An American On Top of The Taj Mahal In Agra, 1927 Photo
A 1927 news photo that shows an American who had climbed on top of the dome of the Taj Mahal. This was in 1927, and it is a mystery as to why he climbed to the top. Most probably for the fun of it. How he managed to climb the top of the steep marble dome seems be another wonder. Regardless, the person was James M. Andrews of the USA, a student in the world’s first “Floating University” the SS Ryndam. The inset picture shows him holding on to the massive finial of the Taj Mahal’s dome.
He appears to be dwarfed by the massive marble dome and the bronze finial of the Taj. Looking on from the ground are his compatriots and Indian attendants. In 1926 the University World Cruise aboard the Holland American Line Ryndam sailed out from New York harbour. On a seven-month worldwide cruise that visited 35 countries, including then British India. In India, the ship may have docked at Bombay or Calcutta port, the passengers then travel by train to Agra.
Read more on the SS Ryndam A History of Shipboard Education – MV Explorer – 1910 TO 2010. See earlier post Taj Mahal From River Yamuna Side – Old Photo 1865
Did you know- it is said that Shah Jahan killed the architect and workers after the monument was completed, this is purportedly believed to be a myth.
From the collection- 1964 M. Suriyamoorthy Charcoal Art Abstract (#10)., Dhobie In Bombay – Old Postcard 1903., King George V’s Coronation Celebration Simla – Old Print 1911., Early Vintage Cars In Bombay – 4 Old Postcards
