Newhaven Group 1843 - 1847

David Hill and Robert Adamson captured "Newhaven Group" using calotype photography between 1843 and 1848. This work offers us a glimpse into the lives of the 19th-century Scottish fishing community of Newhaven. Hill and Adamson were pioneers of photography, using their art to document Scottish society. The image presents a group of individuals, each with distinct expressions and attire, reflecting their social roles and identities within the community. The composition subtly underscores the era's power dynamics. The arrangement of figures, from the seated gentleman to the working-class fishermen, suggests a hierarchy. Yet, the photograph also humanizes its subjects, offering a rare portrayal of working-class individuals with dignity and depth. The print invites reflection on the complex interplay between representation, identity, and social class in 19th-century Scotland. The photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of visual records in understanding the layers of historical narratives.