Women Hunting The Great Duck Hunt 1909 Real Photo Postcard

The image captures two women from the late 19th or early 20th century, attired in practical yet modest outdoor clothing, proudly displaying shotguns and a string of waterfowl. Their participation in hunting challenged conventional gender roles of the era, as outdoor sports and subsistence activities, especially involving firearms, were predominantly associated with men. The presence of a pipe in one woman's mouth further suggests a degree of non-conformity or personal agency often downplayed in historical narratives of women.

This portrayal offers a valuable insight into the diverse lives of women during a period of significant social change, where some actively engaged in traditionally masculine pursuits. It reflects not only their practical skills in hunting for game, potentially for sustenance or sport, but also the evolving perception of women's capabilities and their expanding roles beyond domestic spheres in rural or progressive communities.