In honor of Kentucky Derby Day today I thought I’d post an old picture that one of my cousins was kind enough to send me. The picture above (click for a larger image) is of my father’s cousin Virginia Schuler and her father and mother, Anton and Virginia. My father’s Uncle Tony was one of the great Damon Runyonesque characters in my family. He was elected Sheriff of St. Louis. I’ll post some campaign pictures one day.
And Aunt Virginia’s hats! I never knew Aunt Virginia but to go out wearing the most amazing hats. The pictures I have of her are a document of women’s hats from about 1914 to the mid 1970’s.
This picture was taken at the Kentucky Derby in 1946. Don’t believe it was at the Derby? Here’s a group shot.
Same pose. Same outfits. The ladies are wearing the same corsages. Check out the background.
I like old photos. I’ve got a couple good ones from that time period myself, including my grandfather in the Navy during World War II. I’ve also got some even older ones, like my great-great-uncle and his cricket team from the 1890s.
I’ve got family photos going back to the 1860’s. Lots from the 1880’s and after. I’ll be posting some of the more interesting ones over time here.
Hi Dave,
I was checking your site for family info and found my mom and grandparents’ picture. I absolutely love that picture and have it up on my mantel. A lot of the family pictures were not labeled but the story was my mom and her friend, Doris O’Connor went when they were 15 or 15…that would be 1933 or 1934. My mom was married in 1941 and by 1946, she had 4 kids and her and my dad were certainly not enjoying the Derby that year. I would love to hear more Schuler history. Did your mom and sisters enjoy the pictures. Keep in touch.
I have just come across your photos of the Kentucky Derby and the date you give, 1946, is incorrect from the fashion perspective. The fashions date from c1934-35. Great photos and interesting blog.
Thanks for your observations, Christina. I don’t think there’s any way that Cousin Virginia (the woman on the left) was 15 when the picture was taken. That means it had to have been later.
Hi Dave, This picture was taken when my mom was 15 or 16. By 1946, she was married with 4 children. So the picture was from 1933 or 1934. Do you have more to share on the St. Louis Schuler Family? Thanks, Pat