Edward Elcha facts for kids

William Edward Elcha (born 1885 – died November 3, 1939) was an American photographer. He became well-known for his pictures of performers and famous people during the Jazz Age in New York City. He especially focused on Broadway shows and the vibrant culture of Harlem in the 1920s and 1930s. His photographs are now kept in important collections, like the Harry Ransom Center. He also worked with Percy Tappin, and their studio took a photo of the Jenkins Orphanage Band from Charleston, South Carolina, which is now at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Early Life of William Elcha

William Elcha was born and grew up in Springfield, Massachusetts. His father, also named William, worked as a waiter at the Haynes Hotel. His mother, Cornelia A. Vandall, was a painter.

Elcha's Photography Career

William Elcha started his photography journey by learning from George Van Norman, a photographer in Springfield. In 1913, he opened his very own studio.

Two years later, in 1915, he joined Aime Dupont Studio in Manhattan. This studio was famous for taking portraits of performing artists. After working there for two years, he moved to Bachrach Studio and then to Strand Studio in 1918.

In 1920, Elcha partnered with J. Montanya. Later, he became the New York staff photographer for the Pittsburgh Courier newspaper. Throughout his career, Elcha had several other studios and partnerships.

Capturing the Jazz Age

Elcha was great at capturing the exciting energy of Jazz Age New York City. He photographed many performers and social events. He married jazz singer Mary Elcha. He was also good friends with another famous photographer, James VanDerZee.

Elcha photographed many well-known figures of his time. These included Bessie Smith and even her funeral procession. He also took pictures of Helene Denizon, Kay Hamilton, Don Dickerman, Eva Tanguay, and Johnny Hudgins. In the summer of 1928, he became the official photographer for the Majestic Theatrical Circuit. He also ran a studio called Progress Studio.

William Elcha passed away on November 3, 1939, from a heart attack at his home.

Elcha's Legacy

Years later, photographer Anthony Barboza researched Elcha's work. He wrote an article about Elcha, featuring many of his photos, in American Legacy magazine in 2007. This helped more people learn about William Elcha's important contributions to photography.