Category Archives: Daguerreotypes

Hankins, Thomas

1851                Head of Market, over Messrs. McClelland, Nashville, Tennessee.

1853                Address Unknown, Aberdeen, Mississippi.

1851 October 2.  Christian Advocate.  (Nashville, Tennessee.)  October 2, 1851, Vol. XV, No. 38, Whole No. 777, P. 2.

We call attention to the advertisement of Mr. Hankins.  He is certainly a superior artist, and will give satisfaction to all those who desire to preserve the likenesses of themselves or their families.  We think we have never known his pictures excelled.

1851 October 2.  Christian Advocate.  (Nashville, Tennessee.)  October 2, 1851, Vol. XV, No. 38, Whole No. 777, P. 3.

Hankins Beautiful Daguerreotypes.  The Largest Gallery In The West.  The process by which I am now taking likenesses is entirely new and original, and considered by the best judges to be the greatest improvement ever made in the art.  The images are not only remarkably clear and distinct, so far as the delineation of features is concerned, but posses a beauty of shade and color which approximate them to the most costly work of the painter, while the likeness is of necessity more precise, being the work of nature and art combined.  Portraits beautifully colored if required.

Persons Generally are respectfully solicited to call and examine a collection of specimens, whether they wish to sit for a likeness or not.

Gallery at the head of Market, Public Square, over the store of Messrs. McClelland.

Operators generally can be supplied with stock, upon the best terms; with the advantage of obtaining my unequalled sensitive electric compound.  Every variety of case and plate constantly on hand.  Thomas Haskins.

Advertisement ran from October 2 to 23, 1851.

1853 April 16.  The Weekly Independent.  (Aberdeen, Mississippi.)  April 16, 1853, Vol. 8, No. 52, Whole No. 416, P.3.

Delays are Dangerous!  The most important concerns of life are too often deferred until a more convenient season, and lasting regrets are frequently the consequence of unnecessary delays.—To-morrow, the kind parent, the beloved child, the affectionate companion, the esteemed friend, the object of your warmest affection, may leave for a distance land, or be laid where your eyes never can behold their features, except in the form we propose to effect for you.  Readers, if you have a kind friend, in whom you feel an interest, and your kind feelings are reciprocated, that friend will value a precious memorial, if taken in our late and improved style.  To all who have lost a relative or friend, and have not even the shadow of a resemblance to look upon, how vary valuable would one of our Life-Like Pictures be.  How often is the remark made?  “Oh, what would I give for such a picture of my parent, child or friend!”  Now, while your mind is interested, we advise you to call at once and have your picture taken by Hankins—return home delighted, and in after life you will thank us for these timely suggestions.

Old images Improved, Exact Copies of Pictures taken, or reduced in size for medallions, Rings and breast-pins, Cases Of All Sorts On Hand!  Pictures taken equally well in cloudy weather.  We design making our Gallery a permanent and pleasant Place of Resort for citizens and strangers.  You cannot call to often.—

We particularly ask the attention of the Ladies.  Thos. Hankins.  January 22, 1853.

1853 April 16.  Weekly Conservative.  (Aberdeen, Mississippi.)  April 16, 1853, Vol. 8, No. 52, Whole No. 416, P.3.

Delays are Dangerous!  The most important concerns of life are too often deferred until a more convenient season, and lasting regrets are frequently the consequence of unnecessary delays.—To-morrow, the kind parent, the beloved child, the affectionate companion, the esteemed friend, the object of your warmest affection, may leave for a distance land, or be laid where your eyes never can behold their features, except in the form we propose to effect for you.  Readers, if you have a kind friend, in whom you feel an interest, and your kind feelings are reciprocated, that friend will value a precious memorial, if taken in our late and improved style.  To all who have lost a relative or friend, and have not even the shadow of a resemblance to look upon, how vary valuable would one of our Life-Like Pictures be.  How often is the remark made?  “Oh, what would I give for such a picture of my parent, child or friend!”  Now, while your mind is interested, we advise you to call at once and have your picture taken by Hankins—return home delighted, and in after life you will thank us for these timely suggestions.

Old images Improved, Exact Copies of Pictures taken, or reduced in size for medallions, Rings and breast-pins, Cases Of All Sorts On Hand!  Pictures taken equally well in cloudy weather.  We design making our Gallery a permanent and pleasant Place of Resort for citizens and strangers.  You cannot call to often.—

We particularly ask the attention of the Ladies.   Thos. Hankins.  January 22, 1853.

Hankins, Jr., Thomas

1857-1858       6 Main Street, Norfolk, Virginia.

1859                Address unknown, Norfolk, Virginia.

A Beautiful Christmas or New Years’ Present.  We would respectfully remind our friends and the public generally, that we have on hand a beautiful collection of Cases For Daguerreotypes, Ambrotypes, And Melainotypes, Suited For Christmas or New Years Presents, and what can be more appreciated as a present on such occasion, that a correct and well executed likeness of ones self to a kind relative or friend.

Any style of picture desired can be furnished unsurpassed in point of beauty and excellence.  Haskins & Clark, No. 6 Main street, Norfolk.  de23.

1858 February 9.  The Day Book.  (Norfolk, Virginia.)  February 9, 1848, Vol. 1, No. 110, P. 1.

Suggestion.—Our citizens are aware that it is highly probable that the next State Fair will be held in this city.  It will naturally be the wish and pride of our citizens to take as many premiums as possible, and we learn that Daguerreotypes of all the prominent buildings in Virginia, will be exhibited on the occasion for premiums.  We move (who will second it) that Hankins and Clark, or Burwell and Hobday, be waited upon by a committee from the Council, and enter into a contract to take the Daguerreotype of that beautiful structure (over the left) our Market House.  We are compelled to have two premiums on it at any rate; first, it is the meanest looking building that can be found in a month’s walk, and secondly, it is the largest rat trap in Virginia.

