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G. H. Babcock

Daguerreotypes, ,

1851-1852       Room’s Next Door to H. & F. Sheffield’s Store, Westerly, Rhode Island.

G. H. Babcock was recorded in five advertisements and possibly on the masthead of The Literary Echo or The Literary Echo, Westerly, Rhode Island.  The first advertisement ran from April 1 to 17, 1851 in The Literary Echo (Westerly, Rhode Island).  Sky-Light Daguerreotypes.  The subscriber is prepared to execute Daguerreotypes in the best style of the art, at his rooms, next door to H. & F. Sheffield’s Store.

Using one of the best Chemicals known, and a German Instrument of the first quality, in connection with a Large Sky-Light, Which is acknowledged by all to be the best light for Photographic Purposes, he feels free to warrant a Daguerreotype, beautiful as a picture and accurate as a likeness, to all who may favor him with a sitting.

Particular attention is called to the distinctness of the Eyes and Drapery, and to the pleasing effect of the shadows.

Hints For Sitters.—Dark Dresses are mostly preferable, but pink, blue and white should generally be rejected.  A shawl thrown carelessly over the shoulders often improves the picture.  For Gentlemen, dark clothes not entirely new, are to be preferred.  Morning light is the best.  G. H. Babcock.  Pawcatuck, April 1.

G. H. Babcock name appears on the masthead as the Proprietor of The Literary Echo, (Westerly, Rhode Island.) from April 1 to August 21, 1851.  His name also appears on the masthead The Literary Echo and Pawcatuck Advertiser (Westerly, Rhode Island) from August 28, 1851 to October 27, 1853 with E. G. Champlin as Editors and Proprietors.  It is unknown at this time if they are the same person.

The second advertisement ran from April 24 to May 1, 1851 in The Literary Echo (Westerly, Rhode Island).  Sky-Light Daguerreotypes.  The subscriber is prepared to execute Daguerreotypes in the best style of the art, at his rooms, next door to H. & F. Sheffield’s Store.

Using one of the best Chemicals known, and a German Instrument of the first quality, in connection with a Large Sky-Light, Which is acknowledged by all to be the best light for Photographic Purposes, he feels free to warrant a Daguerreotype, beautiful as a picture and accurate as a likeness, to all who may favor him with a sitting.

Particular attention is called to the distinctness of the Eyes and Drapery, and to the pleasing effect of the shadows.

Hints For Sitters.—Dark Dresses are mostly preferable, but pink, blue and white should generally be rejected.  A shawl thrown carelessly over the shoulders often improves the picture.  For Gentlemen, dark clothes not entirely new, are to be preferred.  Morning light is the best.  G. H. Babcock.  Pawcatuck, April 1.

Notice.—G. H. Babcock would inform his friends and the public that he has closed his Daguerrean Rooms for a few weeks, after which he will be happy to wait upon all who may favor him with their patronage in that line of business.

The third advertisement ran from December 18, 1851 to May 20, 1852 in The Literary Echo and Pawcatuck Advertiser (Westerly, Rhode Island).  Sky-Light Daguerreotypes.  The Subscriber, having re-opened his rooms with many additions and improvements, would inform his friends and the public generally, that he is now prepared to take likenesses in the best style, and at the lowest prices at which good pictures can be obtained.  Using the best German Instruments, and the most effectual Chemical Combinations known, in connection with a Large Sky-Light, he will furnish pictures which shall be inferior to none in their accuracy and beauty of finish.

Please call and examine specimens.  Rooms in the same building with the Printing-Office.  G. H. Babcock.

The fourth advertisement ran on May 13 & 20, 1852 in The Literary Echo and Pawcatuck Advertiser.  Daguerreotypes For Two Weeks Only.  G. H. Babcock will close his rooms in two weeks.  All those desiring good pictures, will do well to call soon.

