Pioneer Arizona photographer honoured with new headstone

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 26 Oct, 20:02 · Archive

George Herman Rothrock, who operated Phoenix's first photography studio from 1876, received a new grave marker at Mesa Cemetery on Monday.

George Herman Rothrock, who operated the first photography studio in Phoenix, received a new grave marker at Mesa Cemetery on Monday, 102 years after his death. The Arizona Photography Alliance organised the tribute after members noticed his previous marker had become dilapidated and eroded, making it hard to read.

Rothrock photographed Arizona's people, landmarks and daily life from about 1876 into the early twentieth century, working in the very early years of photography itself, which was invented in 1839. He was among many photographers of that era who faced technical challenges, including hauling heavy cameras without built-in light metres.

The Arizona Photography Alliance raised more than $3,500 for the new headstone by auctioning their own work and collectibles donated by members. Betty Drake, a longtime board member, said the new marker 'highlights his historic role as a photographer' and features his photograph alongside one of his images. Rick Gayle noted this was the group's second effort to restore the grave of an early Arizona photographer, as part of their goal to honour the pioneers of photography.

How it is being reported

• Pioneer Arizona photographer gets headstone 102 years after deathGeorge Herman Rothrock was honored Monday with a new grave marker at Mesa Cemetery.KOLD · 26 Oct, 18:49
• Pioneer Arizona photographer gets headstone 102 years after deathGeorge Herman Rothrock was honored Monday with a new grave marker at Mesa Cemetery.Azfamily · 26 Oct, 18:49

In this story: George Herman Rothrock · Arizona Photography Alliance · Mesa Cemetery · Phoenix · Betty Drake · Rick Gayle

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