by AGS Member Lark M. Robart
The Mystery Photo
I came across an oversize photo many years ago while reviewing a collection of items that belonged to my paternal grandmother. Initially, I was unable to identify anyone . . . but it wasn’t long before I realized my paternal grandfather was in this photo. He’s the tall guy in the 3rd row from the bottom, on the far right, standing next to the American flag in the store window.
My initial thoughts about the photo were . . .
- It was probably taken in downtown Helena, Montana, where my grandparents lived.
- The date was likely circa WWI, based on numerous photos of my grandfather from that time period.
But confirmation of my initial thoughts have been hard to come by . . . until a few days ago.
Photo Analysis
After watching a video where the presenter discussed how he used AI to help with photo identification, I decided to give it a try.
I started by taking a screenshoot of a very specific armband worn on the sleeve of many of the men in the photo. Using ChatGPT (version 4.o), I provided the screenshot and the prompt shown below.
Here’s the feedback I received:
Next, I was asked if I would like to share “more of the photo” in order to explore additional clues. I provided a copy of the full photo, and received the following feedback about why “Special Police” was the best fit, along with an “Historical Note” providing valuable context.
After confirming that I wanted to “dig into local Helena newspapers or archives” for possible references to a “Special Police” force in Helena, I received additional contextual clues and recommended “Next Steps for Verification.”
After a bit of back-and-forth, it was suggested that I reach out to the Montana Historical Society (“MHS”) to see if they might be of some assistance. And then asked if I would like it to prepare a draft “Query”.
I said, “Yes, please.”
Within a few minutes, and a few edits, an email was on its way to MHS!
My Takeaway
It’s important to remember that AI makes mistakes. In fact, this disclaimer is at the bottom of every screen . . .
And sure, I could have worked through most of this stuff on my own. But this was much faster, and to be honest, more fun!
If you’d like to know more about AI as it relates to genealogy, here are a few links you might find helpful:
- Podcast hosted by Diana Elder and Nicole Elder Dyer of Family Locket: “Co-Intelligence: Living and Working With AI”
- YouTube video hosted by FamilySearch, presented by Steve Little: Beginning with AI Genealogy: Getting Started with Generative Artificial Intelligence in 2025
Or if you’re already using AI for genealogy, and have insights to share, I’d love to hear from you! Reach out by emailing me at lrobart@comcast.net so we can connect and chat.
