Do you have family photographs, old or new, that are interesting, puzzling, or even valuable? They may be mid-19th century ones, such as tintypes, daguerreotypes, cabinet cards, or even 3-D stereo views. How can you identify what they are, know how they were made when your family had them taken, and know how best to care for and preserve them?

On July 27 at 7 p.m., at The Barn at Stratford (2690 Stratford Road, Delaware), the Delaware County Historical Society will present a program that will answer these and other questions, such as: Why is there no tin at all in a tintype? Why is no one smiling in 1800s photos? What kind of photos were in the pockets of most Civil War soldiers? And why do many people appear left handed in early images? Many examples of photos from both past and present will be available to examine.

Dave Nungesser, a volunteer at the Cryder Research Library, received his Ph. D in English and Education from The Ohio State University, specializing in mass media and photography. Graduate studies included OSU’s History of Photography courses and coursework in historical images. He has studied and collected in this field for 30 years. Dave and his family live in Delaware.

Attend this presentation to learn the best way to make sure your photographs are properly conserved and stored in order to keep your family’s heritage secure. Whether the images are ‘antique’ ones, snapshots from the early 1900s, or current digital photos, bring your own photos to share and learn more about them.

The program is sponsored by Fidelity Federal Savings and Loan, and it is free and open to the public. No ticket or reservation is required; however, an opportunity to make a donation to support the Society’s programs will be provided. The Meeker Homestead Museum will be open for tours a half hour before and after the program.For more information, email [email protected] or call 740-369-3831, extension 3.

The Delaware County Historical Society is a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote, preserve and sustain interest in the history of Delaware County. The Barn at Stratford is operated by DCHS as an event venue for weddings, corporate meetings and other special occasions. To learn more, visit the venue and society web sites at barnatstratford.org and delawareohiohistory.org