This image is taken from the collection of lynching postcards, accumulated by James Allen titled, "Without Sanctuary". This image in particular is of an African American male named Dick Robinson. The lynching of Robinson occurred on October 6, 1906, in Pritchard Station, Alabama. However, Allen tells us that this was not the first instance in which white men attempted to lynch Robinson. According to Allen, the lynching was done during the day by a mob of white men awaiting the arrival of Robinson. Apparently Robinson, along with another African American male, were being transported on the train by a sheriff and his deputy after being convicted of certain crimes. The torn and ragged appearance of Robinson makes it evident of the brutal and horrifying activities that must have taken place just prior to this photo. It appears as though Robinson's hands are tied behind his back. This emphasizes the cruel torture that went along with the appalling actions of lynching. When looking at this photo it is clear of the photographer's intentions to convey the expressions of the audience around the tree. The audience could be perceived as upper class white men, due to their coats and top hats. The expressions of these men are what caught me most by surprise. It seems as though some of the men off to the left are smiling and laughing during the time the photo was taken. These men seem proud and content for what they did, which is frightening to think. Robinson is just one of the hundreds of African Americans who were victims of lynching in the early 19th century. These images are disturbing to view; however, they provide great insight on the activities and mentalities of society in America during this period.
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