You’ve Probably Seen this Photo of Young Oyster Shuckers Girls, but Do You Know the Story Behind It?

Unveiling History: The Story Behind the Iconic Oyster Shuckers of Port Royal, SC

A century-old photograph featuring young girls diligently shucking oysters in the quaint town of Port Royal, South Carolina, has captivated the internet’s attention in recent times. However, the image is more than just a glimpse into the past; it’s a crucial chapter in the ongoing saga of child labor reform in the United States.

The snapshot in question, dating back to February 1912, is credited to Lewis Wickes Hine, a renowned sociologist and photographer of his time. Hine’s photographic endeavors played an instrumental role in galvanizing child labor law reforms, reshaping the course of history for countless young Americans.

Bertha, 6 years old – her job as a shucker begins at 4AM. • Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress

Hine’s unique approach to documenting child labor often involved assuming various disguises to infiltrate workplaces where children toiled in hazardous conditions. He posed as a Bible salesman, a postcard vendor, or a photographer commissioned to capture the machinery used in these industries. His undercover work shed light on the grim realities faced by child laborers and helped rally support for change.

In addition to his exposure of child labor, Hine’s photographic legacy includes the iconic documentation of the construction of the Empire State Building, a symbol of American ambition and progress. His work continues to inspire photographers and historians alike, earning him a place in the International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum.

However, the young oyster shuckers of Port Royal, SC, were just one part of Hine’s larger mission. His project extended from the bustling cities of the Northeast to the heart of the Deep South, where he tirelessly documented child labor in various industries. These captivating photos, featuring children hard at work, serve as a poignant reminder of a bygone era.

Josie, six years old, Bertha, six years old, Sophie, 10 years old. • Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress

In the specific case of Port Royal, Hine’s lens focused on children laboring for the Maggioni Canning Co., a company that still operates today. These images encapsulate the stark reality of a time when child labor was pervasive, and young lives were sacrificed in the name of economic progress.

As the photograph continues to make its rounds on the internet, it serves as a powerful testament to the efforts of Lewis Wickes Hine and others who fought tirelessly to end child labor in the United States. It reminds us of the progress that has been made and the importance of continuing to protect the rights and well-being of our nation’s children.