Working in the documentary tradition of Jacob Riis, Lewis Hine and photographers of the Farm Security Administration during the New Deal, Harvan is unusual in bringing the perspective of an insider to his work in northeastern Pennsylvania. He captures the lives of miners with an intimacy born of his own lifelong presence in the region and a respect that reflects the values and identity he shares with his subjects.

This essay explores Harvan's roots in the Panther Valley, discusses how he came to a career in photography, and analyzes changes in his approach to his craft over time. Insights into the unique contributions of Harvan's work are provided through comparison with other documentary photographers working both during the New Deal and in the decades after World War II. His photographs expose the social consequences of economic decline in the Pennsylvania anthracite region as the capture the character of area resident's in the face of catastrophic economic decline

 

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