Monthly Archives: December 2021

Philo Allen

Retailer, ,

1847-1848       164 Main Street, Buffalo, New York.

Philo Allen was recorded in two announcements in the Morning Express (Buffalo, New York).  The first advertisement ran from November 11, 1847 to January 8, 1848.  Daguerreotype Apparatus.  Philo Allen, 164 Main street, Buffalo, respectfully calls the attention of Daguerrian Artists to his large assortment of articles for their use.  Having for a number of years past been dealing in these articles he feels confident he has a better assortment of genuine materials than can usually be found away from the metropolitan cities, and the large amount of his sales enable him to offer them at as low prices [as] the same quality of materials can be found in the Union. Among his assortment may be found—

Scovill’s medium, quarter and half size plates, No. 1 and 2. E. White’s do do., Cases, of all sizes, styles and quality, including silk, velvet and satin lined, extra gilt, &c., &c. Thermometer Tubes, Prepared Buckskin, Colors and Brushers, Color Boxes, Calcined Rotten-stone, Distilled Mercury, Hyper-sulphate of Soda, [ ? ] of Potassium Bromine, German and American, Warranted pure, Iodine, Chloride of Iodine, Roche’s Quick Stuff, Chloride of Gold, Rogue, Black Polish, &c., &c. Mattings and Preservers, different sizes, Plate Glass, all sizes, Black Walnut and Rosewood Frames, Also—Voigtlander’s and Langenheim’s celebrated Cameras, and other apparatus furnished at New York prices.  Every article warranted genuine.

Artist and others wishing any thing in this line are invited to call and take prices.  Philo Allen, 164 Main st. 

The second advertisement ran from August 31 to after September 9, 1848.  Daguerreotype Materials…Unreadable…Poor film quality, out of focus, low resolution and over exposed.

Philo Allen is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as being active in Buffalo, New York prior to April 1854 without a business address.

Mr. Allen

Daguerreotypes, ,

1847 Rooms at Mr. Silas T. Ketcham’s, Huntington, New York.

Mr. Allen was recorded in one announcement and one advertisement in The Long Islander (Huntington, New York). The announcement appeared on July 2, 1847. Daguerreotypes. –we wish to add our moiety of praise to Mr. Allen’s specimen’s of this art.  To those who wish a facsimile of the “human face divine,” we would say, procure one without delay—and we know of no better way of paying a real compliment to a Lady, than to solicit her picture, and no greater acceptance of one’s own.  It strikes us, this would be an admirable manner of “popping the question”—and to those who intend visiting our village on the 5th, we would say call on Mr. Allen, we can vouch for his ability in the art.  The specimens we have examined, are sufficient recommendation of his efficiency.  See advertisement in another column.

The advertisement appeared on  July 2, 1847.  Allen’s United States Branch Daguerrian Gallery, Is now open at Mr. Silas T. Ketcham’s, in the village of Hunting, where he will that Daguerreotype portraits in the best manner.  Having by long experience in the business [ ?  ] improvements that have been made in the art, both in this country and in Europe—together with some valuable discoveries he has made in the art, enabled him to guarantee a Likeness not to be surpassed.

Copies taken from portraits, and painted, or Daguerreotype miniatures.

He will take likenesses for insertion in Rings, Breast Pins, Lockets or Bracelets.       

Lockets, Rings and Breast Pins for Daguerreotypes, on hand, which he will sell at reduced prices.

The Ladies and Gentlemen of Huntington, and the public in general are invited to call and examine his specimens.  Likenesses taken in all kinds of weather, and in all cases warranted perfect or no charge.—likenesses taken of the sick or deceased persons, at their residences, on the shortest notice.

N. B. Instructions given in the art.  Apparatus, chemicals of every kind, furnished at the lowest cash prices.                                          

Mr. Allen is not recorded in other photographic directories as being active in Huntington, New York in 1847.  It is possible this is William A. Allen active in Brooklyn, New York in 1848. And in New York City in 1849-1852.

Jonathan Allen

Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes, Photographs, , , , , ,

1856-1859       Main Street, Foot of Canal Street, Webster’s Building, Fort Plain, New York.

1857                Main Street, Canajoharie, New York.

1859                Address Unknown, Minden, New York[1]

Jonathan Allen was recorded in eight advertisements in the Mohawk Valley Register (Fort Plain, New York).  The first advertisement ran from March 6, 1856 to January 29, 1857.  Attention The Lost Found—the Secret Out!  “There is nothing hidden but that shall be revealed.  J. Allen would announce to the public that he is now prepared to take Daguerreotypes, Ambrotypes & Chromotypes.  The latter being a new style of Picture just brought to perfection.  They are taken on glass and no colored as to resemble oil paintings on ivory.  They will not fade, corrode at sea or change in any climate, are beautiful in tone, bold and clear in effect, and can be seen in any light as can also the Ambrotypes which he now takes in the latest improved style.  The public are invited to call at his rooms and examine specimens and judge for themselves.