The fifth advertisement ran from August 26 to October 16, 1852 in The Literary Echo and Pawcatuck Advertiser.  Back Again!  Daguerreotypes. The subscriber having again reopened his Daguerrean Rooms for a short time would inform his friends that he is prepared to “catch their shadows” in a superior manner.  The arrangement of his Sky Light is not surpassed in the State, and his chemicals are the best manufactured.  His pictures are to well known to need comments.  Please call at his rooms next to H. & F. Sheffield’s Store and see for yourselves.  G. H. Babcock.  Westerly, Aug. 26, 1852.

G. H. Babcock is not listed in other photographic directories.

Mr. Babbitt

Daguerreotypes, ,

1849                Rooms Over Maynard’s store, Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Mr. Babbitt was recorded in one advertisement that ran from February 22 and March 8, 1849 in the True Democrat (Ann Arbor, Michigan).  Daguerreotype Portraits.  Now, or, may be, Never. 

Of those whom you fond emotions cherish,

Secure the shadow ere the substance parish.

Mr. Babbitt.  Begs respectfully to announce to the inhabitants of this place and vicinity, that he has opened Daguerrean Rooms here for a few days, for the purpose of taking his superior style of likenesses in every variety of size and [sitting], vix:  Frames, Cases, Lockets, Rings, Medallions, Bracelets and Breast Pins.

Likenesses can be had in a few moments sitting, which for strength of impression and beauty of tone have stood comparison with the best operators of the [cast].  Those beautiful miniatures are more accurate even than the best of steel engravings, portraying every lineament of the face with startling exactness with the dalliance of that freshness of expression and coloring of life.

Important discoveries have been made in the art, whereby pictures are made perfectly indelible and susceptible of coloring, without which they are neither perfect or beautiful.  These portraits are warranted not to fade, and perfect satisfaction given or no charge.

Ladies and Gentlemen are respectfully invited to call and examine specimens, whether they intend having miniatures or not.  Ladies calling to sit, are advised to avoid light dresses, such as pink or light blue [ ? ], black or dark plaid and stripes are best for a good effect.

Likenesses taken in clear or cloudy weather.  Instructions given in the art, and apparatus furnished.   Rooms over Maynard’s store, Ann Arbor, Jan. 4, 1849.

Mr. Babbitt is not recorded in other photographic directories.

Homer H. Atwood

Daguerreotypes, ,

1855-1856       435 Broadway, New York, New York.

Homer H. Atwood was recorded in one announcement and one article,  The announcement appeared in The New York Herald (New York, New York) on June 11, 1855.  Reward.—Stolen From The Hall Of Atwood’s daguerrean rooms, 435 Broadway, corner of Howard street, on Saturday night, a black walnut show case, about 2½ by 3 feet, filled with valuable daguerreotype specimens.  Whoever will return the same will be handsomely rewarded.  N. B.—Daguerreotypist are cautioned against purchasing the above.

The article appeared on  January 1, 1856 in the Photographic and fine Arts Journal (New York, New York).  In an article entitled the Photographic Galleries of America.  Number One, New York. The author visited 69 Galleries in New York City.

Atwood[1] — A respectable gallery. Few specimens on hand to judge from.

Homer H. Atwood is recorded in other photographic directories, but is included here because of the first-hand account of his work.

[1] Not all first names or complete addresses were recorded.   Craig’s Daguerreian Registry was used to assist in identification when possible first name and address was added.

J. Atkyn

Daguerreotypes, ,

1856                St. James Hall, Beaver Island, Michigan.

J. Atkyn appeared in one advertisement on May 1, 1856 in the Daily Northern Islander (St. James, Michigan).  Correct And Life-Like Daguerreotypes.  J. Atkyn, Daguerrean Artist, St. James Hall, Beaver Island, Mich., Having fitted and furnished his Daguerrean Room in a style for comfort and convenience, not surpassed by any in Manitou and adjacent counties, will be happy to receive visitors,  His mode of taking pictures completely obviates the necessity of from one to three minutes.  It can be done as well in from ten to thirty seconds, and in full cases less than one minute.

