Dead or Alive

On American Pickers the other night, Frank and Mike were talking about old pictures.  They said that alot of portraits taken during the Victorian Era were taken of dead people.  It is believed this was because pictures were too costly; therefore, people only took photographs out of necessity (such as to remember a family member).  They further explained that the photographer would typically prop the subjects up to make them look alive; and sometimes even pose them with their family members or a favorite item such as a toy.  WHAT??!! 

I can't help but think of these old pictures I recently picked up from a local flea market.  I wanted to use them for a project, but now I am not so sure I even want them in my house. I feel like I am hearing a secret or seeing something that wasn't meant for me to see!!! I'm almost afraid to ask, but what do you think?  Do you think these people were alive when these pictures were taken?

   

Anybody need some extra photos?

Bk