Rooms foot of Canal street, in Webster’s Building.

The second advertisement ran from January 1, 1857 to April 8, 1858.  Fort Plain Business Cards.  J. Allen, Ambrotypist, and manufacturer of Guilt Frames, Main, Foot of Canal St.

The third advertisement ran from January 29 to April 23, 1857.  The Shadow. The Shadow. The Shadow. The Shadow. The Shadow. The Shadow.  Allen’s Pictures.  Allen’s Pictures. Allen’s Pictures.  Allen’s Pictures.  Allen’s Pictures.  Allen’s Pictures.  Allen’s Pictures.  Premium  Premium  Premium  Premium  Premium  Premium   Premium  Premium  Premium  Premium

At the last Montgomery County Fair, held at Canajoharie in September 1856, the Committee on Ambrotypes awarded to J. Allen The first Premium for his pictures—being superior in tone and life-like expression to all others on exhibition; and all those who have had pictures of him coined with the verdict of the Awarding Committee.

Mr. Allen, (in connection with H. Wendell of Amsterdam) has secured the Exclusive Right of Mont. County, Patent Patent Patent Patent for the manufacture of Cutting’s Patent Ambrotypes, which patent consists in the method of securing them from the action of the atmosphere, and rendering them durable by sealing the picture between two plate glass with a substance which soon hardens and becomes impervious to air, dust and water.

Beware Of Worthless Imitations!      

Beware Of Worthless Imitations!      

Beware Of Worthless Imitations!

Beware Of Worthless Imitations!

All Ambrotypes taken by any other method than Cutting’s patent are worthless imitations.  Some unskilled artists endeavor to evade the patent by palming the public pictures taken upon single glass and coating it with varnish which has a bad effect upon the chemicals and cause the picture to lose its luster in a short time.

Remember, Remember, Remember That the patent Premium Ambrotype may be had only of Allen, who has the exclusive right of the western portion of the County of Montgomery.

Pictures taken by Cutting’s Patent process possess the rare quality of imperishability—remaining unchanged for ages.  These pictures are pronounced to be the Greatest Improvement we have received in the Photographic Art since the days of Daguerre, having a clearness and relief that is truly astonishing.

Mr. Allen’s facilities for giving the public pictures of any size, are not surpassed in this section.  His stock of Cases and Frames comprise all the varieties—plain and fancy—to be found in market.

Our friends from the country, in visiting the village, are respectfully invited to give us a neighborly call in order to Examine our Specimens.  Examine our Specimens.  Examine our Specimens.  Memento.  Memento.  Memento.  Memento.  Memento.  Memento.  Memento.  Memento  We guarantee that no one, unless so desolate and discarded that he has not a solitary friend on earth, will be willing to depart without taking another self with him as a memento to present to some cherished one.

A first class likeness will be admired and treasured up long after almost every other kind of present is destroyed or forgotten—in fact growing more and more precious as each succeeding year rolls around, and with each anniversary recalling to memory the exact features of those we love.

Gilt Frames, Gilt Frames, Gilt Frames. 

A large stock of Gilt Mouldings, of various styles will constantly be kept on hand, and Frames of any size made to order, on short notice, and for reasonable prices.

Allen’s Rooms may be found in Webster’s Building, on Main St., foot of Canal St., Fort Plain, and on Main St., at the sign of the Red, White and Blue,” Canajoharie.

The fourth advertisement ran from May 9 to November 5, 1857.  1857.  Look Ye Here All Lovers Of Fine Pictures!  Seven different towns, fair cities of the earth, Strive for the fame of mighty Homer’s birth; But none the hard contested claim can prove; Two native place of Homer is above!  Before thy friends do vanish from thy sight, and go where Homer is, in realms of light, Secure their picture, as a treasure-prize, With budding lips and bright life-like eyes. 

Allen’s Premium Pictures Melainotypes and Ambrotypes!!  J. Allen would inform his patrons and the public generally that being determined to keep up with “Young America,” and not to be outdone, even in the large cities, he has secured the right, and is now prepared to make another New Style Of Picture, called Melainotype, which is a most beautiful specimen of the sun’s penciling.

The more delicate lineaments of the image are portrayed with a faithfulness surpassing that of the most brilliant Daguerreotype; the glowing tints of nature are blended in sublime harmony; all is here presented with the warmest penciling of Nature.  She has proven herself the Model Artist and gathered charm from all of her own creation, blending, by a single effort, in bold relief.

