William Swanson, matroos, 1944 1944

This black and white photograph, “William Swanson, matroos, 1944”, was taken in 1944 by an anonymous photographer. The portrait captures a young man, possibly a sailor, in a white hat and dark uniform, looking directly at the viewer with a slight smile. The image is framed in a red mat, hinting at its personal origins as a memento or keepsake. The small size of the photograph, 59 mm by 46 mm, suggests it was likely intended for a private collection, providing a glimpse into a personal moment in time. The photograph offers a poignant snapshot of a young man during the wartime era, showcasing the importance of personal photography as a historical record of individual experiences during major events.