Who was Lewis Hine? 

Photographer. Artist. Progressive. Photojournalist. Teacher. Husband. Father. Friend.

Though known today for his raw and moving photos of child workers in the early twentieth century, Lewis Wickes Hine was a fascinating, talented person who had a career in photography and photojournalism well into the 1930s.

Hine’s early life in the bustling city of Oshkosh gave him a foundation for his artistry and social activism. He moved from his hometown at age twenty-six to pursue a career in teaching. After learning the camera and becoming his school’s photographer, he turned his lens to documenting social issues. His work for the National Child Labor Committee brought attention to the horrors of child labor, which helped advocate for the eventual passing of child labor laws in the United States. His later career centered on documenting adults at work—sharing the skill and importance of the working class.

Hine's photography has been admired for its artistic and technical skill. These remarkable images are the product of a quietly brilliant, witty and thoughtful man. Through a one-of-a-kind collection of personal items and original art, get to know "Lew"--the man behind the camera.