Intro and disclaimer

Lewis

Watson

Photographer

Lewis P. Watson was born in Ridge Spring, SC in 1905. His parents were farmers and this led him to obtain his Bachelors degree in Agriculture from Clemson University and his Masters degree from Michigan State University. For a number of years, he worked as a Horticultural Specialist for the NC Ag. Extension Service on the campus of NC State University. When he became involved in producing publications for this department, he used his own photographs to illustrate them. His darkroom was a closet in his home.

After taking a course in commerical photography, he resigned as Extension Specialist and opened a studio at 1916 1/2 Hillsborough Street. With his wife running the office, he concentrated on agricultural subjects, construction and architectural firms and a limited amount of portrait photography.

After Mr. Watson's death in 1996, the family presented the entire collection of some 10,000 negatives and hundreds of prints to the Olivia Raney Library.

These photographs are currently being scanned and entered into a computer to facilitate research. Many of these photographs are of particular interest to historians or genealogists.

WATSON COLLECTION

Disclaimer

The images on the Olivia Raney Library web site have been placed there for historical research purposes. They do not necessarily reflect the official position of the Olivia Raney Library or Wake County Public Libraries. The content of some images may be considered sensitive.

All of the images are protected by copyright. The user must assume any and all responsibility for obtaining appropriate permission for use or assurance of adherence to copyright restriction from the Olivia Raney Library. Persons accessing these images assume full responsibility for their use and understand and agree that the Olivia Raney Library is not responsible or liable for any claim, loss, or damage arising from the use of these images.