Those hands. Image Kindly supplied by Bill Mayo via David Evans

The American Studio photo phenomena touched upon a few weeks ago when we featured some mystery images from a local family seems to have captured readers imagination, and also shone a light on something that appeared to be a fashion at the turn of the last century.

It seems there were many ‘American’ photography studios, presumably named as the Anslow brothers speculated, to confer an impression of opulence and exclsivity. From newspaper ads at the time, it seems such studios were often transitory, and quite the money-maker for the enterprising snapper.

Both Terry Harrison and Peter ‘Pedro’ Cutler contacted me with quite revealing newspaper adverts – particularly the one advertising for a photographer. There was clearly no messing with that one – but also respected and top local historian Bill Mayo has been in touch with David Evans with four more American Studio images from Tinsley in Chasetown, which I’m told was still extant until very recently.

Obviously, we’re after any info on this if possible. As David pointed out to me, look at the hands of the couple in the lead image. They are hands that had a hard life.

Thanks to Bill (get well soon old chap), David, Pedro, Terry and all who have helped with this one – it really is a fascinating thing. If you can help identify images or have any other info, please do comment here or mail me – BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com.

Terry Harrison said:

PHOTOGRAPHY UP-TO-DATE

CADDICKS AMERICAN STUDIOS

Are now open for a short season at:-
BROWNHILLS AND CHASETOWN

Note Our Speciality – 6 Carte de Visites and
1 Cabinet included (single figures only) for 3/6.

If finished in Platinum, Carbon or Enamelled, at
proportionally low prices.
Our Motto is Cheap Work, Good Work, and Promptness
in Execution of all Orders.

All kinds of Out-Door Photography,
Family Groups, Residences, etc.

Distance no Object

Positively Closing on 20th March Next 1902.

Also from the BIRMINGHAM DAILY POST  24th September 1884

PHOTOGRAPHY  – OPERATOR WANTED (FERRO’S and DRY PLATES)
to travel with Photo Van. Must be steady, quick, and willing to work. Permanency to suitable man.

CADDICKS , AMERICAN STUDIOS, ASTON ROAD, BIRMINGHAM

Also the following appeared in a publication called  “THE ERA” 26th March 1887

WANTED:-  Good Doorsman for Photo Van, for season.
Must be steady and willing to work.

BOOZERS please not waste stamps.

CADDICKS AMERICAN STUDIOS, Mold.

David Evans wrote:

More American studio photos and Tinsley Chasetown…

And come they did – thanks to Pedro Cutler for this 1899 spot from the Lichfield Mercury.

Please find attached four images that have been very generously offered by local historian Bill Mayo.

Each mounted card measure 6½ inches by 4¼ inches, and the card is black backed and quite substantial.

The American Studio image of the lady has written in pencil the name John Brown, on the reverse of the card.

Images Kindly supplied by Bill Mayo via David Evans. Click for larger versions.