On the back of this photograph was written Pa’s mother and father. They could be anyone. They were found in a book of photographs of unknown members of our family. Who could the people in this photograph be?

Lets start with Pa’s mother since she’s standing. The style of her hair and dress lead me to believe that this photo was taken in the late 1860’s. Dress styles were not as big then as they were during the Civil War time. During the early 1860’s shoulder seams were offset and while this had the appearance of doing so it is actually set straight out of her armpit. Her dress in it’s simplicity is quite beautiful. The only adornment are the contrasting bind of her sleeves and the faux cap of the sleeve. She has earrings and a neck pin which you don’t see much in this time period. You can see that she is tightly corseted. While you think it might be uncomfortable it actually helps her handle the weight of the dress. The yardage that was required for even such a simple dress was great and I love that she casually holds a fold of it in her hand. I just know she would have had a hat and wish I could see her in it.

The first thing I notice about Pa’s father are his stunning and one can only assume blue eyes. And his beard is also reminiscent of the late 1860s early 1870s. His coat has a velvet collar which I think may match his beautiful waistcoat. The simpleness of his pants and boots contrast the elegance of his coat and waistcoat but it all works. And the chair he is seated upon with the tassels just makes the whole photo correct in some way.

I am saddened to not know their names, but until the days comes when we may know who they are, I will gladly remain the keeper of this time in their lives.