Beauties that no hand can equal portraying each feature with such exactness, as to seemingly create substance from shadow.  No true lover of nature will contemplate these specimens without feeling a lively admiration of the warm-toned and brilliant life-like effect they produced.  A continued look upon the wonders of art will fill the beholder with sublime enthusiasm, and bring the thought to his mind, “can Nature create such perfect self, and refuse a soul to feel and a tongue to speak?”

The subscriber has constantly on hand a Full assortment of Cases both Plain and Fancy, and all styles of Gilt Frames, all of which will be sold at reasonable prices, and filled with superior Melainotypes or Ambrotypes.

Gilt Frames.  A good assortment of moldings both Gilt and Plain constantly on hand, so that frames of all sizes and styles can be had on short notice.

Also a fine assortment of Lithographs & Steel Plates For Grecian Oil Painting. 

All Work Warranted.

Rooms open from 8 o’clock, A. M., to 6, P. M., and may be found in Webster’s Building, on Main St., foot of Canal St., Fort Plain.  J. Allen.  Fort Plain, May 1, 1857.

The fifth advertisement ran from November 12, 1857 to March 11, 1858.  A P P G stands For Allen’s Premium Picture Gallery.  Owing to the high price of money, J. Allen has reduced the price for Pictures and invites the attention of the public anew to his unequalled facilities for taking Pictures in the most tasty, artistical and complete style of the Photographic art.—His reception and dressing rooms will always be found Comfortable and Pleasant in all kinds of weather; his operating room is spacious and furnished with superior Sky and Side Lights, and all the requisite materials for that department; and his chemical room contains the choicest Foreign and American Chemicals, Glass, &c.

The patented Ambrotypes are considered the best picture extant.  They will last for ages unchanged, and possess the rare quality of imperishability. Being taken on plate glass, which is placed on a corresponding glass, the two being hermetically sealed together with an indestructible cement, which soon hardens and the two glasses become in effect one, with the picture in the center, as durable as glass itself.  The patent Ambrotype is particularly adapted to any kind of face and complexion, and has a clearness and relief that is truly astonishing.

Those desiring Perfect and Lasting Likenesses of themselves or friends, would do well to call and avail themselves of An Experienced Artist with a laboratory of pure chemicals, piles of superior stock, good lights, and best invented instruments. 

His rooms will be open at all business hours of the day.

Copies of Paintings, Portraits, Miniatures &c., executed in an unrivalled manner.

He has constantly on hand a Full assortment of Cases, both Plain and Fancy, and all styles of Gilt Frames, all of which will be sold at reasonable prices, and filled with superior Melainotypes or Ambrotypes.

Gilt Frames.  A good assortment of moldings both Gilt and Plain constantly on hand, so that frames of all sizes and styles can be had on short notice.

Also a fine assortment of Lithographs & Steel Plates For Grecian Oil Painting. 

All Work Warranted. 

His Rooms may be found in Webster’s Building, on Main St., foot of Canal St., Fort Plain. J. Allen.  Fort Plain, November 1, 1857.

The sixth advertisement ran from April 15, 1858 to April 21, 1859.  Fort Plain Business Cards.  J. Allen, Daguerreian Artists.—Likenesses Of the most approved style taken and warranted to give satisfaction.  Gilt Frames of all styles and sizes made to order.  Rooms in the Webster Building, Main-St.

The advertisement ran from August 19 to November 11, 1858.  New Attractions At J. Allen’s Picture Gallery.  The subscriber has recently procured the necessary Apparatus and Chemicals for taking Superior Photographs, which are without doubt the best pictures made.  Being taken on paper they bear a great resemblance to steel engravings, as they are deep-toned, clear and bold and can be view in any light, unlike pictures of other descriptions.  They are Warranted not to fade or change!  In other places where they have been introduced the changes for making this style of picture have been more than for Ambrotypes, but in order to introduce them the subscriber will furnish them at the same Prices As For Ambrotypes, of the same size, and should a person want a number of duplicates he will furnish them At A Much Lower Figure.  But one setting is required for any number of pictures that may be desired.

A cordial invitation is extended to all to call at his office and examine specimens.

Superior Ambrotypes are still taken, at prices varying from 60 cts. to $8.

A long experience in this business renders him capable of giving good satisfaction.

Ambrotypes put in Rings, Lockets, &c., and warranted.

Pictures taken of Invalids and Deceased Persons at their residence, on short notice.

Gilt, Rosewood, & Plain Frames of all sizes and styles, and fitted out with Glass, Cord and Tassels, manufactured on short notice, Lithographs and Steel Plate Engravings in great variety, for ornament or for Grecian Oil Painting constantly on hand, and for sale at reasonable prices.

Caution.—If you would secure Pictures the most durable and perfect, you should avoid patronizing persons of little experience, and Rooms where economy in space and light is certain to render the picture blunt in shade and harsh in tone.—Mr. Allen’s Rooms are ample, his light so arranged as to blend the picture in the most harmonious manner, and his long experience a sure guaranty of artistic excellence.        

