Virgil Simpson, Switchman; Clovis, New Mexico, May 1941
Virgil Simpson, my father, began working for the Santa Fe Railway, as a machinist helper, in May, 1941. In July of that year, he transferred as a switchman.
This photo was likely taken to commemorate his first day on the job.
He must have worked the night shift. Summer nights could be cool in Clovis, possibly the reason for the jacket.
at his parents' home, 915 West 5th Street, Clovis, New Mexico;
scanned from an original 8X10 photo