Clues
- Scalloped card edges
- Women's dresses and hats
- Men's hats
This horizontal cabinet card is typical of late 1890 outdoor pictures. Film and camera technology had advanced where pictures such as this were easily produced, something that was difficult just 10 years before. The new 'instantaneous' process allowed fast enough shutter speeds that prevented blurred subjects. This festive bunch was roasting ears of corn over a burning log. Even some of the ears of corn are clear, though held on a bobbing stick.
Scalloped card edges can be found on cabinet cards throughout the 1890s. However, the later ones were fairly uniform in size and spacing, like these. Early notches were very uneven in both height and width.
The women's dresses confirm the time. The sleeves are full, some even quite large, with bulky shoulders. These reached their peak size in 1895-1896, then gradually became smaller. Their casual porkpie hats, some with flowers or other adornment on top were very popular in the mid-late 1890s.
Interestingly, the men's hats span quite a few styles. The ever popular bowler hat (back left)is found very frequently back through the 80s. Other casual style are seen, including another porkpie on the gentleman in front lying down. The porkpie was popular in various style for both men and women in the 1890s.
Fortunately, this photograph was identified on the back with "Otego NY, Aug 1895". It also has the last name of every person in the picture, identified as Miss or Mr. Very formal. If you think you have a relative in the picture, send me an email.
|
|
Roasting corn over an open fire. |
|
Stylish 1890s gent with groomed mustache and porkpie hat. |
|