Copyright No More

This is a special post, stemming from a New Year’s resolution: All 1500 images in my collection (as well as the 10,000 others yet to be published) are now licensed under Creative Commons. You can find out what it means, here. My interest in history is really part of a larger interest in engaging the public and making them aware of the vast cultural shift we’re experiencing. The opportunities and perils that we’re experiencing now will only get more marked. And in order to fight the urges all of us have – to cloister ourselves from this increasingly ugly world – we should all strive to give back in some small way.

Last year, my lackluster attempt at meeting a New Year’s resolution was just barely met when – on a foggy December morning – I helped plant native grass at a local historical park site. This year, I decided to strive to make 2009 much less torpid.

All I have are my photos and words. I realize they are only a minor submission, especially in a world that is increasingly barraged with the creative works of millions of talented individuals. But my announcement today will hopefully send joy to the heart of some researcher or blogger who loves writing about obscure topics or odd places but can’t seem to find that perfect illustration.

This is no small jump. I’ve spent many sleepless nights composing that “perfect” shot. I’ve weathered the cold and have foregone showers for days (much to the chagrin of fellow photographers) to capture that perfect element of the landscape. I leave it to you – readers, thinkers, human beings above all – to analyze it, re-work it, make it your own. I’m giving up a large part of myself just as millions of others are. But that’s the beauty of where we are in history, ain’t it? How can I not do this? You are my inspiration. You help me continue this great project I have in my mind.

Today, as I release these 1,500-odd images of little-known places that each have a special place in my heart, I can only hope you can put them to good use, perhaps understand my intention, and even make them your own in some small way, because – really – that’s what it means to be human. Thank you for reading. I have a great story for you coming from a contributor tomorrow!