1853 Over Merriman’s Store, Jackson, Michigan.
1853 May 18. Jackson Citizen. (Jackson, Michigan.) May 18, 1853, Vol. IV, No. 38, P. 2.
Mr. M. Finlay[1], a veteran Daguerreian Artist over fourteen years experience, has associated himself with Cookingham, for the furnishing of our town’s people with a little the best looking lot of pictures ever taken here. Drop in and take a sit.
[1] Possibly Marshall Finley.
1859 Address Unknown,Medina, New York.
1859 September 22. The Medina Tribune. (Medina, New York.) September 22, 1859, Vol. VIII, No. 4, P.1.
Union Agricultural Society of Ridgeway And Shelby. Second Annual Fair held at Medina, N. Y., on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, Sept 14, 15 & 16, 1859..
List of Entries….Class VII.—Miscellaneous…
S. Downs, specimens Ambrotypes and daguerreotypes.
S. Downs, daguerrean wagon.
F. H. Finch[1], specimens of ambrotypes & daguerreotypes.
E. R. Graves, specimens ambrotypes; colored photographs.
Henry Pruden, specimens ambrotypes.
Geo. P. Hopkins, specimens photographs; family sewing machine, “Scovill & Goodell
1859 September 22. The Medina Tribune. (Medina, New York.) September 22, 1859, Vol. VIII, No. 4, P.2.
Union Agricultural Society of Ridgeway And Shelby. Second Annual Fair held at Medina, N. Y., on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, Sept 14, 15 & 16, 1859..
Premiums Awarded…Class VII. No. 57—Dentistry, Daguerreotypes, &c.…
Best specimens daguerreotypes, S. Downs, $1.
Best Specimens ambrotypes, H. Pruden, $1.
[1] Craig’s Daguerreian Registry, list a E. Finch as a daguerreian in 1859 at Medina, New York.
1854-1856 3d and Jefferson streets, Burlington, Iowa.
1854 September 19. Burlington Tri-Weekly Hawk-Eye. (Burlington, Iowa.) September 19, 1854, Vol. 1, No. 129, P. 3.
Daguerreotypes. The undersign would respectfully inform the citizens of Burlington and surrounding country, that he has fitted up a large and Magnificent Room, at his old stand, over Swan’s Store, opposite the Barret House, where he is prepared to execute Daguerreotyping in the finest artistic style. And as he intends remaining here permanently, you can always depend upon having a fine and correct likeness; and as his facilities for taking likenesses are much better than heretofore he offers to give As Good And Cheaper Pictures than ever before put up in the city of Burlington.
No picture will be allowed to leave my rooms unless perfect satisfaction is given.
Instructions given in the Art with all the late improvements.
Entrance to Rooms on Third street, William Fields. Feb28 ’54.
Advertisement was recorded twenty three times between September 19 to December 2, 1854.
1855 June 4. Burlington Tri-Weekly Hawke-eye. (Burlington, Iowa.) June 4, 1855, Third Year—Vol. 1, No. 89, P. 3.
“Now by Saint Paul the work goes bravely on,
The times call for action.”
And Fields responds by respectfully informing the citizens of Burlington and surrounding country, that he has just received a large assortment of plain and fancy Daguerreotype Cases, at his rooms, corner of 3d and Jefferson streets, opposite the Barret House, where all those wishing a fine and correct Likeness of Themselves or friends will do well to give him a call.
Pictures taken the Low!! Price of $1.50 to $15 apiece. Satisfaction given or no charges made.
Stock for sale at very low prices and apparatus furnished. All orders promptly attended to. Wm. Fields.
Advertisement was recorded four times between June 4 to 25, 1855.
1855 July 4. Weekly Hawke-Eye and Telegraph. (Burlington, Iowa.) July 4, 1855, Sixteenth Year—Vol. 1, No. 31, P. 3.
“Now by Saint Paul the work goes bravely on,
The times call for action.”
And Fields responds by respectfully informing the citizens of Burlington and surrounding country, that he has just received a large assortment of plain and fancy Daguerreotype Cases, at his rooms, corner of 3d and Jefferson streets, opposite the Barret House, where all those wishing a fine and correct Likeness of Themselves or friends will do well to give him a call.
Pictures taken the Low!! Price of $1.50 to $15 apiece. Satisfaction given or no charges made.
Stock for sale at very low prices and apparatus furnished. All orders promptly attended to. Wm. Fields.
Advertisement was recorded fourteen times between July 4 to October 24, 1855.
1855 September 12. Hawk-Eye and Iowa Patriot. (Burlington, Iowa.) September 12, 1855, 16th Year, Vol. 1, No. 44, P. 3.
“Now by Saint Paul the work goes bravely on,
The times call for action.”
And Fields responds by respectfully informing the citizens of Burlington and surrounding country, that he has just received a large assortment of plain and fancy Daguerreotype Cases, at his rooms, corner of 3d and Jefferson streets, opposite the Barret House, where all those wishing a fine and correct Likeness of Themselves or friends will do well to give him a call.
Pictures taken the Low!! Price of $1.50 to $15 apiece. Satisfaction given or no charges made.
Stock for sale at very low prices and apparatus furnished. All orders promptly attended to. June 4, 1855. Wm. Fields.
1855 October 31. Weekly Hawke-Eye and Telegraph. (Burlington, Iowa.) October 31, 1855, Sixteenth Year—Vol. 1, No. 51, P. 1.
Something New.—We have seen some very fine pictures, taken by Mr. Bowers, at the Daguerrean room of Mr. Fields, by a new process which we believe has been patented. They far exceed in beauty, and life like expression, any exhibition of the daguerrean art we ever saw. Those who are fond of seeing fine pictures will find themselves repayed by inspecting Mr. Bowers pictures.
1855 October 31. Weekly Hawke-Eye and Telegraph. (Burlington, Iowa.) October 31, 1855, Sixteenth Year—Vol. 1, No. 51, P. 3.
Something New. Ambrotypes or Daguerreotypes in Glass. The subscriber would respectfully announce to the citizens of Burlington that he will remain for a few weeks at the Daguerrean Rooms of Mr. Fields, opposite the Barret House, for the purpose of taking the above new and beautiful style of pictures.
The term Ambrotype, by which these pictures are designated is derived from the Greek word Ambrotos, signifying durability, everlasting, &c. The picture is taken upon plate glass, over which is placed a corresponding glass, the two being united by an indestructible gum, enabling the picture to retain its brilliancy for ages. It will not corrode at sea nor change in any climate, is beautiful in tone, bold and clear in its effect, and may be seen in any light.
The Ambrotype is patented in the United States, Great Britain and France, by James A. Cutting, of Boston.
The subscriber owns the exclusive right for the sale of these pictures in the State of Iowa, and is prepared to sell for towns and counties, and learn the art to those who buy rights.
He will remain only a few week, therefore now is the time to obtain one of these fine pictures.
The public are invited to call and see specimens. W. T. Bowers.
Advertisement ran from October 31 to November 21, 1855.
1855 November 28. Weekly Hawke-Eye and Telegraph. (Burlington, Iowa.) November 28, 1855, Seventeenth Year—Vol. 2, No. 2, P. 3.
A Card.—Having sold the exclusive right for making Ambrotypes in the city of Burlington to Mr. Fields, I take pleasure in recommending him to the patronage of the public. Ambrotypes are by far, the finest pictures made at present time, and as Mr. Fields, has the exclusive right for making them in this city, they cannot be obtained of any other person. Mr. Fields now has a very fine light, and every facility for making fine pictures. His rooms are on Jefferson, between third and fourth streets. W. T. Brown. (sic.)