N.B.  Instructions in the art, with all the late improvements, given.  Ladies and gentlemen would do well to give him a call.  His pictures are taken on silver plate, over which is  a coating of gold.  They will not corrode at sea, or change in any climate; are beautiful in tenor, bold and clear in effect.  Call and examine specimens, at St. James Hall.

Gallery open from 9 A. M., to 4 P. M.  Likenesses taken in clear or cloudy weather.  Beaver Island, April 28, ’56.

J. Atkyn is recorded in David V. Tinder’s on-line Directory of Early Michigan Photographers as being active in Beaver Island, in 1855-1856.

R. Atkins

Daguerreotypes, ,

1853                Address Unknown, Liberty, Missouri.

R. Atkins was mentioned in one advertisement that was recorded on November 18, 1853 in the Liberty Weekly Tribune (Liberty, Missouri).  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. Atkins is not recorded in other photographic directories.

Mrs. Agnes M. Armstrong

Daguerreotypes, Retailer, Stereoviews, , , ,

1850-1851 Address Unknown, Peekskill, New York.1

1853                Address Unknown, Peekskill, New York.

1859                Address Unknown, Peekskill, New York.

Mrs. Agnes M. Armstrong was recorded in the Photographic Art-Journal (New York, New York) in the February 1853 issue. Minutes of The N. Y. State Daguerrean Association…Moved that Nichols, Benedict and Whitney, be a committee to investigate the character and good standing of the persons proposed for membership, and report at this meeting.,,

The committee of investigation reported the names of J. B. Marcus, Chenango; G. Evans, Utica; L. Gray, Oswego; E. A. Hudson, Syracuse; Mrs. Agnes M. Armstrong, Peekskill; Mrs. Marcilia W. Barnes, Salem Cross Roads; all of whom were unanimously elected…

1859 October 29.  Highland Democrat.  (Peekskill, New York.)  October 29, 1859, Vol. XV, No. 4, P. 3.

A. M. Armstrong Informs the residents of Peekskill and vicinity that at her rooms may be found every style of Stereoscopes, With superior plates and designs by French, English and American Artists, which are offered for sale at prices lower than they can be obtained outside of New York City.  Call and See!!  Peekskill, June 7, 1859.

Advertisement was recorded on October 29 & November 26, 1859.

Mrs. Agnes M. Armstrong is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Register as Miss Armstrong in

1850-1851, 1853.

[1] Craig’s Daguerreian Register listed as Miss A. M. Armstrong.

J. L. Armstrong

Daguerreotypes, ,

1850                Military Hall, [Jamaica, New York.]

J. L. Armstrong appeared in one announcement in the Long Island Farmer, and Queens County Advertiser (Jamaica, New York) on August 27, 1850.  Daguerreotypes.—Perfect likenesses are always desirable, and an opportunity that seldom occurs, is now offered to our citizens.  The celebrated Daguerrian artist, J. L. Armstrong, has opened his new Daguerrian Gallery at Military Hall, (George C. McKee’s) in this village, where he will remain only a few days.  His pictures are skilfully and artistically made, and his likenesses are finished in such a manner as are warranted not to fade.

J. L. Armstrong is not recorded in other photographic directories.

J. E. Armstrong

Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes, , , ,

1854                Rooms over Brooke & Houghton Store, Plymouth, Indiana.

1854                Address Unknown, Plymouth, Indiana.                    

1855-1856       Rooms at his residence, North of Edwards’ Hotel, Plymouth, Indiana.

J. E. Armstrong was recorded in five advertisements, eight announcements, and mentioned in one advertisement and one announcement.  The first advertisement ran in the Plymouth Banner  (Plymouth, Indiana) from April 27 to October 5, 1854.  Daguerreotypes.  The subscriber wishes to inform the inhabitants of Plymouth and surrounding country that he has taken Rooms over Brooke & Houghton’s store, where he is now ready to take Daguerrean Likenesses in a good and approved style, and engages to do that which will be satisfactory to those who wish to obtain so important a relic of their friends or themselves.  J. E. Armstrong.   

