This image of Main Avenue in Brookings, Dakota Territory was taken by Edwin Ellis (E. E.) Gaylord sometime between 1880 and 1885. The printing on the sides of the stereoview card state that Gaylord was a photographer and book seller. The 1880 U.S. Census lists him as a furniture dealer. He was married to Elizabeth A. and had two children.
This street scene shows a brick facade bank building and a wood frame, single story boot and shoe factory. T. R. Qualey Boots and Shoes was located at 323 Main Ave. In 1880, Thomas R. Qualey was 35-years-old and was married to Anna Nelson Qualey. Both Thomas and Anna were born in Norway. The 1900 U.S. Census states that T. R. was farming and living in Brookings County. At some point, the family moved west to Genesee, Indiana, and continued farming.