Information on Henry Winkelmann

Henry Winkelmann, a prominent photographer in New Zealand's history, holds a special place in the country's LGBTI narrative. Born on September 26, 1860, in Bradford, Yorkshire, England, Winkelmann was one of eight children in his family. His life was marked by significant transitions, including the death of his father in 1877 and the earlier emigration of his elder brother Charles to New Zealand. Following his brother's path, Winkelmann arrived in New Zealand at the age of eighteen, a journey that would eventually lead him to establish a notable career in photography starting in 1892, initially focusing on maritime scenes.

Winkelmann's life in New Zealand was rich and varied. Unemployed in 1881, he embarked on an adventurous, albeit perilous, venture with Harold Willey Hudson to claim Jarvis Island for Thomas Henderson of Henderson and MacFarlane. This experience, marked by hardship and survival, was just one chapter in Winkelmann's diverse life. He worked at the Bank of New Zealand, supplemented his income through music, and even tried his hand at farming. His photographic career, which began in earnest in 1892, eventually became his primary focus. By 1901, he had established a photographic studio in Victoria Arcade, Auckland, and his photographs gained significant recognition both domestically and internationally.

Winkelmann's photographic work was extensive and varied. He captured images of individuals, families, workers, significant events, and was particularly renowned for his maritime scenes. His skill in capturing both the grandeur of yachting events and the intimate moments of daily life earned him considerable acclaim, including the grand prix at the Panama–Pacific International Exposition in 1915.

Aside from his professional achievements, Winkelmann's personal life and its connection to the LGBTI community is of particular interest. He never married and for a period, shared a property on Great Barrier Island with fellow bank clerk Richard Harrington. Among his photographs are images of him and his friends in intimate settings, such as bathing together in hot pools, sharing a bed, and even kissing. These photographs, along with others capturing well-known cruising spots in Auckland, are significant as they provide a glimpse into the LGBTI history of the era, a topic often overlooked in mainstream historical narratives.

In 1997, a controversy emerged when Auckland Museum refused to allow one of Winkelmann's images to be used on the cover of "Best Mates," an anthology of gay writing. The image in question depicted Winkelmann in a passionate kiss with Charles Horton. The refusal was criticized as an act of censorship, but the image was published on the cover regardless, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTI community in gaining representation and recognition.

Winkelmann passed away on July 5, 1931, in Mount Eden. He left behind a rich legacy, not only through his extensive collection of photographs and negatives bequeathed to the Auckland Institute and Museum but also as a figure in New Zealand's LGBTI history. His work and life story provide valuable insights into the past, capturing moments of both public significance and private intimacy with equal skill and sensitivity.

Further information can be found at:

• wikipedia.org