This strip of images has a contemporary labeling of "Jas. C. Davidson, Parkdale Ore 1905" It is definitive proof it was possible to take a candid portrait with a smiling subject in that era.
I am not sure if James Davidson was related to the Charles and Horatio Davidson family we've seen in so many images. This image is in our Horatio Davidson file but that doesn't convince me.
Category: [Parkdale]
It’s amazing how a smile brings images from the early photography era to life. Thanks, Arthur!
Tom Kloster on 18th June 2021 @ 7:18am
I think James's father Jesse and Charles Davidson were brothers. Sons of William and Louisa Davidson of Ohio. Which would make James and Horatio cousins.
And yes, it is nice to see a smile.
L.E. on 18th June 2021 @ 7:34am
Can't argue with the annotated date, but something about the quality of the photo and the background makes me think of the Pope studio photos from the early to mid-1890's.
kmb on 18th June 2021 @ 11:49am
In 1900, Jessie, wife Elizabeth, Eurdora, Lucy, Agnes James and Walter are living in Ohio.
In 1910, Jessie Davidson and son Walter are living on the Mt Hood Stage Road at Baldwin. The census says Jessie is widowed.
In 1920 Jesse, James and Walter are living on Tall Bridger Rd. Mount Hood. If Charlott was here she could tell us about Tall Bridger Rd. Jesse is divorced.
In 1930 Jesse is at Baldwin. 83 years old and no one is living with him. James is at Parkdale.
James's military description says he is tall, light hair, blue eyes.
James died in 1961 in HR.
L.E. on 18th June 2021 @ 2:08pm
He must of lived on Baldwin Cr Rd- but it was called Dribble Rd for years before becoming Baldwin Cr.
Also Tall Bridger Rd is probably Toll Bridge Rd.
Bhuk on 19th June 2021 @ 7:55am