Currently not on view

500 Soldiers, Fort Jay, Governors Island, New York,

1930s-40s

Unknown American photographer
2003-51

In this photograph, five hundred men and women in uniform assemble to form a gigantic A in the field behind Fort Jay on Governor’s Island, New York. The women who constitute the crossbar of the letter may have been members of the Women’s Army Corp, which was formed during World War II. This impressive feat of coordination was likely staged both as an interesting diversion and a demonstration of the participants’ teamwork and discipline.

Information

Title
500 Soldiers, Fort Jay, Governors Island, New York
Dates

1930s-40s

Maker
Unknown American photographer
Medium

Gelatin silver print

Dimensions

image: 19.1 x 24.1 cm (7 1/2 x 9 1/2 in.)
sheet: 20.4 x 25.3 cm (8 1/16 x 9 15/16 in.)

Credit Line

Gift of Donald Lokuta

Object Number
2003-51
Inscription

Stamped in ink, verso upper right: NO OBJECTION TO PUBLICATION / INFORMATION SECTION / HEADQUARTERS FIRST ARMY

Culture