Charles A. Hiemenz Photograph Collection

Collection

Identifier: P0981

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

The Charles A. Hiemenz Photograph Collection contains photographs documenting the destruction of the 1927 tornado, as well as a photograph showing children competing in a fashion show.

The bulk of the collection consists of snapshots showing extensive tornado damage to homes and businesses. Several locations are identified, including addresses on West Pine, Westminster, Sarah, and West Bell. Several photographs show African American women and children posing in front of destroyed homes.

One photograph shows young girls competing in a 1915 fashion show for charity. Names are identified on the back, although the handwriting is difficult to read.

Dates

1915; 1927

Creator

Hiemenz, Charles A., III (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

No viewing restrictions.

Conditions Governing Use

Biographical / Historical

On September 29, 1927, the second-deadliest tornado in St. Louis history touched down near Manchester Avenue and Kingshighway. The resulting devastation covered six square miles of the city. 75 people were killed, and approximately 550 were injured. More than 2,500 families were left homeless after hundreds of houses were reduced to rubble.

Extent

0.01 Cubic Feet ( (2 folders))

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Physical Characteristics and Technical Requirements

No physical or technical restrictions.

Immediate Source of Acquisition

Collection donated by Charles A. Hiemenz, III in 2017.

Existence and Location of Copies

Digital copies and item-level records of select images are posted as they are created and can be accessed through the Online Collections on the Missouri Historical Society website (mohistory.org/collections).

Digitized images are generated from the original item whenever possible and files are adjusted only to ensure an accurate representation. Master files are saved in TIF format and JPEG viewing files are automatically generated from the master files.