Renaming the Forgotten! Can You Help Us Identify These People?

I absolutely love working in the Library’s Local History department. Every day, I get to see fascinating images that capture the people and moments that shaped our community. My job is to make Local History materials accessible for everyone to enjoy and to preserve them for future generations.

The lives of those who came before us weren’t so different from our own. They may not have had the technology that makes our lives easier today, but they experienced joy and hardship, worked hard for their families, and cared deeply for those they loved; just as we do. We post on social media to share that we’re “having a great time” or “not feeling well.” Our ancestors wrote letters and postcards to say the same.

Recently, I’ve come across several stacks of photographs of people whose names have been lost to history. We all have photographs, and with smartphones, it’s easier than ever to capture a moment forever. But what happens when the stories behind those images fade away? As I look at these unknown faces, I can’t help but wonder: Who were they? What were their stories? Whose loved ones might still think of them today?

That’s where you come in.

Our Local History department needs your help! Below is a selection of unidentified photographs from our digital collection. Take a look, ask your family and friends if they recognize anyone, and spread the word.

If you can identify someone, or even yourself, please contact us at localhistory@toledolibrary.org or 419.259.5233. Be sure to include the number listed below the photograph, and share as much or as little information as you’d like.

Together, we can make sure their names and stories live on for generations to come.

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