Satisfaction Given In All Cases.  Call and examine the numerous specimens at his Rooms. J. Allen.  Fort Plain, August 19, 1858.

The eighth advertisement ran from June 23 to December 29, 1859.  Fort Plain Business Cards.  J. Allen, Photograph & Ambrotype Rooms, in the Webster Building, over Lipe’s Crockery Store.

Gilt and Rosewood Picture Frames of all sizes and styles manufactured to order.

Jonathan Allen is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as being active in Fort Plain and Minden, New York in 1859 without business addresses.

[1] Craig’s Daguerreian Registry.

J. C. Alexander

Daguerreotypes, ,

1852                Rooms on Court, between Front and Second streets, over Mrs. Worcester’s Notion Store, Portsmouth, Ohio.

1852                Rooms in Mr. Dugan’s New Building, Market Street, Portsmouth, Ohio.

1852                Rooms on Second Street, above Market opposite the Farmer’s Hotel, Portsmouth, Ohio.

J. C. Alexander was recorded in three advertisements and one announcement in The Portsmouth Inquirer (Portsmouth, Ohio).  The first advertisement appeared on April 2, 1852.  Daguerreotypes, J. C. Alexander, Would respectfully inform the citizens of Portsmouth and surrounding country, that he is now prepared to take Daguerreotypes in a manner superior to any offered in said city.

He has secured at a heavy expense the latest and most valuable discoveries in the art,—one of which is a newly discovered chemical, which gives to pictures a natural flesh color, and makes the richest drapery ever taken by Daguerreotype Process.  With his new improvements, his practice, skill, and desire to please, he flatters himself he cannot fail to give satisfaction.

Ladies and Gentlemen Are solicited to call and examine his specimens particularly those which he has taken in this place.

Having the advantage of a skylight, he can take pictures light or dark, and with or without a shade, to suit the fancy of customers.  Hours of Operation, from 8 o’clock A. M. to 4 P. M.  Instructions in the Art, will be given, with the entire apparatus for operating, on very moderate terms.  Rooms on Court, between Front and Second streets, over Mrs. Worcester’s “Notion Store.”  Portsmouth, March 29, 1852.

The second advertisement ran from August 13 to 20, 1852.  J. C. Alexander, Daguerreotypist, Is again on the track, and can’t be run off it.  He is now making pictures that cannot be beaten, East nor West.  Having had the 3d story of Mr. Dugan’s new building, on Market street, fitted up expressly for a Daguerrean Gallery.

With a large North and a Sky-light combined, which is acknowledged by all No. 1 artists to be far superior to any other, and a new combination of chemicals [discovered by himself and known to no other] far surpassing any now in use, as may be seen by calling at his rooms and examining likenesses of our own citizens just taken in his New Gallery, he is satisfied that he can make as good a picture as any artist extant.

Having concluded to remain in Portsmouth, he is determined that no picture shall leave his gallery unless it is O. K.  Persons examining his specimens will please remember that they were taken by himself and not by Mr. Root, of Philadelphia, though they are as good as any ever taken by that celebrated artist and brought to this place. 

Ladies and Gentlemen of town and country are respectfully solicited to call and examine for themselves, the operator feeling assured that if they once see the beautiful flesh color and lite-like appearance of his specimens, they will not fail to have their own picture taken. 

N. B.  Pictures taken in all kinds of weather, and warranted good.  Instructions given in the art, and the entire apparatus furnished, if desired.  Rooms on Market street, 5 doors below 2d st.  Portsmouth, Aug. 12, 1852.

The announcement appeared on November 26, 1852.  J. C. Alexander is now prepared to take daguerreotypes at one dollar each, in the room formerly occupied by Stephenson’s book bindery.  See advertisement in another column.

The third advertisement ran from November 26 to December 24, 1852.  Daguerreotypes, J. C. Alexander Has reduced the price of pictures to One dollar, and is now ready to accommodate the public with an article superior to any ever offered to the citizens of Portsmouth by other operators.

Pictures reduced for a short time only.  The public are respectfully invited to call and examine specimens.  N. B.—A first-rate apparatus on hand which will be sold below cost.  Instructions given in the art for fifteen dollars.  Rooms on Second st, above Market opposite the Farmer’s Hotel.           Nov. 23, 1852.

J. C. Alexander is not recorded in other photographic directories.

L. Aldridge

Daguerreotypes, ,

1846                82 Merrimack Street, Lowell, Massachusetts.

L. Aldridge was recorded in three advertisements and one announcement.  The first advertisement appeared in the Lowell Daily (Lowell, Massachusetts) on May 29, 1846.   

