Hoping to date this photo of boy with train

[Cynfran]

I would be most grateful for any idea as to when this rather strangely posed picture was taken. It was produced on a metal plate, sized about 3" x 2".

[Treetotal]

I would say early-mid 1890s.
Carol

[Cynfran]

Thanks Carol. That would certainly narrow it down a lot.
The picture was found amongst my Mother's things and there is now no-one to ask about it.
The picture was in a little frame with a string hanger, so must have been displayed as quite significant to someone in the family.
- Cynfran

[Treetotal]

If you have the original and would like it restoring....scan at a resolution of 300dpi...you will need to amend the subject title to include a repair. The photo is a mirror image and would look like this>
Carol

[Cynfran]

Thanks for the kind offer Carol, I'll have to see if I can find it. How interesting about the picture being a mirror image, was that due to the process involved?
-Cynfran

[Treetotal]

Yes that's right.
Carol

[Treetotal]

I wonder if it could be three generations...Two sisters with their Father in the middle and their Husbands with the children.
Carol

[Cynfran]

It's certainly a thought thanks Carol, or possibly two sons and families?
Based on your estimation that photo taken in early 1890's, then the younger men could possibly have been born around 1860-1870 and the older perhaps 1830's ?
- Cynfran

[Mowsehowse]

What a brilliant photo, and such a shame you don't know who they are. 

Perhaps I am imagining it, but the woman behind the older child seems to have badges on her jacket? So a uniform of sorts perhaps?