Detective work helps Spartanburg library reveal mystery photo’s origin

What is the story behind this photo donated to the Spartanburg County Public Libraries?

The library knew it was taken in Morgan Square in downtown Spartanburg, but when exactly? Brad Steinecke, with the Spartanburg Library, joined us in studio to talk about the clues hidden in the photograph that helped them pinpoint when it was taken. Steinecke also shares how the resources at the library can be useful to help visitors trace to origins of photographs, documents, and more.

“Surprisingly I came up with a very precise date: mid-March of 1920. The vital clue was close to the bottom left corner: a

movie poster for “Heart o’ the Hills” starring Mary Pickford. That movie played in Spartanburg at the Rex Theatre for only two days, and this would have been made during the very brief interval they were promoting it. Fun detective work! At the Spartanburg County Public Libraries, we have several resources to help you find out more about things like the history of your home, genealogy resources, and so much more, “Steinecke shares.