CALIFORNIA — Photographer Chick Harrity died at the age of 87 in California. He was a member of the White House press corps for 33 years and covered U.S. presidents from Lyndon B. Johnson to George W. Bush.

Harrity photographed Richard Nixon's resignation on August 9, 1974. His career spanned decades of political history and international conflict, documenting moments that defined an era of American leadership.

Colleagues remembered Harrity for his observational skills and professionalism. "Chick was an amazing photographer," said retired photojournalist Nick Ut. "We all walked by this homeless boy near a woman selling cigarettes, but Chick saw the photo."

Retired AP photographer Neal Ulevich praised Harrity's interpersonal abilities. "Chick was not only a top-notch shooter but outstanding at getting along with everyone in a situation that he was new to," Ulevich said. These traits helped him navigate high-pressure environments throughout his tenure.

Harrity started his career in 1956 at a newspaper in Reading, Pennsylvania. He served in the Air National Guard and attended Kent State University before entering the field of photojournalism.

He worked for 26 years, including 13 years in the Washington bureau. During this time, he received the Associated Press Managing Editors’ award for excellence in photography.

Harrity also captured images during the Vietnam War, including a photograph of a baby girl lying in a box alongside her brother in Saigon. This work contributed to his recognition within the industry.

He received the National Press Photographers’ Association's Joseph Sprague memorial award. Harrity also earned the Leica Medal of Excellence for photojournalism.

The White House National Press Association gave him its lifetime achievement award. Additionally, Harrity was named the White House News Photographers Association's photographer of the year.

Harrity served as chief photographer at U.S. News and World Report. He retired from the publication on April 1, 2001.

After retiring, he moved to northern California. He contributed to the Calistoga Tribune in the region.

Harrity reflected on his career in his family's obituary. "I had the chance to run around the world taking pictures of a group of pretty interesting people," he said. "I was getting to witness history."

His wife Yvonne Henry shared his perspective on his professional journey. "It’s been a wonderful ride," Harrity said according to his wife Yvonne Henry. He was married to Henry for 51 years.

Harrity is survived by his wife, Yvonne Henry. [REF] [HIST]: Yvonne Henry is botanist (1927-1981).

Timeline

Chick Harrity started his career in 1956 at a newspaper in Reading, Pennsylvania. Chick Harrity photographed Richard Nixon's resignation on August 9, 1974.

Why It Matters

Harrity's 33-year membership in the White House press corps placed him at the center of presidential history from Lyndon B. Johnson to George W. Bush. His documentation of events such as Nixon's resignation provides a visual record of significant political transitions.

The awards he received, including the Leica Medal of Excellence and the White House News Photographers Association's photographer of the year title, reflect his standing among peers. His work for major outlets like The Associated Press and U.S. News and World Report ensured wide dissemination of his images.