1856 June 25. Weekly Hawke-Eye and Telegraph. (Burlington, Iowa.) June 25, 1856, Seventeenth Year—Vol. 2, No. 33, P. 3.
Gaige & Fields. Photograph, Ambrotype and Daguerreotype Gallery, over Cristvell & Hillhouse Store, Jefferson Street, Burlington. Mr. Fields has the pleasure of announcing that he has associated with him, Mr. Gaige, for six years an operator in Brady’s celebrated Gallery, New York. He therefore ventures to promise his customers Photographs, Ambrotypes and Daguerreotypes, in the highest style of the art, with all recent improvements which have brought the art so near a state of perfection.
He is confident the specimens on exhibition at his rooms—and all are cordially invited to examine them—will bear a comparison with the finest pictures from the best New York Galleries, or from any other point, no matter where. And as he does not wish the public to take this on trust, he hopes they will come and see.
Daguerreotypes of deceased persons copied to any desired size and colored to equal the finest oil paintings. Likenesses of deceased persons also taken.
Remember the place, Jefferson st., between Third and Fourth, opposite Barret House.
Advertisement was recorded nineteen times between June 25 to November 5, 1856.
1856-1857 477 Broadway, New York, New York.
1856 October 31. The New York Herald. (New York, New York.) October 31, 1856, Whole No. 7367, P. 5.
Knapp’s Colored Improved Durable Ambrotypes and daguerreotypes, 50 cents, including case, twice the size others give for the money, at the only Knapp’s gallery in the city, 477 Broadway, near Wallack’s theatre. Everybody gets them. Knapp & Fields.
1856 December 13. The New York Herald. (New York, New York.) December 13, 1856, Whole No. 7410, P. 5.
Knapp’s only Gallery of Ambrotypes, Daguerreotypes and Melainotypes, 477 Broadway. J. B. Fields, Proprietor.
1857. New York City Directory. (New York, New York.) 1857-1858, Published by John Fowler Trow.[1]
Daguerreotypes, 477 Broadway, h—J. C. (Jersey City, New Jersey.)
[1] Not listed in the 1855, 1856 or 1858 direcories.
1856 281 Main Street, Hartford, Connecticut.
1859 281 Main Street, Hartford, Connecticut.
1856 June 7. The Connecticut Courant. (Hartford, Connecticut.) June 7, 1856, Vol. XCIII, No. 4768, P. 3.
Ferre’s Daguerreian Rooms—281 (late 156½) Main Street, Corner of Pearl.—Daguerreotypes, Photographs or Ambrotypes; Improved Ambrotypes, colored or plain; Lampratypes, Stereoscopes, and Crayon Likenesses. Also, Pearl Ambrotypes, designed for taking Children, only one second of time required; this is the only Gallery where they can be procured. These are the oldest Rooms in the place, and only up two flights of stairs. The Light used at this Saloon is a most beautiful North and Sky-light combined, and there is only one other of the kind in the State. The superiority of this over any other light ever erected for the business, is conceded by all artists who have seen it. This Light is especially designed for taking large Family Groups, as also Miniatures for Lockets, Pins, Rings, &c. Prices are low as any other first class Gallery. Perfect satisfaction given or no charge. N. B.—None but the most experienced workmen employed. Your patronage is respectfully solicited. J. Clifford Ferre.
Advertisement ran from June 7 to July 5, 1856.
1859 March 26. The Connecticut Courant. (Hartford, Connecticut.) March 26, 1859, Vol. XCVI, No. 4914, P. 3.
“Of those for whom we fond emotions cherish,
Secure the shadow ere the substance perish.”
Ferre’s Photograph, Ambrotype And Daguerreotype Rooms. 281 Main st., corner of Pearl, is the only first class Gallery where good pictures can be obtained at a moderate price.
Please call , examine specimens, compare prices and you will be convinced of the truth of our statement. J. Clifford Ferre.
P. S.—Rooms closed on the Sabbath.
Advertisement ran from March 26 to April 16, 1859.
1853 Rooms over the Post Office, Barre, Massachusetts.
1853 August 5. The Barre Patriot. (Barre, Massachusetts.) August 5, 1853, Vol. X, No. 4, P. 2.
Daguerreotypes. Mr. Welcome Felton of this town, is prepared to wait upon all who wish to have their picture taken, at his rooms. See advertisement.
1853 August 5. The Barre Patriot. (Barre, Massachusetts.) August 5, 1853, Vol. X, No. 4, P. 3.
Look out for Counterfeits! Executed with all the late improvements in the Art, at Felton’s Daguerreian Gallery Rooms over the Post Office.
Advertisement ran from August 5 to 26, 1853.
1853 September 9. The Barre Patriot. (Barre, Massachusetts.) September 9, 1853, Vol. X, No. 9, P. 3.
Counterfeits Still! At Felton’s Daguerrean Rooms, For a short time longer, executed with a truthfulness and exactness Astonishing to the most Unbelieving!
Pictures put up in every variety of style. A nice assortment oc cases constantly on hand. Please call and see for yourself.
Daguerreotypes for 75 cts., case included. Rooms Over The Post Office,
Advertisement ran on September 9 to 16, 1853.
1853 September 30. The Barre Patriot. (Barre, Massachusetts.) September 30, 1853, Vol. X, No. 12, P. 3.
Daguerreotypes For 50 cents! For a few days only, At Felton’s Daguerrean Rooms, Over The Post Office. Sept. 23, 1853.
Advertisement was recorded on September 30 to October 7, 1853.
1851-1855 Corner Bank and Superior Streets, opposite Weddell House, Cleveland, Ohio.
1852 Corner of Superior and Seneca Streets, Sartwell’s Block, Cleveland, Ohio.
1851 April 9. Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) April 9, 1851, Vol. 7, No. 8, P. 2.
Cleveland Daguerreotype Stock Depot. Johnson & Fellows, Daguerrean Artist. Keep constantly on hand a full assortment of every variety of materials for Daguerreotypists’ Use, which they are selling as low as can be bought in New York City.
The attention of Artists is respectfully invited to their elegant and large assortment of Cameras, Plates, Cases, Chemicals, &c., Cc. all of which they test before offering for sale, and warrant genuine. Having had long experience in the business they supply themselves with such stock, only, as Artists require.
Instruction in the art carefully given.
Rooms on the corner of Bank and Superior-st. opposite the Wendell House, Cleveland, Ohio. Chas. E. Johnson. Parker Fellows
Advertisement ran from April 9 to July 17, 1851.
Daguerreotypes.—Messrs. Johnson & Fellows, Daguerreotypist, have recently procured the services of Mr. J. F. Ryder, late of New York—a very skilful operator. We yesterday examined several specimens of his work, and we have rarely if ever seen their equals. They are sufficiently distinct without being harsh in their outline, and excel particularly in life-like expressions. Call at their rooms and look at their portrait gallery.
1851 July 21. Portage Sentinel. (Ravenna, Ohio.) July 21, 1851, Vol. 7, No. 8, Whole No. 320, P. 3.
Read And Consider! Matthews having made arrangements with Johnson & Fellows, of Cleveland, to enter their employment for a certain length of time, has disposed of his entire interest in the Daguerrian Business, To B. S. Morrill & Co., and according to an agreement with them will make no more Pictures in this County, and would most cheerfully recommend all those wanting Perfect Specimens of the Art to patronize them; fully knowing their knowledge of the business equal to any other artist in the east or west, your humble servant not excepted.
Wm. B. Matthews. Ravenna, July 14, 1851.
Advertisement ran from July 21 to August 4, 1851.
1851 December 22. Cleveland Daily Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) December 22, 1851, Vol. 7, No. 225, P. 2.
