Celebrated Pacific Northwest photographer Joe Jeffers met a tragic end on Washington's majestic, yet perilous, Mt. Olympus in August 1924 during a photo expedition. This occurred at the height of his brilliant career, a period marked by his widespread recognition for his character, business skills, and artistic talent. By the 1920s, as detailed in my story "THE HISTORY OF THE CELEBRATED PNW PHOTOGRAPHERS OF JEFFERS STUDIO," Chapter III, "SWEET SUCCESS IN THE ROARING TWENTIES," Jeffers was deeply involved in documenting the construction of the new Washington State Capitol Buildings, a significant undertaking and a prestigious contract. Despite this exhilarating time in Washington State history and his sweet taste of success, Joe Jeffers would not live to see this historic commission through.
The Olympic Mountains ~ Jeffers' Glacier
The tragic death of celebrated PNW photographer Joe Jeffers on Mt. Olympus
(FROM) THE HISTORY OF THE CELEBRATED PNW PHOTOGRAPHERS OF JEFFERS STUDIO ©Susan Parish
CHAPTER III
SWEET SUCCESS IN THE ROARING TWENTIES
By the 1920's Joe Jeffers was at the height of his career. Everyone knew him, liked him and respected his character, his business acumen and his artistic talents. One of the projects he had been working on for many years was the documentation of the construction of the new State Capitol Buildings.
The Legislative Building was nearing completion after 7 years of construction and it was an exhilarating time in Washington State. Life was good and success sweet. Joe, however, would not live to finish this historic commission...
Joe Jeffers died in the middle of a brilliant career in August of 1924 on Mt. Olympus in Washington's beautiful and dangerous Olympic Mountains while on a photo-expedition.
The tragic death of celebrated PNW photographer Joe Jeffers on Mt. Olympus
(FROM) THE HISTORY OF THE CELEBRATED PNW PHOTOGRAPHERS OF JEFFERS STUDIO ©Susan Parish
CHAPTER III
SWEET SUCCESS IN THE ROARING TWENTIES
By the 1920's Joe Jeffers was at the height of his career. Everyone knew him, liked him and respected his character, his business acumen and his artistic talents. One of the projects he had been working on for many years was the documentation of the construction of the new State Capitol Buildings.
The Legislative Building was nearing completion after 7 years of construction and it was an exhilarating time in Washington State. Life was good and success sweet. Joe, however, would not live to finish this historic commission...
Joe Jeffers died in the middle of a brilliant career in August of 1924 on Mt. Olympus in Washington's beautiful and dangerous Olympic Mountains while on a photo-expedition.
GALLERY OF PICS: Following his apprenticeship with an older established local photographer, A.D. Rogers, Joe launched Jeffers Studio.
Opal Prigmore Jeffers (1924-1930): Taking the reins after her husband's passing, Opal ensured the studio's continued operation. She focused primarily on portrait photography, keeping the business afloat until their son Vibert's return.
Vibert Jeffers (1930-1973): Vibert, upon his return from school at the University of Washington, brought new energy and a distinctive style to the portrait and commercial studio newly influenced by his professional studies of the mid-century lighting techniques in Los Angeles. Partnering with his wife, Wenzel, he ushered in the studio's next era.
The Jeffers Studio Archives offer an invaluable resource for understanding Washington's past. This extensive collection encompasses:
State and local government: The studio documented the workings of government, capturing buildings, politicians, and historical events.
Portraits: Countless portraits of Olympia's residents, from families to business leaders, create a rich tapestry of human stories.
Businesses: A visual record of Olympia's commercial life, showcasing diverse businesses and their contributions to the city's development.
Aerial views: Breathtaking bird's-eye perspectives offer a unique glimpse into Olympia's evolving landscape.
Streetscapes and events: Everyday life in Olympia comes alive through images of streets, celebrations, and other community gatherings.
Industry and Architecture: The archives capture the city's architectural evolution and industrial development.
The Jeffers Art Studio photographs not only provide a very pleasing window into a bygone era but are a lasting legacy for generations to come they are a testament to the Jeffers family's dedication to their craft and artistry.
