In 1869, Canadian photographer Alexander Henderson (1831-1913) was commissioned to take a series of photos along the route of the new Grand Trunk Railway between Montreal and Toronto. These images were for a travel book, “All-round Route Guide” to sell to tourists and settlers along the route. This Montreal to Toronto section followed the north shore of the St. Lawrence for most of its route. The railway had opened in 1856 and more routes had been added (to Portland Maine! to Sarnia!) or were planned.
below: Lumberer’s Shanty, Lievre River, Quebec, before 1865
A recent exhibit at Artspace TMU (at 401 Richmond) showcased albumen prints of some of Henderson’s photos along with photos taken by Dawson Cox. All of Cox’s images were mounted on particle board. The exhibit was titled, “Like the Seams of a Coat”.
below: Camera store, corner of Clark and St Antoine, Montreal.
below: Victoria Square, Montreal, about 1872
below: Group shot
below: Group shot, 1870s style – G. Company of 78th Highlanders, taken by Alexander Henderson
Coat seams are usually hidden but they are essential to holding everything together. Important yet unseen.
below: Cox’s photo of torn graffiti on an old brick wall
below: Lake, Saint Bruno Mountain, Quebec, before 1865
below: L’Anse a l’Eau, Saguenay River, Quebec, 1868
as I walk Toronto 