Alice Austen's extensive archive of over 7,500 original prints and negatives is making its way back to the Alice Austen House, her former home in Staten Island. Originally donated to the Staten Island Historical Society in 1945, the return of her work significantly enriches the historical narrative of her life and contributions as a pioneering female street photographer. Known for documenting the lives of Victorian-era women, Austen lived an independent life with Gertrude Tate, her partner of over 30 years. The house has plans for digitization starting in 2025 to broaden access to Austen's remarkable legacy.
This transfer marks a pivotal moment-not only for our institution, but for the broader cultural landscape-at a time when LGBTQ+ communities face renewed threats of erasure.
Austen was one of the first female photographers to work outside of a studio, hauling her heavy equipment to Manhattan to photograph immigrant populations and the working class.
The addition of the archive only enhances our understanding of the loving, long-term relationship shared by Alice Austen and Gertrude Tate.
The Alice Austen House has announced plans to digitize the archive in its entirety, starting in late 2025, making it accessible to a wider public.
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