A Forgotten Photographer of Mt. Hood
Not as well known as some of her contemporaries, Jennie Welch deserves recognition as one of Mt. Hood’s early photographers.
Today, nearly everyone is a photographer. With cell phones in hand, we capture moments effortlessly. In 2018, taking a photo of friends, family, or scenic places requires little thought. A century ago, photography was far more challenging. Cameras were bulky, film was expensive, and results were unpredictable. Photographers had to wait days—or even weeks—to see their images unless they developed them at home. Yet, despite these challenges, photography enthusiasts persisted.
The Role of Early Photographers
At the turn of the 20th century, photographers ranged from professionals to hobbyists with home darkrooms. Many traveled door to door, offering their services to those without cameras. They captured portraits, family gatherings, homes, pets, and prized possessions like new automobiles.
Postcards became a popular way to share photographs. Many people ordered prints on postcard backs, making it easy to send images to distant friends and family. Souvenir shops also stocked photo postcards of local landmarks. For tourists, buying a postcard was often easier than dealing with film and cameras.
Some photographers became well-known for their work, producing thousands of postcards. Others, like Jennie Welch, remained more obscure. Instead of mass-producing postcards, she created just enough to sell in local gift shops and country stores. One such place was Billy Welch’s Hotel.
Jennie Welch: Postmaster and Photographer
In 1905, Billy Welch established the Welches Post Office at his ranch, serving as postmaster. He later married Jennie Faubion, the daughter of Oregon Trail pioneers and local homesteaders. In 1940, Jennie became the Welches postmaster, holding the position until 1960.
Jennie had a deep love for antiques. She collected early photographic prints, including daguerreotypes, ambrotypes, and tintypes. Her interest in photography extended beyond collecting—she also took photos herself.
A Local Photographer’s Legacy
Although Jennie is mostly remembered for her passion for antiques, few realize she was one of the first local photographers in Welches. She took photographs and likely had them developed and printed as postcards for sale in the Welches Store and Post Office. Unlike other photographers who produced high volumes, Jennie made only a small number. Today, her postcards are rare, often going unnoticed until a keen-eyed collector identifies one.
Despite her lack of widespread recognition, Jennie Welch should be included in the history of early 20th-century female photographers. Her photos capture the history and beauty of Welches, preserving scenes that would otherwise be lost to time.
A Lasting Impact
Today, Jennie’s photos are considered rare and collectible. The era of postcard photography and traveling photography salesmen has long passed, but their work remains. Thanks to photographers like Jennie Welch, the history of Mt. Hood and its communities lives on.
