Our probable photographer lived on Payne Street, which is now known as Battery Place. This photo appears to be a newly constructed home near his. I was happy to discover this unique structure still remains there as well. It was built in 1896 by Linn White, a primary supervisor of the Incline #2 construction (i.e. - The Incline).

NEW INCLINE UP LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN AT CHATTANOOGA
The third railway to ascend Lookout Mountain, at Chattanooga, was placed in operation last November by the Lookout Incline & Lula Lake Railway Company. The engineering, both civil and mechanical, was done by the firm of Guild & White, of Chattanooga. The preparation of the plans and construction were under the immediate supervision of Linn White, of the above firm. Street Railway Review Jan 15, 1896

1897 Chattanooga City Directory Listing

At the front door of 23 Payne Street, a young girl models for the camera. The photo's focus, lighting, and composition are excellent. She is not likely related to the residents, as Mr. & Mrs. White did not have any daughters of that age while living there. Nor did the subsequent residents, Mr. Lawrence H. Bixby and his wife Myrtle, who lived there by 1902.

Much of the wall here still remains near the corner of Lindsay and 5th Streets. Newly planted trees suggest recent development of the area - likely around 1900.

The angle of the sun tells us it's mid to late afternoon. Apparently, a little snow did not cancel school, as several children appear to be coming home from classes - clutching their books as spectators to the sledding action.

2014 - Click for Mapped Location

The photographer took several out of the ordinary shots - with wonderful results. Three children ‘assist’ with picking peaches - a woman is mostly hidden from view by leaves.

Several photos of home interiors are included in the collection. It is the end of the 'Gilded Age'. The abundance of 'things' suggests a new consumerism and leisure class is emerging.