Fire. A fire was discovered Sunday at 10½ A. M., in the Rooms of Johnson & Fellows, Daguerreotypist, Merchants’ Bank Block. It originated from the stove, burned through the floor, and rapidly spread between the floor and ceiling below, nearly the whole length of the building. It was considerable time after the engines were on the ground that the precise location of the fire could be ascertained, owing to the dense smoke. Nearly all the furniture and apparatus of Johnson & Fellows were more or less damaged by fire and water. Precise loss not known. The offices of C. Stetson, Esq., Dr. Bigelow and Dr. Robinson, were considerably injured by water. Cutter & Taylor suffered quite a loss from the same cause.
We understand that Johnson & Fellows [are] insured for $1,200.
1851 December 22. Cleveland Daily Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) December 22, 1851, Vol. 7, No. 225, P. 2.
We also return our sincere thanks to the Firemen and our friends, whose efficiency and care saved much of our property in yesterdays conflagration. Prudence, care and judgement, characterized every movement on their part, and to them we owe every thing. At present, we can only say that we are very grateful. But at some future period, we will endeavor to express our thanks by deeds as well as words.
We would also state that we shall be fully prepared on Wednesday morning to take Miniatures as well and as rapidly as ever. Our Rooms, by that time, will be in through repair, and we should be glade to see all who may feel inclined to give us their patronage. Johnson & Fellows.
Messrs. Johnson & Fellows are not to be burned or drowned out. They will resume labors to-morrow. Such pluck and enterprise deserves patronage.
1852 January 7. Morning Daily True Democrat. (Cleveland, Ohio.) January 7, 1852, Vol. 6, No. 5, P. 3.
Johnson & Fellows, Premium Skylight Daguerreotype Rooms, Over Merchants’ Bank, opposite the Weddell House. Also, Sartwell’s Block, corner of Superior and Seneca Streets.
1852 January 7. Morning Daily True Democrat. (Cleveland, Ohio.) January 7, 1852, Vol. 6, No. 5, P. 3.
Cleveland Daguerreotype Stock Depot. Johnson & Fellows, Daguerrean Artists, keep constantly on hand a full assortment of every variety of materials for Daguerreotypist use, which they are selling as low as can be bought in New York City.
The attention of Artists is respectfully invited to their elegant and large assortment of Cameras, Plates, Cases, Chemicals, &c., &c., all of which they tested before offering for sale, and warranted genuine. Having had long experience in the business, they supply themselves with such stock only as Artists require.
Instructions in the art carefully given. Charles E. Johnson, Parker Fellows
Rooms, Superior Street, opposite Weddell House, Cleveland, Ohio. apr8.
Advertisement ran from January 7 to
Premium Daguerreotypes. Johnson & Fellows, at their Rooms corner Bank and Superior sts., opposite the Weddell House, are still taking miniatures in the highest style of the art. Mr. Johnson is universally acknowledged one of the most eminent artists in the United States. His pictures have for two successive years taken the first premiums at the American Institute, New York; Franklin do. Philadelphia; Mechanics’ do. Boston.
They are taking, in addition to the old style, the celebrated Illuminated Daguerreotypes, which are considered far superior to any others. The Daguerrean Journal in speaking of them says “they somewhat resemble the Crayon, yet surpass them in beauty.” They have the largest and finest operating Room with skylight in the State, and the best whole size Camera ever manufactured in the country. Their Cameras were judged the best at the World’s Fair. Every variety of Cases, Frames and Lockets can be found at their Rooms. Dec. 22, 1851.
1852 January 21. Morning Daily True Democrat. (Cleveland, Ohio.) January 21, 1852, Vol. 6, No. 16, P. 2.
$5 Reward—We will give the above reward to any one who will inform us of the person or persons who broke the shutters and large pain of glass in our showcase on the sidewalk, on Saturday or Sunday night last. Johnson & Fellow.
1852 May 20. Cleveland Daily Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) May 20, 1852, Vol. VIII, No. 43, P. 3.
Daguerreotypes. Only One Dollar Each!! Now is the time to get a first class Miniature put up in good style for One Dollar. We pledge ourselves to execute better work than can be obtained at any other place in this city for that price. Perfect satisfaction warranted. Let none hereafter employ inferior Artists from motives of economy.
Remember the old establishment, rooms over the Merchants Bank, opposite Weddell House, corner of Bank and Superior-sts. Johnson & Fellows.
N. B.—We use both side and sky lights—the most perfect arrangement in this city.
1852 September 22. Cleveland Weekly Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) September 22, 1852, Vol. XI, No. 38, P. 3.
List of Entries At The State Fair…
Class H.—Domestic Manufactures…
A. C. Partridge, Wheeling, Va., daguerreotypes.
Mrs. Short, Cleveland, daguerreotypes.
Johnson & Fellows, Cleveland, daguerreotypes.
1852 September 22. The Daily Ohio Statesman. (Columbus, Ohio.) September 22, 1852, Vol. II, No. 1460, New Series No. 1921, P. 2.
Third Annual Ohio State Fair. We continue from the Cleveland Herald the following notices of the Ohio State Fair:
Daguerreotypes. The improvement in the display of specimens in this beautiful Art over previous State Fairs is striking both as to the number of competitors and elegance and perfectness of the pictures. A portion of the Floral Hall has been fitted up expressly for this Art, and as constantly crowded with admiring visitors…
Next are the choice specimens of Messrs. Johnson & Fellows of Cleveland, consisting of six splendid views of Niagara Falls, the Painesville Railroad Bridge, and two miniatures, one that almost preaches right out, of Rev. Dr. Perry. The views of Niagara are greatly admired, and finely illustrated the perfection and instantaneousness of sun-painting. The views consist of Table Rock—Clifton House from Prospect Point—view of both Falls with private party on the brink—American Falls from Canada Ferry landing, with small boat crossing with passengers, the countenance of the boatman pulling at the oar so perfect as to be recognized by acquaintances—Horse-shoe Falls from Canada landing—and the Bridge and Rapids above the American Falls—the dashing waters so instantly transferred to the plate as to present a natural waving and curling appearance. The series is very creditable to the skill of the old and well known artists…
1852 September 23. Scott Soup Bowl. (Cleveland, Ohio.) September 23, 1852, Vol. 1, No. 12, P. 1.
The State Fair…Class II—Domestic Manufacturers…
W. C. North, Cleveland, specimens Daguerreotypes.
A. Bisbee, Dayton, specimen daguerreotypes.
Class II.
Johnson & Fellow, Cleveland—Daguerreotypes.
McDonald & Co., Buffalo—Daguerreotypes.
A. C. Partridge, Wheeling—Daguerreotypes.
S. Root, New York—14 Daguerreotypes.
Mrs. Short, Cleveland—Specimens daguerreotypes.
1852 September 23. Scott Soup Bowl. (Cleveland, Ohio.) September 23, 1852, Vol. 1, No. 12, P. 4.
Notes of the State Fair. We shall make such specific notice of the articles exhibited at the State Fair as time and circumstances permit, and if any exhibitors are neglected, as probably will be in the multitudes assembled, if will not be for lack of good intention. We should be glad to deal fairly by all. We begin with…
Daguerreotypes.
The improvement in the display of specimens in this beautiful of specimens in this beautiful Art over previous State Fairs is striking both as to number of competitors and elegance and perfectness of the pictures A [portion of ] Floral Hall has been fitted up expressly for this Art, and is constantly crowded with admiring visitors.
Entering from the West, Mrs. Short, of Cleveland, has a pretty group of miniatures, two of them old settlers whose well-known countenances often [ ? ] sunshine on the poor and suffering…
Next are the choice specimens of Messrs. Johnson & Fellows, of Cleveland consisting of six splendid views of Niagara Falls, the Painesville Rail Road Bridge, and two miniatures, on that almost preaches right out, Rev. Dr. Perry.—The views of Niagara are greatly admired, and finely illustrate the perfection and instantaneousness of sun-painting. The views consist of Table Rock—Clifton House from Prospect Point—view of both Falls with –private party on the brink—American Falls from Canada Ferry landing, with small boat crossing with passengers, the countenance of the boatman pulling at the oar so perfect [as] to be recognized by acquaintances—Horse Shoe Falls from Canada Landing—And the Bridge and Rapids from Canada Landing—and the Bridge and Rapids above the American Falls—the dashing waters so instantly transferred to the plate as to present a natural waving and curling appearance! The series is very creditable to the skill of the old and well-known artists.