Daguerreotype Miniature Rooms, 82 Merrimack Street.  L. Aldridge, Would invite the attention of the public to splendid Miniatures now being daily executed at his Rooms.  The late improvements which he has made in polishing the plates, enables him to take the finest and best pictures that this beautiful and valuable art can produce.

N. B.  Gold And Plated Lockets kept constantly on hand, and cheaper than can be found in the City.

The public are respectfully invited to call and examine specimens.

The announcement appeared on June 10, 1846 also in the Lowell Daily.  Mr. Aldridge, at his Daguerreotype Miniature Rooms, 82 Merrimack street, has lately added to his collection some splendid pictures of several of our own citizens.  Give him a call.

The second and third advertisement in The Niagara (Lowell, Massachusetts).  The second advertisement appeared on July 25, 1846.  Daguerreotype Miniature Rooms!  No. 82 Merrimack Street, Lowell. L. Aldridge, Would invite the attention of the public to splendid Miniatures now being daily exhibited at his Rooms.  The late improvements which he has made in polishing the plates, enables him to take the Finest and Best Pictures that this beautiful and valuable art can produce.

Gold And Plated Lockets kept constantly on hand, and cheaper than can be found in the City.

The public are respectfully invited to call and examine specimens.

And the third appeared on August 22, 1846. 

Daguerreotype Miniatures—Again.  I noticed in your No. of August 15th [1, an article which seems to come from a fool source, or from some one a little out of humor.  The first important statement is that a “gentleman”(?) At No. 20 Merrimack street exhibits pictures taken by Thompson, Artist, as his own.  In re[ply] to this, I would say, I have proof ample and abundant that I have not one picture in my show-cases, or about my door, except my own likeness (for which I made every preparation,) but was taken by myself.  I presume Mr. A., whose name is mentioned in the article referred to, will not pretend that I have had better pictures than I now have—if he does, I can easily give satisfaction on that point.  The next important statement is, that the stock recently purchased by me is “nearly good for nothing,”—a sufficient portion of which I now have, to make this statement a perfect libel.  Among what I now have at my rooms, purchased in the very lot referred to, is one large German Camera of the best quality ever imported—the same instrument with which those pictures were taken, whose location so much displeases Mr. A.  But then, Mr. A., you need not be too much alarmed!  Just hand over the $100 you offer, and I will take one or one dozen, as good pictures as you marvel at, and then learn you in less than one year to take quite respectable Daguerreotype Miniatures.The Man At The Old Stand, No. 20 Merrimack street, Lowell.  Aug. 20, 1846.

L. Aldridge is not recorded in other photographic directories.

[1] Issue not available at the time of posting (12-27-2021)

John L. Alcooke

Ambrotypes, Niellographs, Photographs, , , , ,

1857-1858       483 Broadway, New York, New York.

John L. Alcooke of the firm Grant & Alcooke (A. G. Grant & John L. Alcooke) were recorded in in an advertisement the New York City Directory and twelve advertisements in The New York Herald (New York, New York).  The advertisement appeared in the 1857-1858 New York City Directory.  Grant & Alcooke’s Improved Skylight Gallery, Photographic and Ambrotype Emporium, On the First Floor, No. 483 Broadway, Adjoining Wallack’s Theatre, New York.

Colored or Plain, Single Or Double, Dense Or Transparent, done instantaneously, and without fail.  Daguerreotypes Renovated and Copied in every style, at the shortest possible notice, and at a moderate price.

The first advertisement appeared on May 7, 1857.  Grant & Alcooke’s First Class Ambrotypes and photographs, 483 Broadway, next door to Wallack’s theatre, first floor.

The second appeared on May 8, 1857.  Grant & Alcooke’s Improved Light, First floor, 483 Broadway.—Photographs colored or plain vitae portraits and ambrotypes, stereoscopic, [transparent] or plain.

The third advertisement ran on May 21 & 22, 1857.  Unequalled are the Ambrotypes and Photographs taken at Grant & Alcooke’s improved light, first floor, 483 Broadway, adjoining Wallack’s theatre.

The fourth appeared on September 9, 1857.  Ambrotypes, Photographs and Vitae Portraits at Grant & Alcooke’s, first floor, 483 Broadway, are all the rage.

The fifth appeared on December 2, 1857.  Ambrotypes and Photographs, Cheap and perfect, taken at Grant & Alcooke’s, 483 Broadway, adjoining Wallack’s theatre.

The sixth appeared on January 3 ,1858.  Ambrotypes, Pielleographs, sic. Melainotypes, photographs and oil portraits, taken at Grant & Alcooke’s gallery, 483 Broadway, every day, until their departure for Europe.

The seventh appeared on January 6, 1858.  Ambrotypes, Heillographs, sic. Photographs and oil portraits, taken at Grant & Alcooke’s gallery, 483 Broadway, daily until their departure for Europe.