The first announcement appeared in the Plymouth Banner (Plymouth, Indiana) on April 27, 1854.  Daguerrean Rooms.—Our readers will certainly be gratified to learn that we have permanently located amongst us an excellent operator in this beautiful act.  Mr. Armstrong, as will be seen by his advertisement, is now ready to accommodate those who may call upon him in the rooms formerly occupied by the Western Bank, up stairs in the old Plymouth Hotel.  Give him a call.

The second announcement appeared in the Plymouth Banner (Plymouth, Indiana) on August 3, 1854.  A Register of the temperature as kept at the Daguerrean Rooms of J. E. Armstrong in this place, for the present month, to the 30th.

at 1 o’clock p. m.        at 5 o’clk. p. m.

July 24            86.                               87.

        25            83.                               84.

        26            76.                               75.

        27            76.                               77.

        28            79.                               80.

        29            88.                               91.

        30            90.                               95.                  

The third announcement appeared in the Plymouth Banner (Plymouth, Indiana) on August 10, 1854.  A Register of the temperature as kept at the Daguerrean Rooms of J. E. Armstrong in this place, for the present month, to the 5th.

at 1 o’clock p. m.        at 5 o’clk. p. m.

July 31            94.                               96.

Aug. 1             94.                               96.

         2             81.                               81.

         3             76.                               79.

         4             79.                               76.

         5             80.                               81.

The fourth announcement appeared in the Plymouth Banner (Plymouth, Indiana) on August 17, 1854.  A Register of the temperature as kept at the Daguerrean Rooms of J. E. Armstrong in this place, for the present month, to the 13th.

at 1 o’clock p. m.        at 5 o’clk. p. m.

Aug. 7             72.                               72.

         8             75.                               73.

         9             70.                               70.

        10            75.                               79.

        11            79.                               80.

        12            76.                               79.

        13            80.                               79.      

The fifth announcement appeared in the Plymouth Banner (Plymouth, Indiana) on August 24, 1854.  A Register of the temperature as kept at the Daguerrean Rooms of J. E. Armstrong in this place, for the present month, to the 20th.

at 1 o’clock p. m.        at 5 o’clk. p. m.

Aug. 14           81.                               82.

         15           76.                               76.

         16           77.                               75.

         17           76.                               76.

         18           78.                               78.

         19           82.                               83.

         20           83.                               85.      

The sixth announcement appeared in the Plymouth Banner (Plymouth, Indiana) on August 24, 1854.  Removal.—The Daguerrean Rooms of Mr. Armstrong are removed to his residence in Edwards’ new building on Michigan street.  His operation heretofore seem to have given general satisfaction, and our citizens should extend him their patronage.                  

The second advertisement ran from August 24, 1854 to February 15, 1855 in the Plymouth Advertiser (Plymouth, Indiana).  Removal The undersigned having removed his place of operating 80 rods north on the same street, still invites the citizens and country people to call while the opportunity is in their reach, and no pains will be spared to obtain good likenesses.  He promises to give satisfaction to all reasonable expectations.  J. E. Armstrong.    

The seventh announcement appeared in the Plymouth Banner (Plymouth, Indiana) on September 7, 1854.  A Register of the temperature as kept at the Daguerrean Rooms of J. E. Armstrong in this place, for the present month, to the 3d.

at 1 o’clock p. m.        at 5 o’clk. p. m.

Aug. 21           88.                               88.

         22           89.                               89.

         23           92.                               93.

         24           93.                               95.

         25           86.                               88.

         26           87.                               86.

         27           84.                               86.

         28           85.                               85.

         29           92.                               93.                              

         30           95.                               94.

         31           93                                94.

Sept.  1            93.                               94.

          2            94.                               92.

          3            93.                               92.      

The third advertisement ran from January 18 to April 26, 1855 in the Plymouth Banner  (Plymouth, Indiana).  New Attraction.  The subscriber having got his new and large Sky-light ready for operating, notifies the public generally, that he is ready to take likenesses in good style.  J. E. Armstrong.