Mr. North, another Cleveland artist who took the first premium at last year’s State Fair, has filled a large space close at hand with his truly splendid pictures and life-like miniatures. His views of the Weddell, Melodeon, new Jail, &c., are realities, and his groups and single miniatures, many of them well known personages, attract-much attention. One feature, The Editorial corps of the city, including a full length of Lippard in Brotherhood regalia, and Mrs. Gage, the story-teller and poetess, from a” home-picture” good looking of course. The portraits are all perfect—would we could say as much of some of the originals! Little “Zack,” to our eye the gem of North’s collection, is generally mistaken for the “Infant Drummer,” and quite naturally in the absence of a label. There is an air of ease and rest after a boyish rub-a-dub both in countenance and position, rarely obtained in daguerreotypes even of children of larger growth.” North has good reason to be proud of his skill as well as of the Art to which he is devoted…
Next o North’s, is a collection of magnificent Daguerreotypes from Root’s Premium Gallery, New York. Three of the portraits are unusually large and fine. Among the notables miniatured are Madame Alboni, Horace Greeley, Geo. M. Dallas, and P. T. Barnum, the picture no humbug at least. Our Western Artists will have to look out for their laurels. In a homely frontier phrase, it is now “Root hog or die!” for premiums.
The Old Dominion is also in the field with pictures “ardent as a Southern Sun can make them.” Mr. Partridge, of Wheeling, has a numerous a fine display of pictures and miniatures; ranged by the side of New York. He has beautiful views of Zane’s Island in the Ohio, and the Wheeling Suspension Bridge, the span 1010 feet. It is a spider’s web in mid-air, the most delicate tracery being limned in beauty by the unerring light. Rev. Dr. Campbell, Dr. Valentine, and a host of the lesser known are submitted to the admiration of thousands. A group of a hundred or more little Misses on a single plate, all standing in compact order, is a sweet picture Old Sol must have been delighted in taking.
A. Bisbee, of Dayton, has filled nearly a whole side with his grand collection. He has a fine, large size picture of Dayton Court House, the best edifice of the kind in Ohio, the Phillips House and other Dayton views. His view of Cincinnati from Newport, is the great Daguerreotype picture of the exhibition. It presents a plate richly framed, about 8 feet long by 10 or 12 inches wide, and gives a river view of the city and hills several miles in length! The panorama is of course faithful to nature, and is a wonderful triumph of the Art. Mr. B.’s miniatures, single and in groups, are very attractive.
Last, but not least, are a group of three ladies and two other miniatures of large size, by McDonnell & Co., of Buffalo. It would be difficult to select three more pleasing or meritorious pictures from the entire collection. Everybody stops to admire them, a sufficient meed of praise, unless it be the first approval of the committee.
1852 December 24. Morning Daily True Democrat. (Cleveland, Ohio.) December 24, 1852, Vol. 6, No. 304, P. 3.
Johnson & Fellows.—These artist have now a fine suit of rooms at the corner of Bank and Superior streets, and are prepared to take the best of pictures.—They have a large and beautiful stock of cases for Christmas, and we advise those who wish to procure a good likeness either of themselves or others, to go to Johnson & Fellows. The excellence of their work merits great praise, and the cheapness ought to ensure good success, which we heartily wish the above firm.
1853 June 7. Cleveland Weekly Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) June 7, 1853, Vol. IX, No. 56, P. 2.
Speaking of Daguerreotypes, we saw to-day in the possession of Johnson & Fellows, a crystal covered picture, the plate of which was not convex, but flat as in the common daguerreotype. It appears in very particular a perfect portrait, and a good picture. Mr. Fellows informs us that this style of putting up daguerreotypes is no new thing, but has often be used in other places. There seems to be a slight controversy on this subject between certain parties. The convex plate vs the level plate. Both make very good pictures, but we shall decide when daguerreotypist disagree!
1853 June 8. Cleveland Weekly Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) June 8, 1853, Vol. IX, No. 57, P. 2.
Daguerreotypes. If you want a fine likeness, get one put up in Johnson & Fellows’ inimitable style. If you want a paperweight, get one with your likeness in it. Their Stereoscopes are the greatest wonder in the city.
1853 June 9. Cleveland Weekly Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) June 9, 1853, Vol. IX, No. 58, P. 2.
[Advertisement.] Dear Dealer:—I saw in your paper of Tuesday evening, a statement, (Mr. Fellows being your authority) that my Crystal Daguerreotypes setting is “no new thing, but has been used in other places” I deny the truth of the statement, and ask when and where? If it is no “new thing” why did Mr. Fellows, after hearing that I had set a daguerreotype in this style, go to several stores in town to procure a glass, which he obtained on Monday of this week (several days after I had applied for a patent) and putting his likenesses in the same, spent most of the afternoon in visiting hotels, stores, and stopping his friends in the street, showing his picture thus set! He acted as though he thought or that others would think, that it was “something new.” As it regards the flat or convex plate I would state that the first picture that I set in this style was on a flat plate. The convex plate is a decided improvement, making the picture more distinct and luminous. I claim in my patent both the level and convex plate. Since writing the above, I saw the following advertisement in the [Daily] Forest City of Tuesday morning, headed thus: “‘A Novelty’.—Get a Paper Weight Daguerreotype of yourself or friend. Just the thing for a writing desk. Johnson & Fellows get them up in a beautiful style.” To be consistent, he should have said “no new thing” I say, let every man manufacture his own “thunder.” W. C. North
1853 June 28. Cleveland Weekly Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) June 28, 1853, Vol. IX, No. 74, P. 2.
[For the Plain Dealer.] Editors of Plain Dealer: I have just returned from New York, and find that during my absence, my neighbor, Mr. Fellows, (Not Johnson & Fellows, as Mr. Johnson is in California, and can have no part in this matter,) has been given me some sage advice, wishing me not to “set such a belligerent example.” He also begs of me to “fight” some one elce, and “not quite annihilate” him. You and your readers will bear me witness that I have done nothing more than ward off the blows which his “belligerent” disposition led him to aim at me for my “annihilation.” I told you in all truth and honesty that I had discovered a new setting for Daguerreotypes. Mr. Fellows denied the truth of my statement, by saying, “that this style of putting up Daguerreotypes is no new thing, but has often be used in other places.” Now, if Mr. Fellows had attended to his own business, and not denied what I know to be true, (and what he can’t prove to be false.) I should not have said the first nor the “last word” in this controversy. I would simply add that I expect to exhibit this new style of Daguerreotype at the World’s Fair in New York, and am prepared also to furnish then to my patrons, and invite all who wish to to call and see them. W. C. North.
1853 August 13. Daily Forest City. (Cleveland, Ohio.) August 13, 1853, Vol. 2, Np. 95, P. 3.
A Novelty. Get a Paper Weight Daguerreotype of yourself or friend. Just the thing for a writing desk.
Johnson & Fellows get them up in a beautiful style. je7.
1853 August 13. Daily Forest City. (Cleveland, Ohio.) August 13, 1853, Vol. 2, Np. 95, P. 3.
Stereoscopes; Or Solid Daguerreotypes. These Daguerreotypes are taken in fine style by Johnson & Fellows. They have the appearance of Statuary—the greatest improvement in the Daguerreotype art. je8.
1853 September 2. Cleveland Weekly Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) September 2, 1853, Vol. IX, No. 131, P. 2.