The eighth appeared on January 7, 1858.  Ambrotypes, Niellographs, Photographs and oil portraits, taken at Grant & Alcooke’s, 483 Broadway, daily, until their departure for Europe.

The ninth appeared on February 19, 1858.  To Photographic Artists.—For Sale, after March 1st., Grant & Alcooke’s improved Gallery, first floor, 483 Broadway.

The tenth appeared on March 5, 1858.  To Photographers.—For Sale, the Beautiful gallery 483 Broadway, now doing a large business, as Messrs. Grant & Alcooke’s are about leaving for Europe.

The eleventh appeared on April 15, 1858.  Grant & Alcooke’s Ambrotypes and Photographs, Niellographs, to send in letters.  First floor, 483 Broadway.

The twelfth appeared on April 26, 1858.  Niellographs, Niellographs, Niellographs.  Ambrotypes and Photographs by Grant & Alcooke, 483 Broadway.  Last week in America.

John L. Alcooke is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry without a business address.

A. P. Albee

Daguerreotypes, , , ,

1849                 236 Main Street, Worcester, Massachusetts.

A. P. Albee of the firm Gilmore & Albee (William H. Gilmore & A. P. Alee) was recorded in two advertisements in the Worcester Daily Spy (Worcester, Massachusetts).  The first advertisement ran from February 1 to July 6, 1849.  New daguerreotype Gallery.  Gilmore & Albee, Having fitted up the large and commodious Room, 236 Main Street, (Paine’s Block,) over Horace Ayres’ Grocery Store, formerly occupied by Miss Allen as a School Room, would respectfully inform the public that they are prepared to take Daguerreotype Miniatures, of the different sizes, and of superior appearance, tone and finish on the most reasonable terms.  With German Instruments of the first quality, and very superior light, they warrant their Pictures to be equal, if not superior to any produced in this city or elsewhere; and having had extensive experience in the business, they are confident of giving satisfaction to those who may favor them with their patronage.

They wish it distinctly understood that no person is expected to take a Picture from their Room unless they are perfectly satisfied with its life-like appearance, as well as superior finish.  Wm. H. Gilmore, A. P. Albee.                                                                                

The second advertisement ran from July 9 to August 23, 1849.  Copartnership Notice.  The copartnership hereto fore existing by the name of Gilmore & Albee is by Mutual consent, this day dissolved.  Wm. H. Gilmore, A. P. Albee, Worcester, June 19, 1849.

N. B.   The Daguerreotype business will be continued at the old stand, 235 Main St., by the Subscriber.  Pictures taken at all times, without regard to weather.  Perfect satisfaction or no charge.  Please call and examine my Life Like, Pictures and Judge for yourselves.  Wm. H. Gilmore.  July 3.

A. P. Albee is not recorded in other photographic directories. William H. Gilmore is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as being active in Worcester at 236 Main Street in 1850, and possibly in Providence, Rhode Island in 1846.

Perley Ainsworth

Daguerreotypes, ,

1858-1859       Rooms in Union Block, Cape Vincent, New York.

Perley Ainsworth is recorded in three advertisements and one announcement in The Cape-Vincent Gazette (Cape Vincent, New York.)  the first advertisement ran from May 15 to September 18, 1858. Miniature, Portraits, Landscapes, and views in every style of Daguerrean Art, as accurate, beautiful and cheap as at any Gallery in the State.  Ambrotypes in cases from 2 shillings to 5 Dollars.  Rooms in Union Block.  Perley Ainsworth, Artist.    Cape Vincent, 1858.

The second advertisement ran from October 2, 1858 to August 20, 1859.  Portraits and Landscapes.  In every style of Daguerrean Art, in Lockets, Frames or Cases, Electro Gilding and Silvering, Over Hungerford’s Store, in Union Block, Broadway, Cape Vincent.  Perley Ainsworth, Artist.

The announcement appeared on October 23, 1858.—Mr. Perley Ainsworth, Daguerrean Artist, in this village, wishes us to say to his friends, and all who wish to have their shadows redeemed, that he will take Daguerreotypes, and will trust for the same until Edwin D. Morgan is elected Governor of this State.

The third advertisement ran from March 26 to August 20, 1859. To Rent.  I now offer to rent on reasonable terms, the room over my store (now occupied by Perley Ainsworth as a Daguerrean Gallery) It is well lighted, bot by sky and side lights.  H. H. Hungerford.  Cape Vincent, March 23d, 1859.

Perley Ainsworth is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as being active in 1859 without a business address.

