Occupational Portrait of Two African American Chimney Sweeps, between 1860 and 1870

Courtesy of Library of Congress, "Occupational Portrait of Two African American Chimney Sweeps," Charles D. Fredricks & Co., between 1860 and 1870

Description

A chimney sweep is a person who clears ash and soot from chimneys. Chimney sweeping was one of the more difficult, hazardous and low-paying occupations of the time period. In the northern United States, this trade transitioned from primarily white chimney sweeps to African-American "sweep-boys" from the South.

Source-Dependent Questions

Look closely at the photo. What do you notice about the two men?
These two men are chimney sweepers, which is a person who clears ash and soot from chimneys for low wages. Why would this job be hazardous? Why would it pay so little?
After the Civil War, in the northern United States the white chimney sweepers abandoned the profession and African Americans were hired from the South. Think about and discuss why this would take place.

Citation Information

"Occupational Portrait of Two African American Chimney Sweeps," Charles D. Fredricks & Co., between 1860 and 1870. Courtesy of Library of Congress