Home Again. Mr. Fellows has just returned from New York with an entire new assortment of every thing new pertaining to the Daguerrean Art. We have a fine assortment of Lockets, which we offer upon reasonable terms. Please call and see.
1853 October 11. Cleveland Weekly Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) October 11, 1853, Vol. IX, No. 164, P. 2.
Miniatures. One of the best places in the west to secure a perfect likeness is at the well known Rooms of Johnson & Fellows, (over Merchant’s Bank.) They now offer to the public a better assortment of Cases and Lockets than were ever before offered in this city. Go and see them.
1853 November 10. Cleveland Weekly Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) November 10, 1853, Vol. IX, No. 190, P. 2.
Wanted to see a nice cottage, well arranged, every thing convenient. House and grounds in the best order. Enquire of Mr. Fellows, at Johnson & Fellows’ Daguerrean Rooms,
1853 December 22. Cleveland Weekly Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) December 22, 1853, Vol. IX, No. 226, P. 2.
Holiday Presents. Nothing cab be more appropriate for a Holiday Present than one of Johnson & Fellows’ Daguerreotypes, done up in fine style. They have a large assortment of fancy cases and elegant lockets.
1853 December 23. Cleveland Weekly Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) December 23, 1853, Vol. IX, No. 227, P. 3.
Where to get Christmas Presents…
Johnson & Fellows, Mrs. Short, and North. Are all prepared to take daguerreotypes. What prettier gift than semblance of a loved one?
1854 January 7. Cleveland Weekly Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) January 7, 1854, Vol. IX, No. 240, P. 3.
Daguerreotypes.—Since the opening of our Rooms in this city, nearly six years since, there never has been a season in which we have met with such good success as we have in the year just closed, For the steady increase in our business, we thank the citizens of Cleveland. Having secured the assistance of good artists, we shall now be better prepared than ever to accommodate all who favor us with a call. The quality of our work heretofore will be the guarantee of its continuance. Johnson & Fellows.
1854 May 31. Cleveland Weekly Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) May 31, 1854, Vol. X, No. 52, P. 3.
A Card—New Daguerreotype Arrangement.—The late firm of Johnson & Fellows will be hereafter known as Ryder & Fellows. Mr. Ryder of the new firm is a vetean in the art, so with our present strength and advantages we are better prepared than ever to suit our Customers. With the oldest establishment and best arranged rooms in the City, and every facility for executing superior miniatures, we respectfully tender our services to the public. Ryder & Fellows.
1854 December 2. Cleveland Weekly Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) December 2, 1854, Vol. X, No. 207, P. 3.
Holiday Gifts.—Ryder & Fellows are prepared to furnish the most suitable and appropriate presents for Christmas and New Years. Now is the time. Supply yourselves before you forget it. Rooms in Merchants’ Bank Building.
1855 May 2. Cleveland Weekly Plain Dealer. (Cleveland, Ohio.) May 2, 1855, Vol. XI, No. 45, P. 3.
Ryder’s Daguerreotype Rooms, In The Merchants’ Bank Building, corner of Superior and Banks—sts., are the oldest establishment and the best in the city. A most successful business of eight years is the result of the very superior Miniatures produced at this establishment. Its patrons may depend upon being promptly and faithfully served. J. F. Ryder, (late Ryder & Fellows.)
Note–Todate Ohio Newspapers have not been thoroughly checked. I have done a quick check for Parker Fellows, Johnson & Fellows and Ryder & Fellows in the Cleveland newspapers to fill in some of the gaps, but advertisements were not checked to see have long they ran.
1858-1860 Court Street, over Swallow’s Store, Pomeroy, Ohio.
1860 Corner Court and Front Streets, Cartwright’s new building, Pomeroy, Ohio.
1865-1866 Court Street, two doors above Post Office, Pomeroy, Ohio.
1858 October 26. Meigs County Telegraph. (Pomeroy, Ohio.) October 26, 1858, New Series Vol. 1, No. 43, Whole No. 554, P. 3.
Mr. E. Feiger has bought out the Daguerrean Gallery in Swallow’s building, on Court street, and proposes taking pictures of all kinds as cheap and good as has before been taken in this place. See advertisement.
1858 October 26. Meigs County Telegraph. (Pomeroy, Ohio.) October 26, 1858, New Series Vol. 1, No. 43, Whole No. 554, P. 2.
Fine Pictures. I am now prepared to take all kinds of Pictures, in as good style as have been taken before in this place. All styles of Ambrotypes, Melanotypes, and Daguerreotypes from 50 cts. up. Also, Leather pictures for sending in letters. Pictures inserted in Breast Pins and Lockets. Room over Swallow’s Store, entrance on Court street, one door below O. Branch’s Store. I warrant all my Pictures. Give me a call and see for yourselves. I shal remain here but a short time. Ernest Feiger.
Advertisement ran from October 26 to November 9, 1858.
1859 March 1. Meigs County Telegraph. (Pomeroy, Ohio.) March 1, 1859, New Series Vol. 2, No. 9, Whole No. 860, P. 3.
Mr. Ernest Feiger is about to leave Pomeroy for some time, and as he is the only artist we have in town, it is necessary that you supply yourself soon with whatever you desire in his line. See Card.
1859 March 1. Meigs County Telegraph. (Pomeroy, Ohio.) March 1, 1859, New Series Vol. 2, No. 9, Whole No. 860, P. 2.
The Last Chance To obtain a Picture is now at hand. The undersigned is soon to take a tour through the country, and will not return for some time. Therefore, this being the only gallery in town and my Pictures being of as good execution as can be gotten up, it is to every one’s interest to call soon who need anything in my line Remember the place—in Swallow’s Building, on Court Street, one door from O. Branch & Co.’s. Store, Pomeroy, Ohio. Ernest Feiger.
Advertisement ran from March 1 to 15, 1859.
1859 December 13. Meigs County Telegraph. (Pomeroy, Ohio.) December 13, 1859, New Series Vol. 2, No. 50, Whole No. 901, P. 3.
Call at the “Art Gallery” of Mr. E. Feiger, on Court St., and procure some of his nice Photographs for holiday presents. See advertisement.
1859 December 13. Meigs County Telegraph. (Pomeroy, Ohio.) December 13, 1859, New Series Vol. 2, No. 50, Whole No. 901, P. 2.
Gifts For The Holidays! In looking around for some memento to present to friends, consider that there is none so lasting and acceptable as a nice Photograph or Ambrotype. This notice is to remind all that the Art Gallery of E. F. Feiger in Swallow’s Building—entrance on Court street—is still open, where pictures of any kind can be procured, at reasonable prices.
Advertisement ran from December 13 to 27, 1859.
1860 July 31, 1860. Pomeroy Weekly Telegraph. (Pomeroy, Ohio.) July 31, 1860, Vol. III, No. 30, P. 2.
Removal. Having removed to Cartwright’s new Building, up stairs, corner of Court and Front streets, opposite Swallow’d Store, I am prepared to accommodate all who wish to procure good Pictures cheap.
My Gallery, being furnished with a good Skylight, affords better facilities for taking good Pictures than ever before exhibited in this place. E. F. Feiger.
Advertisement ran from July 31 to August 14, 1860.
1865 December 21, 1865. Pomeroy Weekly Telegraph. (Pomeroy, Ohio.) December 25, 1860, Vol. VIII, No. 51, P. 2.
Pomeroy Art Gallery, Feiger & Platts, Court Street, Pomeroy, Ohio, Would respectfully call the attention of the citizens of Pomeroy and vicinity to the superior advantages possessed by them for taking pictures in Every Style Of The Art. Having added many of the late improvements in the art, we are prepared to please all in Style, Quality and Price. We would call especial attention to our New Solar Camera for enlarging pictures, which in copying will give Any Size Required. For copying pictures of Deceased persons it is unequalled and will give general satisfaction.
