Mathilda Ranch facts for kids
Mathilda Ranch (born 1860, died 1938) was a pioneering female photographer from Sweden. She had her own photography studio in Varberg, a town in south-western Sweden. Mathilda took thousands of pictures during her career. Many of these photos are still kept safe today. You can find them at the Halland Museum of Cultural History.
Biography
Mathilda Ranch was born on June 23, 1860. Her birthplace was Copenhagen, Denmark. Her father, Wilhelm Ranch, was also a photographer and an engineer.
When Mathilda was 10 years old, her family moved to Sweden. They first lived in Gothenburg. Later, they settled in Varberg. In 1871, her father opened a photography studio there.
Becoming a Photographer
In 1882, when Mathilda was just 22, her father gave her the studio. He decided to work as a shipping agent instead. Mathilda quickly showed she was very talented. She was not only a great photographer but also a successful businesswoman.
She soon opened more studios in other towns. These included Slöinge, Horred, and Kungsbacka. Mathilda hired up to five people to help her. Most of her employees were women.
Her Work and Legacy
Mathilda Ranch took many different kinds of photos. She captured portraits of people and beautiful wedding pictures. She also photographed landscapes and streets in Varberg. Her work included exciting events. She took pictures of train accidents and air shows. She even photographed royal visits!
Mathilda also worked for newspapers. Her photos appeared in Hvar 8:e Dag. She also contributed to a tourist magazine. It was called Svenska Turistföreningens årsskrift.
Mathilda Ranch was also a strong supporter of women's rights. She believed that "kvinnor kan," which means "women can." She fought for women to have equal opportunities. Mathilda Ranch passed away in Varberg on June 11, 1938.
Gallery
- Photographs by Mathilda Ranch
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Varberg Church
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Varberg harbour around 1900
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Varberg beach (postcard)
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Varberg market square
