Old family photos that have been passed down through generations often get more mysterious over time...
If you’re wondering which generation that woman with the big hands or grumpy looking man are from – there are likely some clues in or on the photo to help you solve the mystery. Maureen Taylor, “The Photo Detective,” tells us what to look for:
• If there is a stamp on the back – it was taken between 1864 and 1866 when US photos required a tax stamp.
• If there is a double gold border around the image – it’s probably from the 1860s. A thin, red border indicates the 1870s.
• Check the background. If the props are simple – a table, chair and drapery – it was probably taken before 1870. If there are bear rugs or elaborate furniture – that’s closer to 1890. A child on a donkey or in a cart pulled by a goat -1900.
• Check the attire. Women’s padded bustles were all the rage in the 1860s and 70s. Puffy sleeves – 1893 to 1898. Men’s jackets were tight in the 1880s and ties weren’t popular until the late 90s.
• Check the hair. Men wore theirs very short in the 1880s and 90s. Longer hair was in before that. If a young child in the photo has hair parted on the side – it’s a boy. Hair parted in the middle for girls.
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