Call and examine our specimens of Photographs, Frames, Albums, Cases, &c.
Pictures colored in superior style, in Ink, Water or Oil Colors, if desired.
Remember the place—Two Doors above the Post Office, on Court Street—Up Stairs. Feiger & Platts.
Advertisement was recorded form December 21, 1865 to February 22, 1856.
1847 Tilden’s Building, Hingham, Massachusetts.
1847 February 5. Hingham Patriot. (Hingham, Massachusetts.) February 5, 1847, Vol. 9, No. 32, P. 3.
Miniatures. Mr. Sydney G. Fay, Having taken, for a few days, a room in the tilden’s Building, up stairs, (entrance middle door,) would invite those desiring exact and faithful Likenesses, taken by the Daguerreotype, to call and examine his work.
With one of the best instruments in the United States, he is confident of giving entire satisfaction.
He is also prepared to take Miniatures of Bust, Portraits, &c. Also, to give true copies of Daguerreotypes Likenesses. Terms Reasonable.
Advertisement ran from February 5 & 12, 1847.
1847 February 12. Hingham Patriot. (Hingham, Massachusetts.) February 12, 1847, Vol. 9, No. 33, P. 2.
Daguerreotype Room. Mr. Fay intends remaining at his room a few days longer to answer the numerous calls made upon him. The favorable opportunity now offered to obtain a handsomeMiniature Likeness on reasonable terms, should not be overlooked by those who wish to leave some token of remembrance to their friends.—Such a token will be more highly prized, and more fondly cherished, than any thing else can be, and will be remembered when all other presents are forgotten.
1855-1859 131 Lake Street, Chicago, Illinois.
1859-1865 122 and 124 Clark Street, Chicago, Illinois.
1859-1860 Address Unknown, Savannah, Georgia.
1865 114 and 116 Clark Street, Chicago, Illinois.
1856 February 1. The Daily Democratic Press. (Chicago, Illinois.) February 1, 1856, Vol. IV, No. 105, P. 2 & 3.
Review of the Manufacturers of Chicago for 1855. In presenting our readers with the fourth Annual Review of the Manufactures of Chicago, we are happy to say , that this important arm of our prosperity continues to keep pace with the general growth of the city and country…
Daguerreotypes, Photographs, Ambrotypes, &c. The Daguerrean business is not strickly speaking a manufacturing branch of industry, yet as there is in this city a large amount of capital invested in establishments of this kind, we have thought it but proper to include them. During the past two years Daguerrean rooms have increased very rapidly; and we are happy to record the fact, that Chicago has some of the best operators in the United States.
A. Hesler, Daguerrean and Photographer, Metropolitan Block, Lasalle street.
This is the largest Daguerrean establishment in the United States. It consists of 12 large rooms, most appropriately fitted up. The show rooms are luxuriously furnished.
Mr. Hesler’s Daguerreotype likenesses have taken the premium at the World’s Fair, New York, and at several of the State Fairs throughout the United States. He was formerly situated at Galena, in this State, and moved to this city in December, 1854.
The following is a statement of his business during 1855.
Capital Investment…………$22,000
Va. Of Pictures, &c.………..$38,000
Material used……….………$18,000
Wages used………………….$6,500
No. of operators employed….10.
Root, Cook & Fassett, Daguerreotypist and Ambrotypist, 131 Lake street.
This establishment was only commenced las September, since which time they have acquired a good reputation as Daguerreans. Some of their pictures have taken premiums at State Fairs and Industrial exhibitions.
The Following is a statement of their operation from Sept. 1st to Dec. 31st, 1855.
Capital Invested……….$3,000
600 pictures……………$2,000
Raw material used……..$400
H. W. Williams, Daguerrean Artist, 58 West Randolph street.
The amount of business turned out in this establishment during the past year, is as follows:
Capital Invested……$500.
Value of pictures……$1,500.
No. of operators…….2.
Taylor & Lenox, Ambrotypist and Daguerreans, 75 Lake street.
This firm commenced business in September last. They are the proprietors of the patent right of Cutting’s process of Ambrotyping, for this State and Wisconsin. The figures during the few months they have been in business, we did not receive.
C. H. Lillibridge, Photographer, 77 Lake st….No report.
C. C. Kelsey, Daguerrean, 96 Lake st………..Blanks not returned.
G. E. Gordan, Daguerrean, 44 Dearborn st…..No returns.
E. G. Stiles, Daguerrean, 139 Lake st…………Blanks not returned.
P. Von Schneidau, Daguerrean, 142 Lake st….Blanks not returned.
1856 March 22. The Daily Democratic Press. (Chicago, Illinois.) March 22, 1856, Vol. IV, No. 148, P. 3.
Art Matters…Pictures and paintings are more talked of among us than ever before…
Hesler’s gallery contains some new gems in daguerreotypes and photographs. The crayon photographs on white paper are still “the rage” here. Mr. Marck, the artist in oil colors at Hesler’s has completed two photograph portraits of the late Edwin Shermanwhich will be exhibited next week and attract the attention of the numerous friends of the deceased. They were photographed from daguerreotypes.
At Fassett’s, some of the most perfect groups have been taken during the last week. In a short time Mt. Root of Philadelphia, Mr. Fassett’s partner, will be here to take photographs. Some of his specimens are already shown in the gallery. In some of them the effect is wonderfully heightened by deepening the darker portions by skilfully touching them with India ink. Some of these are valued as high as fifty dollars each.
1856 April 5. The Daily Democratic Press. (Chicago, Illinois.) April 5, 1856, Vol. IV, No. 160, P. 3.
Art Matters…From Hesler’s the artists are never gone. He is always there, a whole host in himself, and others are ever and anon coming to work with him. The pictures colored by Winters the last week have been better than his “specimens,” and are greatly admired. Marck has just finished a life size photograph on oil colors, of a child of a citizen of Kenosha, which is the best thing at Hesler’s this week. He is improving his pictures by lending a warmer tone of color. Hesler has commenced something which promises to be very fine; a photograph panoramic view of Chicago; it will be taken from the top of the new grain elevator at the Illinois Central depot, which is on the lake shore and 105 feet high. The view is complete from this stand point and if the work when finished equals our expectations, we shall have ,more to say of it hereafter.
Fassett’s Gallery has been rather surrendered to the carpenters, the painters and the upholsterers the past week, and will be found vastly improved in consequence, while several new and beautiful daguerreotypes show what is constantly being done by the artists there.
1856 June 19. The Daily Democratic Press. (Chicago, Illinois.) June 19, 1856, Vol. IV, No. 224, P. 3.
Improvements In Ambrotyping.—Ambrotyping is a branch of the fine arts, which has attracted the attention of daguerreans and others all over the United States. It consists in taking the picture on glass by a chemical preparation, instead of on a plate, as in Daguerreotypes, and as a general thing the expressions have been much clearer than in the latter. One difficulty however has always presented itself to operators—the pictures have been cold and dead-like, while it has been almost impossible to color them successfully. From two pictures which we had the pleasure of examining yesterday, however, in the store windows of D. B. Cooke & Co. and S. C. Griggs & Co., taken by S. M. Fassett, 133 Lake street. we are inclined to believe that perfection has been nearly approached in this branch. In those portraits the folds of the dresses are most naturally portrayed—each overlying the other, while the colors are faithfully and skillfully represented. There is besides in them a warmness of expression—every lineament and feature as if glowing with life—which is very beautiful. Altogether they are well worthy the inspection of the public.
1856 October 7. The Daily Democratic Press. (Chicago, Illinois.) October 7, 1856, Vol. V, No. 17, P. 3.
The Fair Of The American Institute.—We paid a short visit yesterday to the buildings for the Fair of the American Institute at the corner supposed to be spacious enough when planned, of Clark and Adams street. The buildings were but they are now enlarging them, although the space already enclosed is nearly twice as large as South Market Hall.
