Jitterbugging in Juke Joint 1939

Marion Post Wolcott’s 1939 photograph, “Jitterbugging in Juke Joint”, depicts a lively scene of Black Americans dancing in a juke joint. The image captures the energy and joy of a social gathering, as the dancers move with abandon, their bodies in motion against the backdrop of the dimly lit room. Wolcott, a renowned documentary photographer, was known for her sensitive portrayals of everyday life, particularly among marginalized communities. “Jitterbugging in Juke Joint” exemplifies her commitment to capturing the human experience with authenticity and empathy.