Gezicht op een kanaal in Dordrecht 1904

James Higson made this photograph of a canal in Dordrecht at the turn of the 20th century. The image presents a tranquil view of the Dutch city, known for its historical importance and waterways. Looking closely, the photograph captures the unique urban landscape of Dordrecht. We see buildings lining the canal, reflecting a blend of residential and commercial activity. Wooden posts jut out from the water, serving as mooring points for boats. The architecture suggests a well-established community, rooted in maritime trade and culture. Dordrecht, as one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, has a rich history shaped by its strategic location and commercial significance. During Higson's time, photography was evolving, and the question of what it meant to represent a city was very much in the air. How to capture it best? As documentary record? Or with an eye to artistic composition? Higson’s photograph captures a moment in time of a city that continues to evolve. Historians can use photographs like these as valuable resources to understand the urban environment, social activities, and economic structures of Dordrecht in the early 1900s.