Solomon Butcher – Had studio in
Kearney with his son for a couple of years shortly after 1900
A. T. Anderson – Born in Sweden, father had wagon & carriage
manufacturing business in Kearney (freight wagons). Apprenticed at 16 to J.
A. Stridborg (1881). 5 years later he started his own studio. Commissioned
to take pictures of houses and industries during the Boom Period
John Stryker – Born in 1883 in Rockford, Ill, 2nd of 4 boys.
Came to McCook area 1889.
Little schooling but mother was a former teacher.
Tall, robust, thick red hair, believed in daily exercise even into 80’s.
Went to an Academy (like high school) at about 19. Introduced to Penmanship.
Attended Zaner Art College (Zanerian School of Penmanship) in Ohio.
Zaner said he was one of his best students.
Elementary teachers couldn’t get certificate without certificate in Palmer
method of handwriting. Stryker hired as penmanship instructor at Kearney
Normal School in 1909
Philosophy – students work better if their work is pleasant – told stories
in class, noted homesick students.
Started taking pictures in 1916. Annual improved in 1917
1919 – Married Elsie Johnson, penmanship supervisor in North Platte public
schools
Built house across from campus – gray stucco with white trim.
Resigned – replaced by wife – to take pictures, no studio, preferred action
photos
Bird’s eye views – 1923 souvenir booklet – houses and views in Kearney
Rodeos (Roundups) Holdrege 1921 announcing. Hear him ¾ mile away without
mike
Ringling Bros. Circus – Madison Square Gardens
1940 settled in Fort Worth. Took pictures to promote the area. Placemats in
hotel. Framable pictures for hotels & motels.
1969 – Elsie died. Sold business but soon back.
1970 at age 87 on Fort Worth Fire Department snorkel truck to get right
angle to photograph the
Tarrant County Convention Center.