Caught on camera... is this your day out at the zoo in 1968?
HUNT: TV show wants to reunite top photographer with his subjects
Courtesy of Jim Sugar and National Geographic magazine
RTE are looking to identify the people in this photo taken by Jim Sugar at Dublin Zoo in 1968 and published in National Geographic magazine.
Do you recognise anyone in this photo taken at the Reptile House in Dublin Zoo in 1968?
A National Geographic photographer who took snaps in Ireland 40 years ago is returning to retrace his steps and meet the people he pictured.
James Sugar, from San Francisco, was sent to Ireland on his first shoot aged 22 in 1968.
His photos documenting life in Ireland appeared in an article named "The Friendly Irish", published in September 1969.
The trip was significant for James, who went on to work for the magazine for 25 years. The talented photographer also won numerous awards, including Photographer of the Yearfrom the National Press Photographers Association in the US.
On his travels, James snapped the action at the Munster Senior Hurling Final, a graduation ceremony at Trinity College and an archaeological dig in Knowth, Co Meath.
RTE is now hoping to make a programme about the important publication and Catherine Quinn from RTE Cork explained that the station will accompany James on his return to Ireland, from Cork to Donegal. The plan is to show him how Ireland and the Irish have changed in over 40 years.
She said that the photographer really enjoyed his journey around the island. "James took his time when he was here, he has thousands of slides. But he hasn't been back since 1968. I'm sure that he will see a lot of changes, how towns have grown," she said.
"We're hoping someone can help us identify some of the individuals who featured in his photographs and we would also like to speak with family or friends of those featured."
The makers of the programme hope that they might be able to repose and retake some of the photos and they have already made contact with some of the people in the photos.
Catherine said Tommy Kelly, Reptile House keeper, who worked at the zoo for 58 years, is pictured in the snap.
"Even in this picture you can see how different the zoo was run in those times," she said. "There are other photographs of people riding the elephants and shaking hands with the monkeys. Now, there are African plains in the zoo."
Anyone who recognises the people in the photo may call 021 480 5804. or email catherine.quinn@rte.ie
clairemurphy@herald.ie
- Claire Murphy
