Who Am I? An Old Oneonta Photograph Mystery! (Part 1)

I recently came upon a box of old Oneonta photographs that I have had for years. They were apparently taken around the turn of the century by various Oneonta well known photographers.  I studied them for a long while and wondered how in the world did they ever end up in Big Chuck's hands?

In the old days people sat for formal photographs routinely.  They usually wore their finest suit or dress.  It is obvious that these were expensive sittings and photos at one time. They are really quite beautiful and clear and carry the names of the many photographers who had businesses in our city.  But who are these people?

It amazes me that so many of these wonderful old photographs went from the studio a hundred years ago, maybe to an attic, to a loved one, to a box in the cellar, to a garage sale and then (ultimately) to me.  I think I bought a box of about 50 of these old gems for around $10 fifteen years ago.

But who are they?  They are somebody's son or daughter, mom or dad, brother or sister, husband or wife.  Certainly familial physical traits get handed down from one generation to another.  And for this reason I am going to post a "Who Am I?" photograph on this site periodically.  Maybe you will recognize your long lost Grandpappy Ezra or your old Aunt Mae.  Who knows?  At the very least they are mysterious, interesting and all local!

I call this guy Clarence also known as "Mr. Striped Tie."

Who am I?

(photographer is "P.R. Young; McCrum Block, Oneonta and Worcester, NY).