This series of black and white old photos captures the scenery of early Republican Fuzhou, the shipping conditions, and the daily classes and activities at a school for the blind. After the Weibo post, netizens began to share it widely.
It is understood that Sidney David Gambo was an American socio-economist, humanitarian, and photographer, as well as the founder of the Sociology Department at Yenching University. He visited China four times, primarily focusing on the eastern coastal areas and the Yangtze River basin that were forced open after the Second Opium War. In the spring of 1918, he arrived in Fuzhou, at a time when China was undergoing a transformation from a feudal society to a republican government.
Currently, Duke University Library holds approximately 40 photographs he took in Fuzhou, categorized into four types:
First, there are local customs and industries, documenting the geographical conditions and the socio-economic status of Fuzhou during the late Qing and early Republic periods, where rivers and seas converge. Additionally, some depict the main commercial streets and buildings in Fuzhou.
Second, there are institutions related to Western religious organizations, particularly noteworthy is the documentation of the school for the blind in Fuzhou.
Third, there are scenic spots, such as Gushan, Wen Temple, Wanshou Bridge, and the pavilions and towers of Sanfang Qixiang.
Fourth, there are portraits of people, including women with traditional Fuzhou three-pronged hairstyles, well-dressed individuals, and ragged beggars.
