the mule from Bon Air to downtown Richmond on Jan. 25, 1940, after 21.6-inch snowfall paralyzed the region.

#212 Library’s cornerstone laid: Scenes here were snapped as state and city notables gathered yesterday for cornerstone-laying ceremonies at the new State Library Building, 1940.

Library's cornerstone laid: Scenes here were snapped as state and city notables gathered yesterday for cornerstone-laying ceremonies at the new State Library Building, 1940.

This is a general view of the speakers' platform as the foundation stone was swung into place.

#213 State toxicologist Sidney Kaye tested blood for lead poisoning, 1949.

State toxicologist Sidney Kaye tested blood for lead poisoning, 1949.

He joined the chief medical examiner’s office in 1947 after working in the St. Louis police department’s research lab.

#214 Virginia farmers focused their eyes on two mules that were among 169 sold at the annual auction at the Richmond Stockyards, 1949.

Virginia farmers focused their eyes on two mules that were among 169 sold at the annual auction at the Richmond Stockyards, 1949.

The average price of $157.78 was down about $25 from the previous year. The top sale brought $610; the lowest, only $35.

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Written by Kevin Clark

Kevin Clark is a historian and writer who is passionate about sharing the stories and significance behind historical photos. He loves to explore hidden histories and cultural contexts behind the images, providing a unique insight into the past.

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