Ten photo pairings provide Glimpse into Cincinnati past and present

Cincinnati – A Glimpse from the Past, a collection of 10 "before and after" photos of downtown streetscapes, is now open for viewing at the Betts House through March 31.

Arranged by Chris Smith, reference librarian at the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, with contemporary photography from Alex Bell, the exhibit features such landmarks as the Keith's Theatre Building and the Greyhound Terminal.

Smith is a Cincinnati native who has loved Cincinnati since he can remember, and he's been collecting photos since an early age.

"For years, I would selectively share some of my images with friends in my home," he says.  "One day, I showed a few to Alex and he too, was blown away by what was captured in the pictures and their quality."

After displaying them at the Main Library last July and August, Smith is excited to have them featured at the historic Betts House.

"The pictures mean so much to me and it is a thrill seeing peoples' reactions to them," he says.

Although the photos bring Smith some feelings of sad nostalgia, they also elicit feelings of optimism and joy.

"I do however feel that the city lost a great deal of its charm and history since mid century," he says.  "But, you can also simply look at the pictures and enjoy them for what they are, a piece of America that once was and is a pleasure to see again."

It's also about promoting community pride.

"There is a lot of love 'out there' for this city," Smith says.  "This collection of photos and exhibit is my two cents worth at helping to re-instill or rediscover pride in this beautiful city."

Cincinnati – A Glimpse from the Past can be seen Tuesday through Thursday from 11 AM to 2 PM; from 12:30 PM to 5 PM on January 24-25, February 21-22 and March 21-22; and by appointment.

Prints of the photographs will be available for purchase.

Writer: Kevin LeMaster
Sources: Chris Smith, reference librarian, Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County; Julie Carpenter, executive director, Betts House Research Center
Photography by Scott Beseler