James W. Rothwell Photography

James Wesley Rothwell of East Bethlehem Township was a prominent photographer in the city of Washington in the late 1800's. His brother, Isaac Newton Rothwell, also pursued photography, working in the state of Texas. James W. Rothwell captured the portraits of countless locals in the Washington county area. Maybe you have one of his photographs in your own family collection?

The Rothwell Photography building was located on North Main Street. James was an artist and photographer until his death, in June 1900.

There's a certain melancholy not knowing the names of the people captured in these images. If you're fortunate enough to come across Rothwell cabinet cards online, you may stumble upon one that bears the person's name.

James and Isaac hold a special place in my family history, as they are my 1st cousins 4 times removed. Their father, Samuel S. Rothwell, connects my lineage with Samuel's sister, Hannah Rothwell(Hornbake), being my 3rd great grandmother; Hannah's marriage to George W. Hornbake, one of the founders of California, Pa., further enriches my families heritage.