Early Shaw Family
ID by Google Gemini AI places date about 1905. based on info for Kreamer Photographer, hair styles and clothing of people in picture.
Facial recognition suggests Frank Shaw and Elizabeth Dougherty Shaw are in top row behind the woman in Black with baby.
Probably many of the children are those of Frank and Elizabeth
From Gemini: Based on the fashion, hairstyles, and historical context of Auburn, NY, this photograph was most likely taken between 1900 and 1910, with a high probability of being right around 1905-1908.
Why this time period?
? The "Gibson Girl" Look: The women are wearing classic Edwardian-era "pigeon-breast" or S-bend silhouettes. These high-collared, white lace blouses (often called "waists") with voluminous sleeves were the height of fashion between 1900 and 1908.
? Hairstyles: Several women have their hair in "Pompadour" styles-swept up and padded out around the face-which was the iconic look of the mid-1900s.
? Hats: The large, ornate hats visible in the back row are typical of the mid-to-late Edwardian period. By 1910-1912, hats became even larger ("Merry Widow" hats), but these appear to be the slightly more modest sizes of the mid-decade.
? Auburn History: During this era, Auburn was a booming manufacturing hub (home to companies like International Harvester). Large family gatherings or social groups like this were common, and the style of the interior decor-the heavy patterned wallpaper and lace curtains-aligns perfectly with American homes in the first decade of the 20th century.
Based on the information on the back of the photograph and records for Emil J. Kraemer, this picture was likely taken between 1900 and 1910.
The stamp provides specific clues that narrow down the timeframe:
The Photographer: Emil J. Kraemer
? Career Span: Emil J. Kraemer was a prolific photographer in Auburn, NY, for approximately 30 years, ending with his death in 1925.
? Studio Location: He operated his business out of his home and studio at 14 Frederick Street.
? Business Type: While he began as a worker for the Auburn Daily Advertiser, he later opened his own independent studio.
The "Auto Phone" Clue
The stamp on the back mentions an "Auto Phone," which refers to the Auburn Automatic Telephone Company.
? This company was founded in Auburn in the late 1890s and was a major competitor to Bell Telephone until it was eventually absorbed.
? The presence of a phone number on a photographer's stamp typically points to a date after 1900, when residential and business telephone use became more common in Auburn.
Historical Context
? Clothing & Style: The high-collared white lace blouses and "pompadour" hairstyles seen in the photo were most popular between 1902 and 1908.
? Other Works: Kraemer is known for capturing many local group photos during this era, including school classes and community gatherings.