The fourth advertisement ran from August 9, 1855 to April 24, 1856 in the Plymouth Weekly Banner (Plymouth, Indiana).  J. E. Armstrong, attends to all calls in his line of Daguerreotyping, at his residence north of Edwards’ Hotel.

The announcement that J. E. Armstrong was mentioned in appeared in the Marshall County Democrat  (Plymouth, Indiana) on March 13, 1856.  In another column will be found the advertisement of W. H. Rhodes & Co., Ambrotype Artists.  We have seen specimen pictures taken by this mode, and think they are superior to the Daguerreotype.—Give them a call.  Rooms at J. E. Armstrong’s Daguerrean Gallery.

The advertisement he was mentioned in appeared in the Marshall County Democrat (Plymouth, Indiana) on March 13, 1856.  Ambrotype Likenesses!  The attention of the public is called to the fact that W. H. Rhodes is now occupying the rooms of J. E. Armstrong, in this village, where he is taking Ambrotype Likenesses!

The pictures taken by this method are far superior to the Daguerreotype, in life-like appearance—are on glass, and are perfectly durable.  Full satisfaction guaranteed to all who may favor him with their custom.

Those wanting likenesses will please call immediately, as the Rooms will positively be closed in thirty days, Mr. Armstrong having discontinued the business here.          W. H. Rhodes & Co.                          

The eighth announcement appeared in the Marshall County Democrat (Plymouth, Indiana) on October 16, 1856.  Any person wishing an Ambrotype, Daguerreotype, or Ambrograph, could not do better than to call at the Armstrong Daguerrean Rooms, where they can be accommodated.

The fifth 1856 advertisement ran from November 27 to December 18, 1856 in the Marshall County Democrat (Plymouth, Indiana).  Ambrotypes.  Those having Ambrotypes, taken by W. H. Rhodes & Co., that have failed to be what they were represented, can have them taken again, free of charge, by calling at the Daguerrean Rooms of John E. Armstrong, from the 1st to the 7th of December.  J. E. Armstrong.

J. E. Armstrong (and W. H. Rhodes) is not recorded in other photographic directories

Armstrong & Dunham

Daguerreotypes, , , ,

1854-1855       Rooms over Wooster’s Drug Store, Plymouth, Ohio.

Armstrong & Dunham (Dr. John Armstrong and J. W. Dunham) were recorded in two announcements and four advertisements in the Plymouth Advertiser (Plymouth, Ohio).  The first announcement appeared on July 15, 1854.  Armstrong & Dunham have fitted up the room over Wooster’s Drug Store, for the purpose of Daguerreotyping the faces of just as many people as feel so disposed.  Their room is fitted up very neatly, and in excellent taste.  They have every facility for prosecuting their business successfully, being provided with both side and sky lights.  We have examined specimens of their work, and cheerfully endorse it to our readers.

The first advertisement ran from July 15 to 29, 1854. Daguerreotypes.  Armstrong & Dunham’s new rooms, (over Wooster’s Drug Store,) are now open for the reception of the citizens of Plymouth and the vicinity.  This firm feels confident in saying that there are none better prepared or more capable to give satisfaction in the taking life-like likenesses than they are.  They have procured all the modern improvements in the art, and have finished a room in the best manner, in order that they may not be excelled by any in the country.  All they ask is a trial, and they will give the fullest satisfaction, or no charge will be made.  Children that are old enough to keep still five seconds, can be taken.  Miniatures inserted in pins, lockets, &c.  Pictures taken of deceased persons before burial.

Ladies and Gentlemen are invited to call.  Prices very moderate.                                        

The second advertisement ran from August 5, 1854 to February 16, 1855. Daguerrean and Dental Room, (Over Wooster’s Drug Store.)  Armstrong & Dunham have fitted up the commodious rooms over Wooster’s Drug Store, in the most superb style, for the purpose of carrying on both Daguerreotyping and Dentistry.  In both branches of the business they will give the fullest satisfaction, or no charge will be made.  They feel confident in saying that they can compete with Cleveland or Sandusky in the execution of their work, and at much less prices.  Call and see us when you come to town.  Plymouth.

