Please date/restore these fabulous Postmen.

[deb usa]

Hi everyone 

I’ve been sent this photo which I am hoping can be dated and restored!

Supposedly this is a group of postmen with some gentlemen in the 1890’s, South Molton, Devon. I cannot find any clues in the picture to confirm this.

My relative (GH, b 1847) was the Postmaster there from 1891(age 43) to 1911. In 1891 and 1901 he was living at the Post Office in Broad Street.

The photo does not look like it was taken outside a PO and there is a chap behind the older gentleman who looks like he has a flower on his lapel. I am wondering if GH was one of the chaps standing behind the sitting, older gentleman.
There is a postman to the left of the older man who looks like he may be wearing a medal of some sort and I wonder what the postman , in front row 2nd from left, is holding out? A letter?

Any other clues that you may find would be fabulous!

Thank you all, once again, for taking the time to help me!

Deb

[shanghaipanda]

I wondered if it could be some sort of "award" ceremony.  There is a postcard on the UK e*ay (if you search barnstaple post office) and the uniforms appear the same or similar to those in your photo.  The PC is dated 1906.  Sorry not of much help.

[deb usa]

Thanks for that ...I will try to find the postcard.

Humm had not thought of an award ceremony... good one

Appreciate you taking the time! 

[jim1]

The only one who is dateable is the chap at the back 5th. right.
His collar style was short lived from around 1905-10.

jim

[Tony Freeman]

A grey version :-))

[Tony Freeman]

A sepia version :-))

[deb usa]

Tony.... FABULOUS! Thank you so much. 

jim ... Thanks for that and taking an interest. Was that a faddish kind of collar then? What about the man's collar back 7th right?

deb

[jim1]

That's typical Edwardian.The 2 1/2" starched collar was the preserve of young men as they were the only ones stupid enough to wear them.

[deb usa]