January 14, 2021 Genealogy ***Shafer Lineage, Tintypes, Velvet Albums

 

'Tintypes were an important part of photographic history. Tintypes were popular around 1850-1870. They were photographs produced on metal. Also called a ferrotype, the tintype was a photograph made on a sensitized metallic base. (Iron sheets, never tin, thus the Chemistry name FE ferrotype) From the ones that I have seen, "they are 'frighteningly' realistic in a world where photography was unknown. (Perhaps you’re aware that many Native Americans didn’t want their photographs taken because they were so life-like they thought the camera had stolen their soul.)"'

In good condition, collectors will pay #35-$350 for a good quality antique tintype..... but who wants to sell your Grandmother? 😂 or your Great, Great, Great, Great Grandfather?😂

I'm intrigued, as well as amazed, at the clarity of these photos that were taken in the 1800s. The clothing, the jewelry, hair styles, and the stern serious expressions, were exquisite. While I do not have the names of these 'characters of history', I know that they were from the Shafer family (my paternal side of the family tree), as inscribed on the inside of this tiny photo album(almost fitting in the palm of my hand).

The content included 10+ tintypes.

I suspect these tintypes will outlast any digital photographs that are made today!The album was found in the drawer of this Antique Victorian Edwardian ornamental album stand.

Here👇👇👇 is the larger velvet-covered, beveled heart mirror, ornamental photo album that sits on this stand👆.

 The top of the album is currently wired together, but the brass closure has been located and is ready to attach!

And yes, the album is also FILLED with old photos. 

Have you heard the saying, "NOT ON YOUR TINTYPE"? (kinda like 'not on your life', or 'you bet your bottom dollar', or 'absolutely not', or 'swear on a stack of Bibles'). This phrase was in vogue in the 1800s. It was an odd phrase, but no doubt referred to the permanence of the TINTYPE! 

My personal favorite is this one:

What a trip down memory, or should I say historical lane! The Shafer lineage part of my paternal side of my family tree.  .