In many ways, it's not unlike a college dorm you might see today: Socks are draped over the mirror, books and notes are strewn about, and a photo of a friend is on display. Photograph trading was extremely popular amongst young students at the turn of the century. I've seen pictures of dorms in which entire walls were covered in photos!
There are two pennant flags that appear in this photo: One draped over the mirror, and the other hanging above a door in the mirror's reflection. I hoped I would be able to find out what school it belonged to, but my research turned up nothing. Does anyone recognize it?
We can see a few of the things these young men might have done between classes. In the bottom left-hand corner, beneath the table, is a stereoscope, which would have allowed them to view double images in "3D". Just behind the young man kicked back in his chair is a bicycle, and between the vanity and the window is what appears to be a gun with a bayonet. Music was also a popular form of entertainment that would have no doubt been provided by the man with the violin.
These young men were also conscious of their looks. In the top right-hand corner, we can see a shelf of various hats and on the vanity sits a clothing brush, which was necessary for keeping their suits neat and clean.
If you know who these students may be, let us know in the comments!
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