The great mass of artistes yesterday were in too much confusion to admit of a fair examination, but it is evident that the display will be very attractive and varied. Just as the daylight was dying away, we caught a glimpse of Fassett & Root’s collection of pictures as they were being hung. They are to occupy the centre of the space devoted to pictures, directly under a stained glass window; they will be the chief attraction at that end of the hall, for they are the finest specimens of plain and colored photographs we have ever seen, for distinctness, force, naturalness and beauty of finish. They show that Messrs Fassett & Root have secured the services of the best artists in the country. The photographs of John C. Fremont and other citizens finished in India ink, have a strength of expression that cannot be excelled, while the photographs and ambrotypes of ladies, colored to the life with all their accessories of dress and surroundings, are miracles of beauty.
1856 November 20. The Daily Democratic Press. (Chicago, Illinois.) November 20, 1856, Vol. V, No. 54, P. 3.
A Master-Stroke—Yesterday we had the pleasure of inspecting one of the finest specimens of photography we have ever seen. It was a picture (large size) of our well known friend “Tom Church.” There was “Tom,” just as natural and life-like as we have seem him for the past dozen years—every feature and twitch of his countenance as familiar to us as if he was standing by our side with the “roll book” under his arm.
The artist who deserves the credit of the picture is Mr. Fassett, of the firm of Fassett & Cook, 131 Lake street. The photograph is colored with India ink, and is finished in a style and on a principle entirely his own. Our readers will probably recollect that Mr. Fassett took the first premium at the Mechanics Fair, which was held recently in this city. Chicago has much reason, indeed, to be proud of her artists.
Those desirous of a living and a lasting likeness could not do better than visit Mr. Fassett’s gallery. His pictures are all good; but his photographs have a beauty of finish that cannot fail to be specially attractive to the public.
1857 April 2. The Daily Democratic Press. (Chicago, Illinois.) April 2, 1857, Vol. V, No. 165, P. 3.
Beautiful Photographs.—Yesterday we had the pleasure of examining in the rooms of Mr. Fassett, on lake street, several beautiful Photographs (cabinet size) of some well known faces, among whom may be mentioned Harry Johnson and Mr. Bates, of this city, and W. W. Chandler, now of Cleveland. As specimens of the art, they are perhaps the most perfect we have ever seen, being at the same time most faithful likenesses and handsome pictures. Mr. Fassett’s process of finishing photographs is entirely new, and, we may add, highly successful, as any one may judge, by the beautiful pictures which he sends forth to the world.
There is one significant feature in the above photographs which places them above those generally produced by artists. It is this: they have a smoothness of appearance, which is seldom exhibited in photographs, and which has sometimes rendered them so objectionable.
1858 November 6. Ashtabula Weekly Telegraph. (Ashtabula, Ohio.) November 6, 1858, Vol. IX, No. XXXXVII, Whole No. 463, P. 1 & 2.
A train on the Chicago & Milwaukee R….Not least the matters of interest, was the Photographic Gallery, of Mr. Fassett. His collection is numerous, and the specimens which compose it, in the highest attainment of the art. Brady’s Galleries in New York and Washington, are the only ones we have visited which compare in tone and finish with his pictures. They are taken of the ordinary sizes, and “thrown up” to any desired size even to full life, and colored to nature, giving them all the freshness, vigor of tone, and fidelity of the living subject. The coloring is executed by Mrs. F. We bid adieu to Chicago with a feeling of deference and respect, such as takes possession of us in the contemplation of triumphant development and greatness.
1859 April 4. The Press and Tribune. (Chicago, Illinois.) April 4, 1859, Vol. XII, No. 234, P. 1.
Art Matters.—Messrs. Fassett & Cook, Daguerrean and Photographists, will open on the first of May, their new rooms in Larmon’s Block, Nos. 122 and 124 Clark street, West Side, where all the lovers of art will delight to linger. Mr. Fassett will leave for New York this week, to procure the most elegant furniture and adornments that can be found to fit up his rooms in the most superb style. They have been arranged to order for Mr. Fassett, and nothing will be wanting to make them one of the most attractive resorts in the city. The reputation of Messrs. Fassett & Cook, as artists of the highest character, is too well established to need commendation at our hands. Specimens of their superior taste and artistic skill adorn the homes of hundreds of our citizens.
Their present rooms on Lake street, will be continued as usual. Due notice will be given when their new hall will be opened on Clark street. Their friends will wait impatiently the announcement of their first announcement.
1859 June 11. The Press and Tribune. (Chicago, Illinois.) June 11, 1859, Vol. XII, No. 291, P. 1.
The “Orchestrian.”—We made an incidental allusion yesterday to this wonderful musical instrument which will be on exhibition to-day and this evening at the rooms of Messrs. Fassett & Cook, 122 and 124 Clark street. It is an automatic orchestra, or orchestral organ, built by Schaepperle at Neustadt, Germany, at a cost of &6,000. There are only four of these instruments in the United States of which this is the largest and most perfect. It is capable of rendering between one and two hundred of the finest pieces of classical music, in full orchestra melody.
By the way, we may in this connection remind our readers that they may hear this instrument at the formal opening of the rooms of Messrs. F. & C., any time up to 10 o’clock this evening.
1859 June 13. The Press and Tribune. (Chicago, Illinois.) June 13, 1859, Vol. XII, No. 292, P. 1.
Grand Opening.—On Saturday morning, in company with other members of the press and gentlemen of this city, we attended the opening of Messre, Fassett & Cook’s new Daguerrean Gallery, and although this is a mere business enterprise on the part of energetic men, we cannot let the occasion pass without referring to it as a matter of public interest. For here are palatial apartments devoted to the Photographic art, which like the Ambrotype and Daguerreotype, should be dear to every American, seeing that it is essentially our peculiar field of art, and when reception halls and operating rooms can be fitted up like these of Messrs. F. & C., it shows the progress of that pursuit; particularly when we compare it with our first daguerreotype taken in a smoky garret of foul odor, or in a villainous car similar to that which Mrs. Jarley devoted to her wax-work exhibition, and Van Amburg to his beasts of prey, we at once see without reference even to the works of the artist themselves, what material progress has been made.
But the pictures are gems of art work, and altho’ for a long time we could not associate the efforts of Mr. Daguerre, or Talbot with the title of artist, we certainly must say, now, that to take a picture such as we saw adorning—not singly, but in numbers,—the walls of the new rooms, 122 and 124 South Clark street, it demands a high appreciation of the beautiful in art, that delicate execution, which are the real results of a mind education in the artistic steed.
It was the pictures executed by Mr. Fassett and repainted and retouched by his lady, that so recently astonished the editors of the N. Y. Tribune, and which they pronounced without Metropolitan prejudice, equal, if not superior to anything ever turned out by Gurney, Brady, or Fredericks. Mrs. F. is the artist of the concern, who does the coloring and touching, and her flesh tint coloring and drapery painting would have won the admiration of a Reynolds or an Eddy. She is indeed an artist, in the fullest sense of the term.
At the reception yesterday, we saw many of the elite of our city. The rooms, the music, (by that wonderful instrument—the orchestrian) and the artistic adornments, delighted every one. In the operating room we noticed that splendid window, which has been built with the building expressly for its purpose, it gives a Northern light of great power, but the intensity which sitters feel in other rooms, is neutralized by the admirable tinting of the walls and the light blue of the painting. It is far from painful to sit in this light, and have one’s features “typified.” The proprietors intend to give daily Free Matiness, and we assure our friends, both male and female, that an hour may be well spent in this way, listening to the orchestrian, and examining the specimens which adorn the walls of this splendid gallery of art.
