I’m working on a nonfiction picture book biography about a woman named Virginia Minor who lived in St. Louis in the 1880’s and it occurred to me that in my closet I have several very old photo albums that were compiled by family members who lived in St. Louis in the 1880’s. These crumbling, leather-bound volumes are a treasure trove of authentic dresses, hats, gloves, uniforms, and knick-knacks.

The picture included here shows an unnamed relative wearing a fur-trimmed coat and an extraordinary hat. Even more amazing than her outfit is her delightful gaze and half-smile. I wonder what she was thinking about at that moment. Is she eager to please, or ready to burst into rebellious teenage snark? What do you think?

There’s no better way to research a book than to use personal archives!