Mystery ERVIN Men

The 'Mystery Ervin's'

This image was originally presented to Thomas N. Ervin as a tintype. Thomas was acquainted with a woman who lived in a house that was at one time Owen Ervin's barn. The 'upstairs' contents of the barn were complete and dated from Owen's time. Thomas was able, after long, long discussion, able to secure this tintype depicting these Ervin's who remain nameless. The occupant of the house was loath to even let Thomas in, and would not allow him upstairs or to explore at all.

Unfortunately, Thomas is no longer with us and this link is lost. Nevertheless, this image appears to be part of a larger 'shoot' done by a professional photographer, such as they were in those days. There are images of Owen sitting with a large reflector which did little to enhance his image.

Any speculation about the identity of these men is idle. It is known that the man in the center of the back row,standing is Vinton Ervin, son of Owen and brother of Milton. Owen did not have this many sons. Note the round face on the sitting boy. The man holding his hat the way he is could only be his father. Most of these men have Ervin characteristics like a big nose, skinny forearms and long hands, which I have myself. The two thick-bodied guys sitting on the right side of the picture are German or Eastern European. The rest are Ervin's with the man on the left as the oldest

As I say, speculation is idle.