GRAND RAPIDS, Michigan — Grand Rapids is home to a lot of rich history, and it's up to a group of history buffs to keep the records of the past alive.
GF Korreck, a member of the Grand Rapids Historical Commission, uncovered a piece of modern day may have started in West Michigan: the selfie.
“I've seen the picture of this guy, and it’s just the way he’s looking at people, looking right at you in this picture," Korreck said. "Who is this person? I had no idea how old he was or what happened to him.”
In the photo, likely taken in the 1850s, you can see James M. Keeney in a casual pose, with his left hand held to his face. If you look closely, that's where you can find the cord used to take the shot wrapped around his finger.
So Korreck started researching, a search that took him through archives, files, old newspapers and eventually, Google.
He found that Keeney likely came to Grand Rapids in his early 20s. Though he only stayed for a couple of years, he did meet a prominent photographer who helped him snap this shot.
"Things like this, I get fascinated," Korreck said. "You go down a rabbit hole, but it's fun going through these holes."
As for why Keeney took the selfie, Korreck can only assume.
“He was a young man, so maybe he was just having some fun," Korreck said.
History Grand Rapids online has more of these fun finds from West Michigan, including a look at the history of Furniture City.
If you have something you think should be added to their collection, contact the GRPL History Center. You can explore the archives yourself on Level 4 of the main library.
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