1859 June 25. The Press and Tribune. (Chicago, Illinois.) June 25, 1859, Vol. XII, No. 303, P. 1.
On Thursday evening last the reception of Messrs. Fassett & Cook took place at the daguerrean palace, 126 Clark street. The rooms were crowded with our best citizens, who expressed themselves pleased with what they saw and heard from the Orchestrian. They are to have another of these delightful reunions this afternoon from 1 to 6 o’clock.
1859 July 1. The Press and Tribune. (Chicago, Illinois.) July 1, 1859, Vol. XII, No. 309, P. 1.
We are requested to announce that Messrs. Fassett & Cook will have their new Gallery, at 126 Clark street, opened during the Fourth for the reception of visitors, when the Orchestrian will be played for their entertainment.
1859 July 16. The Press and Tribune. (Chicago, Illinois.) July 16, 1859, Vol. XIII, No. 13, P. 1.
Reception At Fassett & Cook’s.—The public are invited to call and spend an hour in this establishment of art, which has proved such a triumph of success, notwithstanding the hard times.
1859 September 12. The Press and Tribune. (Chicago, Illinois.) September 12, 1859, Vol. XIII, No. 62, P. 1.
Fassett & Cook, 122 and 124 South Clark street, Photographic Rooms.
Advertisement ran from September 12 to 14, 1859.
1859 September 21. The Press and Tribune. (Chicago, Illinois.) September 21, 1859, Vol. XIII, No. 70, P. 1.
Photographs.—Persons wishing to see those beautiful Photographs exhibited by Fassett & Cook at the late U. S. Fair, are respectfully invited to call at their Rooms on Thursday evening, September 22d.
List of Premiums Awarded at the U. S. Agricultural Fair…
Class 118—Daguerreotypes And Photographs,
Best photographs in water color, Fassett & Cook, Chicago, silver medal.
Plain photographs, O. T. Wallace[1], Chicago, silver medal.
Certificates were awarded to A. Hesler for stereoscopic and microscopic photographs; Fassett & Cook colored ambrotypes.
Photographs in India Ink, Mrs. Fassett, Chicago, silver medal.
Photograph in Waster colors, Fassett & Cook, Chicago, silver medal.
Photographs plain, O. J. Wallace1, Chicago, silver medal.
Photograph Miniatures, Fassett & Cook, Chicago, diploma.
Photograph plain, A. Hesler, Chicago, diploma.
Photographs in oil, A. Hesler, Chicago, diploma.
Stereoscopic photographs, A. Hesler, Chicago, certificate.
Colored Ambrotypes, Fassett & Cook, Chicago, certificate.
Microscopic photographs, A. Hesler, Chicago, certificate.
1859 October 5. The Press and Tribune. (Chicago, Illinois.) October 5, 1859, Vol. XIII, No. 82, P. 1.
An Hour Among The Pictures.—One of the most delightful halls to visit in the city is Fassett & Cook’s Art Gallery on Clark street, in the marble block south of the Court House square. The exquisite taste with which Mr. Fassett’s pictures are finished command the warmest admiration of all who see them. Mr. Olcott, the correspondent of the New York Tribune, in his letter to the journal spoke of Mr. Fassett’s pictures in the following complimentary manner:
In the Fine Arts Hall, the windows in the roof are whitewashed to tomne down the light to suit the pictures and objects displayed. Messrs. Fassett & Cook of Chicago show some of the finest specimens of colored photography I ever saw. In particular, a family group of five figures should be noticed. The artist is a lady, the wife of Mr. Fassett, and a former pupil of Wandesford, the water colorist. The same parties exhibit a colored likeness of Col. Capron, the Superintendent of the show, and other fine specimens. None of the exhibitors show the beautiful coloring of Mrs. Fassett’s pictures, which are really pretty enough to grace the walls of our Academy of Design.
The family group here spoken of is a picture of D. B. Cooke, Esq., and his family, and well does it deserve the compliment it received from Mr. Olcott. It can be seen in the gallery of Mr. Fassett. There are many other elegant pictures there which will well repay half an hour’s study.
1859 November 3. The Press and Tribune. (Chicago, Illinois.) November 3, 1859, Vol. XIII, No. 107, P. 1.
To Be Closed For The Winter.—Our citizens will learn with regret that Fassett & Cook’s Art Gallery on Clark street, will be closed for the winter after the first of December. Mr. Fassett has made arrangements to spend the winter at Savannah, Georgia. We need scarcely speak of the splendid daguerreotypes, and the elegant photographs, for which this establishment has become so justly distinguished. For delicacy and beauty of coloring, for accuracy and life-like resemblance, the pictures of Mr. Fassett have, in our humble judgement, no superior. Many of our citizens will remember the exquisite picture of our fellow citizen, D. B. Cooke, Esq., which was on exhibition at the U. S. Fair. Doubtless many of our citizens then determined to have a family picture, but have since been deferring the matter from week to week. We hope that such and all others who wish to have photographs of themselves and friends will call immediately. Only four weeks remain before Mr. Fassett’s rooms will be closed, and let each one who wants a picture call the first pleasant day. We have no doubt that Mr. Fassett and his accomplished lady, to whose pencil he is indebted for much of his success, will have a most successful wither at Savannah. Their eminent ability as artist justly entitles them to it.
1862 December 4. Chicago Evening Journal. (Chicago, Illinois.) December 4, 1862, Vol. 21, No. 281, P. 1.
Chancery Notice.—State of Illinois, County of Cook, ss. Superior Court of Chicago, January Term, 1863.
Samuel M. Fassett vs George S. Cook. In Chancery.
Affidavit of the non-residence of George S. Cook, defendant above named, having been filed in the office of the clerk of said Superior Court of Chicago, notice is hereby given to the said George S. Cook that the complainant filed his bill of Complaint in said Court, on the Chancery, side thereof, on the 3d day of December, 1862, and that a summons thereupon issued out of said Court against said defendant, returnable on the first Monday of January next, 1863, as is by law required.
Now, unless you, the said George S. Cook, shall personally be and appear before said Superior Court of Chicago, of Cook County, on the first day of the next term thereof, to be holden at Chicago, in said county, on the first Monday of January, 1863, and plead, answer or demur to the said complainant’s bill of complaint, the same and the matters and things therein charged and stated will be taken as confessed, and a decree entered against you according to the prayer of said bill. Thomas B. Carter, Clerk. Burgess & Root, Complainant’s Sol’rs.
1910 August 4. Washington Post. (Washington, D.C.) August 4, 1910, No. 12,474, P. 10.
Samuel M. Fassett Dead. Former Government Photographer Succumbs at Daughter’s Home.
Samuel Montague Fassett, a relative of Representative J. Sloat Fassett, of New York, one-time photographer to the supervising architect of the Treasury Department, and a resident of Washington for about 35 years, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. W. W. Delano, 1763 Newton street, Tuesday morning. Mr. Fassett had been ill only several days, and his death was a shock to his relatives. Senile debility was the cause of death.
Funeral services will be held at the daughter’s residence this afternoon at 2:30 o’clock. Interment will be in Creek Cemetery. Born In Chicago in 1825, at one time Mr. Fassett was one of the prominent photographers of that city. He resided there up to the time he came to Washington in 1875 to accept the position at the Treasury Department. His wife, Mrs. C. Adele Fassett, who died in 1898, was a well-known painter. Her picture in the Senate wing of the Capital, the “Electoral Committee of President Hayes,” was her most famous work, it contains more than 200 portraits.
Mr. Fassett left six children. They are Mrs. Myron A. Pearce, of San Antonio, Tex.; Mrs. Arthur Cristadoro, of New York city, Mrs. W. W. Delano and Mrs. Flora F. Hodge, of this city; Montague Fassett, of New York, and Raphael Fassett of Chicago.
[1] Possibly O. J. Wallis.
Pioneer American Photographers, 1839 - 1860 