Hemlock Forest c. 1895

"Hemlock Forest," a photograph by William H. Rau, captures a railroad track winding through a dense forest. The image, taken around 1895, showcases the artist's fascination with the natural world. The railway line disappears into the distance, creating a sense of depth and mystery. Rau's work, often characterized by a fine-grained detail and evocative landscapes, exemplifies the pictorialist movement in photography. The image provides a glimpse into the untouched forests of the American West, offering a window into a bygone era of westward expansion and industrial development.