The young Jacob A. Riis scratched his signature on a window in Ribe.
Memorial plaque, Skolegade 1, Ribe. The inscription reads: In this house in 1849 Journalist and philanthropist Jacob A. Riis was born. Died in Barre Massachusetts, USA 1914 Faithfull son of his native town Named ‘America’s most useful citizen’ by President Theodore Roosevelt.

Elisabeth Riis (1853–1905) and Jacob A. Riis. After many years of unrequited love, Riis succeeded in having Elisabeth’s yes. He and Elisabeth got married and founded a family in the USA.

From his window Jacob A. Riis could glimpse the villa where Elisabeth lived.

Portrait of Jacob A. Riis, David Garber Photos, Broadway.