R. Adkins

Daguerreotypes, , , ,

1853                Telegraph Room, Court House, Liberty, Missouri.

R. Adkins was mentioned in an advertisement in the Liberty Weekly Tribune (Liberty, Missouri) on November 18, 1853.  Daguerrean Gallery:  Telegraph Room Court House, Liberty, MO.  J. C. R. Clark, would respectfully inform the public that having purchased out Mr. R. Atkins’ Daguerreotype Stock he is now prepared to take miniatures in a superior style.

His friends, Ladies, and Gentlemen, and the public generally, are politely invited to call at his room and examine specimens.  His miniatures are warranted to give satisfaction.  Liberty, June 24, 1853.

R. Adkins is not recorded in other photographic directories as being active in Liberty, Missouri in 1853.  A Robert Adkins is recorded as being active in 1862 in Liberty, Missouri in  Pioneer Photographers From The Mississippi To The Continental Divide A Biographical Dictionary, 1839-1865.  It is unknown, but possible that they are the same person.

Robert W. Addis

Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes, Melainotypes, Photographs, , , , , , ,

1851 Corner of Centre Square and North Queen Street, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.[1]

1853                Corner Light and Baltimore Streets, Baltimore, Maryland.[2]

1855                187 Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland.[3]

1855-1857       Gallery Next Door West of the City Hotel, Frederick, Maryland.

1858-1859       20½ East King Street, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.1

Robert W. Addis was recorded in six advertisements in the Maryland Union (Frederick, Maryland). The first advertisement appeared on December 27, 1855. Ambrotypes, Photographs, Daguerreotypes, And Every Style Of Picture Known Can Now Be Had At Addis’ Sky-Light Gallery Next Door West Of The City Hotel.

Having completed my instructions at the Gallery of the most Celebrated Photographist and Ambrotypist in the United States, I am prepared top offer to the public every style of pictures known, at greatly reduced rates.

Ambrotypes, or Imperishable Pictures!  This beautiful style of Picture is taken on fine French Plate Glass, and warranted never to fade in any climate.  The advantages over the Daguerreotypes consist in their being unreversed, more brilliant and clear in tone and effects, and can be distinctly seen in any light, or in any position.  A call is only necessary to convince all.

Photographs.  Are taken on Paper, (especially prepared for the purposes,) and cannot be distinguished from a fine steel plate engraving, the likeness being as perfectas a Daguerreotype.  The great improvements in this branch of sun Drawing, by the most celebrated Chemists of this country and Europe, place it far in advance of all other styles.  Another advantage is, that the Picture being a part of the paper, can only be erased by destroying the paper.  These can be supplied by single impressions, or hundreds at an extraordinary low price.  Of Photographs, I have two processes:  Collodion for Portraits, and Albumen for Views, Buildings, Landscapes, Farms, with all buildings attached, &c.  A variety of specimens at the Gallery.

Persons, wishing copies of Buildings, will please remember this, as they are far superior to Daguerreotypes, they being unreversed and beautiful ornaments for a parlor. Great reduction in price of Gold Lockets, Gilt Frames and fancy cases, all of which I have the largest assortment in this city; and all who wish to make a Beautiful and Appropriate Christmas Present, in the way of Lockets, Pearl Cases, Oval and square Ebony, Velvet, or Papier Mache, would do well to call at the City Gallery, where they can be supplied, 50 per ct. cheaper, with Ambrotypes or better Daguerreotypes than at any Gallery in this city.  I am determined to sell my Fancy Stock, cheaper than the cheapest Galleries.

The Daguerrean Apartment will be under the immediate control of D. T. Coweel, [sic.] Esq., late principal Operator at Whitehurst’s Gallery, Baltimore, whose services I have secured and whose reputation as an artist is unsurpassed in the country, as those, who had Pictures taken during my absence, will corroborate.

N. B.—Persons wishing to learn Ambrotyping and Photographing, will do well to call on me as I warrant full instructions for less money than I paid, and of my work they can judge for themselves; facilities for acquiring a perfect knowledge of the business, and can be supplied with material at the cost price without going to the larger cities.  Frederick, Dec. 22, 1855.  R. W. Addis.

The second advertisement ran from August 21 to December 25, 1856. Remember That next door West of the City Hotel, is Addis’ Northern Sky-Light Gallery, Where Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes, and Photographs, are taken in the highest perfection of the Art.  Especial attention is called to Ambrotypes, his new and popular process is fast superceding the old style Daguerreotypes, not in their being more durable but for beauty of pictures, they can be seen in any light no matter what position in which they are held, thus doing away with that unpleasant glare which all Daguerreotypes must have and rendering the surface soft and pleasing. When family groups are required in frames, this process is indispensable, for the Likeness can be distinctly seen across a room as accurately as though ’twas in the hand—and for persons who wish pictures to last—one that in fifty years hence will bring vividly to mind a perfect likeness of departed friends or relatives.  This process stands unequalled, and in range of every one in any circumstances in point of price.  In corroboration of this, you have only to call and examine specimens.

