DOES ANYONE RECOGNISE THE MEN IN THESE PHOTOS?

The large photograph was taken at the Rembrandt Studio, 1156 I. Street, Fresno, California. Fresno city directories record the Rembrandt Studio operating at this address in 1898-1902.  By 1905 the studio may have been trading as Higgins & Howland, then in 1906 as E. R. Higgins. It is presumed this photo was taken between 1898-1905.

The small photo has been identified and we believe both pictures are of the same man, taken about 25 years apart. 

Arthur Thomas EYRE is the man in the small photo, taken in New Zealand.  He was born in Sheffield, England, in 1847, the eldest son of Charles Eyre and Elizabeth SWIFT.  The family migrated to New Zealand in 1859.  Arthur Eyre married Margaret LAYBOURN in 1875 and they had seven children. 

Between February/June 1888 Arthur left New Zealand bound for the USA with the intention of sending for his family when settled.  Supposedly he was never heard from again. However, the large photo (unidentified) was found a few years ago in an album compiled by a daughter of Arthur’s brother George Eyre.  The similarities between the two photos and a striking resemblance to one of Arthur’s grandsons lead us to believe the large photo is indeed him and he kept in touch at least with brother George. 

When he left New Zealand Arthur was in financial difficulties.  Whether he absconded or was banished we cannot resolve but we would dearly love to find him.  It would be nice to think he found success and perhaps a new family in the USA.

If anyone can help with identifying the photo or knows anything about Arthur could you please contact Barbara at barbmet@xtra.co.nz