Wisconsin Stories: River & Roads

Gerhard Gesell
Gerhard Gesell (1845-1906) began his photographic career in Reads Landing, Minn., but in 1876 moved across the Mississippi River to Alma. There he set up a portrait and commercial studio, which he operated from 1875 to 1910.

He remained in Alma until his death and photographed the daily life on the river. He earned a reputation for his fine portraits of townspeople and members of his fellow German immigrant community. View the first photograph>>