The second announcement appeared on September 23, 1854.  We were shown a few days since, a most beautiful specimen of Dental skill, executed by Armstrong & Dunham, of this village.  It was a full set of teeth for the upper jaw, on gold plate, for a lady near Mansfield.  For beautiful workmanship, and natural, life-like appearance, it will compare favorably with anything we have ever seen.  The fact that the most of the work of this kind in this part of the state is done here, speaks well for our Dentist.

The third advertisement ran from February 23 to March 16, 1855.  Daguerrean and Dental Room, (Over Wooster’s Drug Store.)  Armstrong & Dunham have fitted up the commodious rooms over Wooster’s Drug Store, in the most superb style, for the purpose of carrying on both Daguerreotyping and Dentistry.  In both branches of the business they will give the fullest satisfaction, or no charge will be made.  They feel confident in saying that they can compete with Cleveland or Sandusky in the execution of their work, and at much less prices.  Call and see us when you come to town.

Those wishing to get good Daguerreotypes had better be about it.  Dunham leaves this country next April, and if there are those who want him to take their likenesses, they must be in a hurry.  Perfect satisfaction warranted.  Good pictures for a little money.  Come while Dunham is here.  Over Wooster’s Drug Store.

The fourth advertisement ran from March 30 to June 16, 1855.  Daguerrean and Dental Room, (Over Wooster’s Drug Store.)  Armstrong & Dunham have fitted up the commodious rooms over Wooster’s Drug Store, in the most superb style, for the purpose of carrying on both Daguerreotyping and Dentistry.  In both branches of the business they will give the fullest satisfaction, or no charge will be made.  They feel confident in saying that they can compete with Cleveland or Sandusky in the execution of their work, and at much less prices.  Call and see us when you come to town.

Armstrong & Dunham are not recorded in other photographic directories as being active in Plymouth, Ohio.  Craig’s Daguerreian Registry does list a John Armstrong as an Itinerant daguerreian in Ohio without an activity date or location.  It is unknown if they are the same person. 

H. Armington

Daguerreotypes, , , ,

1846                Address, Unknown, Pawtucket, Rhode, Island.[1]

1848                19 Westminster Street, Providence, Rhode Island,[2]

1850                Sagamore Building, near the Central Building, Lynn, Massachusetts.

H. Armington was record in a manuscript letter to Southworth & Hawes on October 13, 1846 and one advertisement.  The Manuscript letter from H. Armington & Co. To Southworth & Hawes formerly in Matthew R. Isenburg Collection.[3] 

Pawtucket Mass. Oct. 13th 1846 Messrs.  Southworth & Hawes, Gents, We have seen in pictures in Providence said to have been taken with “quickstuff” prepared and sold by you, which we liken the appearance of very much.  We wish you to send us a bottle of the same with the directions necessary for using it.  If we could produce the same results with it as those we saw in Providence should like to make use of it altogether,

Please write us your lowest price for Scovilles No. 1 Medium Plates.  Also cheapest Medium satin cases also Velvet good articles.

Yours Respectfully, H. Armington & Co.

The advertisement was recorded on April 26, 1850 in the Lynn News (Lynn, Massachusetts).

Daguerreotype Gallery, In The Sagamore Building, near the Central Building, Lynn.  J. H. Currier, Daguerrian Artists, having procured of his late partner, Mr. Armington, his large German Instrument, is now prepared to execute Miniatures of all styles, in groups or single, on small or the largest sized plates that are used.

As a most certain guarantee that he will satisfy his customers, he invites a scrutinizing examination of his specimens, and a trial of his skill by patronage, as he warrants his pictures to be satisfactory, and unexcelled at any other gallery in the country—his customers and their friends being the judges.  Lynn, February 1, 1850.

H. Armington is recorded in other photographic directories in 1846 and 1848, but not in 1850.

[1] A Directory Of Massachusetts Photographers 1839-1900.

[2] Craigs Daguerreian Registry.  In partnership as Baker (Elisha W.) & Armstrong.

[3] Letter sent from Pawtucket, Rhode Island.