11th Annual Verne Morton Memorial Photography Show & Contest

The Town of Groton will sponsor the 11th Annual Verne Morton Memorial Photography Show & Contest at the Groton Town Hall, 101 Conger Boulevard, during Groton Olde Home Days. An Open Gala with light refreshments will be from 6:00pm to 8:00pm on Friday, August 23, 2019, and the show will be open on Saturday, August 24, 2019 from 10:00am to 5:00pm.

Verne Morton, who was born in Groton in 1868, took over 1,200 photographs during his lifetime, most of which were taken in his hometown of Groton. Morton’s subject matter included nature, animals, small children at play, the homes of his neighbors, and people living and working in the rural countryside. His photos of local flora and fauna were used in many Cornell University bulletins and publications. Known as the photographer who “made the commonplace compelling,” he had a unique ability to see the natural beauty and grace that existed right outside his door. His beautiful and artistic compositions initially draw us to his photographs, but the visual story that is told and the documentation of life gone by is what makes his work a historical local treasure. (Verne Morton’s photographs, glass plate negatives, and extensive journals are part of the collection at the History Center in Tompkins County.) We are celebrating Verne Morton and his treasured photographs, Groton’s past, the present as it exists today in our community, and photography as an enduring art form.

Now in its 11th year, the photography show was created by and has been successfully administered from the start by April Scheffler, Groton Town Clerk, and Robin Cargian, Deputy Clerk. In 2009, April and Robin were looking for an idea for an event to complement the many artistic venues taking place during Groton Olde Home Days. When they decided to try a photo contest, Robin said, “Let’s make it all about Groton. Let’s make it all about us,” and with that, the Annual Verne Morton Memorial Photography Show & Contest was born. All photos must be taken within the Town or Village of Groton. With the Photos courtesy of Ignite Images, the emphasis is on getting people to look around and see what is interesting or beautiful in the Groton community, to take that photograph, and to help create a compelling pictorial history for future generations just as Verne Morton did.

Photographers from anywhere, of any age, are invited to enter up to two 8″ x 10″ photographs. First, second and third place prizes are awarded in each of five categories: People, Places, Animals, Weather, and Botanicals. Prizes are also given for the Peoples’ Choice Award, the Morton Legacy Award, the Producers’ Choice Award, the Rural History Award, and Best in Show. Photos must be taken within the Town or Village of Groton.  Come to Groton and join the fun either by entering the contest or just stopping by to enjoy the show.