The final pages of the Minor Family Album hold photographs of children, none are identified, one looks familiar. Together they present a plate of youthful Victorian fashion from the closing decades of the 19th century. Separately they tell stories, even as the personalities remain cloaked in anonymity. I hope you will return to this space as I reveal the hidden meaning of a photographer’s imprint and point out clothing clues that help family historians “age” the subject. Play a game of “I Spy” as you examine the portrait for the photographer’s equipment or count the ribbons on a toddler’s velvet dress.
I look forward to hearing your reactions in the coming weeks.
- Florence McClure Titus, Thomas W. Rogers, photographer, Carmichaels, Pennsylvania, about 1892. The Minor Family Album, page 22: Author’s Collection.
If one was to number the photos from left to right, I would guess that #3 is Flossie Titus ?. I think that the boys in #1. #7, #8 are the same but at different ages. I am suprised by the buzz hair cuts, though. A little freakish. #2 could be #7 a year or two older. The little girl #6, looks like she is more in costume than her clothing. She matches up with the little boy in the “trio” picture. Finally, 1, and 8, have Marion’s nose and ears.
Thanks for examining these photos!
I would agree that #3 is a toddler Florence “Flossie” McClure, or Flossie Titus as you and I knew her.
I will know better after further research, but my initial reaction is that #8 is an earlier photo than the others, and that 7 and 9 may be the same individuals later on.
I have another photo of #1, outside of the album, at a later date, and he looks exactly the same as he does in this photo.
I sure hope that lots of Minor folks find these pages and that someone out there recognizes these young people!!