Paper Pictures Or Photographs.  These beautiful and also indispensable pictures, are a fac simile of steel plate engravings and when a number are required, they are much cheaper than the lowest price Daguerreotype, thus if one person wants 25 copies, a perfect likeness can be made at 50 cts. apiece, the largest size.

Daguerreotypes, In every Style Of The Art. Crayon, Stereoscope, light and dark background.  The Daguerreotype taken [in] this establishment, for the last 18 months rank with the best productions in the country to perfection of likeness, fleshiness of tone, position, artistic and for brilliancy of finish.  Persons who wish copies of old daguerreotypes of departed friends and relatives can have them accurately taken in either of the above styles.  Pictures neatly set in Breastpins, Rings, Lockets, &c., a variety of Fancy Cases, and full assortment of Gold Lockets always on hand and cheap.

Study your own interest and call on Addis over J. Nussbaunt’s confectionary.

P. S.—Persons who wish to learn Daguerreotyping, Ambrotyping or Photographing, and get a perfect knowledge of all chemical apparatus, &c., would do well to call on Addis.   

The third advertisement ran from December 11, 1856 to February 5, 1857.  Christmas Presents.  Remember Addis’ Sky-Light Daguerrean Gallery Next door to the City Hall, Offers the greatest inducement in the way of suitable presents of any establishment in this city.  A large and fresh assortment of Fine Gold Lockets. Made to hold from 1 to 10 Daguerreotypes so that a whole family can be inserted in one locket; lockets purchased at this place are warranted and a large deduction made for the likeness, making the lockets filled with pictures cheaper by 40 per ct. than can be had elsewhere.

Fancy cases of every description both for Daguerreotypes and Ambrotypes.  Also a large lot of handsome Gilt Frames fresh from the manufactures, sold very little higher than cases.

Don’t forget if you wish anything in the Daguerreotype, Ambrotype or Photograph way to give Addis’ a call, where satisfaction is warranted at an extraordinary cheap rate. 

The fourth advertisement ran from January 22 to March 12, 1857.  Cheap:  Cheaper:  Cheapest!  75 Cts.!  75 Cts.!  Ambrotypes, Melainotypes, Daguerreotypes & Photographs, At Addis’ Sky-Light Gallery:  (Next door to the City Hotel,) For 75 Cents!

Finely Colored, and put up in large size cases, and finely secured, and warranted as good if not better than any taken in this town for $2.

Ambrotypes & Melainotypes are precisely the same thing, bade by the same process and presenting the same appearance,—the only difference is, that Ambrotypes are made on glass, and Melainotypes on iron, the latter process being preferable for many reasons, It being impossible to break them, also being more sensitive to color, for beauty of which they far surpassnthe Daguerreotype.  They can plainly be seen in any light, can be cut to fit lockets, rings, breastpins, oval cases, or any style whatever.

In thus lowering the prices of my pictures, I merely act as my competitors did, when I first made my residence here, and I am now determined to be as cheap as any Gallery in Frederick, if not cheaper; and make as good Pictures as I ever made for double the price now asked for them; and would respectfully inform the many persons who have called at my room for low-priced Daguerreotypes, and been refused and sent elsewhere, to call again, and in place of Daguerreotypes I will give them Ambrotypes or Melainotypes, furnished in the most careful and durable manner.  For &5 Cents!  A large assortment of Gold Lockets, Gilt Frames, and Fancy Cases, of every style, sold for nearly one half the regular price; in fact, a general reduction of everything.

Notice to Students.  All who wish to learn Ambrotyping, Melainotyping, Daguerreotyping or Photographing, can do so at my rooms for $20, and satisfaction guaranteed. An outfit, including instructions, camera and all materials, furnished for $64, and everything prepared so as to open a room one day after getting instructions.  ja.9.   

The fifth advertisement ran from February 12 to April 9, 1857.  Daguerreotypes, Ambrotypes, Melainotypes and Photographs, at Addis’ unequalled Sky-Light Gallery, for the sum of 75 cents.

The sixth advertisement ran from April 2 to 9, 1857.  Don’t Forget Addis’ Gallery, where you can get a Splendid Melainotype, done up in a fine case, and beautifully colored, for 75 Cents, warranted to give satisfaction.

Robert W. Addis is recorded in other directories but not in Frederick, Maryland.

[1] Craig’s Daguerreian Registry.

[2] Craig’s Daguerreian Registry. Craig used the1853-1854 Baltimore City Directory which was published in 1853, there is no corroborating information that he was still active at that address in 1854.

[3] Directory Of Maryland Photographers 1839-1900.  1855-1856 Baltimore City Directory which was published in 1855, there is no corroborating information that he was still active at that address in 1856.