Help Identify Unnamed Woman from Historic Photo Collection

Puke Ariki has launched an initiative to identify a woman featured in an unidentified photograph from its extensive collection. The image is part of a rich archive containing over 110,000 photographs taken by Swainson’s Studios and Bernard Woods Studio in New Plymouth between 1923 and 1997. Many photographs in this collection remain without names or context, and the organization seeks public assistance to shed light on these historical images.

The current photograph can be viewed online at Puke Ariki’s heritage collection site. Those interested in participating in the identification process can access the image directly at this link: https://collection.pukeariki.com/objects/67052/healy-woman.

In addition, last week’s featured photo is also available for viewing: https://collection.pukeariki.com/objects/104562/omata-tennis-club-couple. This ongoing effort highlights the importance of community involvement in preserving local history and ensuring that these individuals are remembered.

For anyone who believes they may recognize the woman in the photograph, Puke Ariki encourages them to reach out via email at [email protected] or by calling the Taranaki Research Centre at (06) 759 5684.

The digital archive of Puke Ariki encompasses a wide array of heritage collections, allowing the public to explore and contribute to the understanding of the region’s history. This initiative not only aims to identify individuals in photographs but also fosters a deeper connection to the past for the community and beyond.

Engagement from the public can lead to significant discoveries, enriching the narrative of the area and ensuring the stories of its residents are not lost over time.