1858 February 13.  The Day Book.  (Norfolk, Virginia.)  February 13, 1848, Vol. 1, No. 114, P. 1.

The Rat Trap.—Messrs, Hankins &B Clark, availing of the suggestion thrown out in our local column a few days since has taken a Photographic view of our Market House, in its present dilapidated condition and sent us a copy of it for exhibition.

We suggest that the City Councils have several thousand copies of the above view struck off, and distributed all over the country, as affording an evidence of the progress our city rulers are making to keep pace with the growth and prosperity of our City.

1858 February 18.  The Day Book.  (Norfolk, Virginia.)  February 18, 1848, Vol. 1, No. 118, P. 1.

Smash.—Yesterday morning about 10 o’clock, a large case of specimen Daguerreotypes, hanging out at the door of Messrs. Hankins & Clark’s Gallery on Main street, fell to the, ground breaking quite a number of the pictures.  However the loss is but trifling.

1859 July 26.  Newbern Weekly Progress.  (Newbern, North Carolina.)  July 26, 1858, Vol. I, No. 44, P. 3.

A Rising Star.—Miss Martha Haines Butt, of Norfolk, Va., is one of the rising stars of the day.  A Female College at Harrisburg, Pa. recently conferred on her the honorary degree of A. M. (Mistress of Arts.)—the title of mistress of hearts the talented young author possessed before.

Brady of New York has just completed a very fine life-size Photograph of this fascinating young lady, which as a specimen of art we have heard spoken of in the highest terms, and it is represented as one of the most life-like resemblances ever seen.  It is now at the Gallery of Hankins, Norfolk, where it has been seen and admired by a large number of persons.

Handerson, L. R.

1842                Rooms in Stickney’s Block, Concord, New Hampshire.

1842 May 26.  New Hampshire  Patriot and State Gazette.  (Concord, New Hampshire.)  May 26, 1842, Vol. VII, No. 400, P. 2.

Just look at Mr. Henderson’s card in our advertising columns.  Mr. H. is prepared to take Daguerreotype likenesses in a style equal to any thing in this country.  Mr. H. has provided himself with the proper plates, and will take the miniatures of a whole family on one plate.  His rooms, in Stickney’s Block, directly opposite the State House, are open at all times during the day.

1842 May 26.  New Hampshire  Patriot and State Gazette.  (Concord, New Hampshire.)  May 26, 1842, Vol. VII, No. 400, P. 3.

Daguerreotype Miniatures Taken at No. 2, Stickney’s Brick Block, Up Stairs, By l. r. Handerson.  Miniatures can be taken in all weather, and equal to any taken in any place in the United States.

L. R. H. having provided himself with the proper plates, can, if desired, take miniatures of the whole family on one plate.

Advertisement ran from May 26 to July 28, 1842.

Hamilton, Charles F.

1857                Corner Clay and Kearny Street, San Francisco, California.

1858-1859       182 Washington Street, San Francisco, California.

1859-1860       111 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, California.

Daguerreotypes.—Chase, Daguerrian Artist, from Boston, has taken rooms in this city, in connection with Mr. Hamilton, on Clay street, near Montgomery, in Dr. Rabe’s building.

Advertisement ran from May 15 to 23, 1852.

Hamilton & Starr’s Daguerrean Gallery.  The Miniatures taken in this establishment are well known for their lifelike appearance, beauty of coloring, and style of finish.  Messrs. H. & S., are both practical operators, and specimens of their work, can at all times be seen in their Gallery, in shadows of well known individuals, and which specimens are always open to the inspection of the public.

Buildings, Landscapes, and everything appertaining to the art, executed at short notice, and satisfaction guarantied in all cases.  Apparatus and stock for sale at the lowest prices.  Mr. H. has recovered from his late indisposition, and ladies and gentlemen who were disappointed previous to the sailing of the last steamer can now be attended to with facility and dispatch.  A visit from ladies and gentlemen is respectfully solicited. Hamilton & Starr’s, Daguerrean Gallery, Rabe’s Building, Clay street, three doors above Montgomery.

Advertisement ran from December 17, 1852 to April 15, 1853.

Re-Opened.  Star & Johnson’s “Excelsior Daguerrean Gallery.”  (Late Hamilton and Starr’s)  The above Gallery, having been closed for a fortnight past, is now re-opened, greatly enlarged and improved, no pains or expense having been spared to make this, as its name imports, The Excelsior Gallery of San Francisco.  The Show Rooms, Private Dressing Room for Ladies’, Laboratory, etc., are of the largest and most convenient plan.  The light is superior to any in the city, and equal to the most celebrated Galleries in the Atlantic cities.  Our Rooms are especially adapted for taking Family Groups, and so well ventilated that no unpleasantness is experienced even in the warmest weather, as is the case in smaller Galleries.  Mr. Johnson, the artist, from his experience of thirteen years’ successful practice as a Daguerreotypist in the cities of New York and New Orleans, Augusta, Ga., Cleveland, Ohio; and during four seasons at Saratoga and two at the White Sulphur Springs,—feels himself warranted in insuring perfect satisfaction to all our patrons.  No charge is made nor is any picture suffered to leave our possession, until the sitter is entirely satisfied.  Rabe’s Building, 163 Clay st.

1854 April 6.  Daily California Chronicle.  (San Francisco, California.)  April 6, 1854. Vol. 1, No. 16, P. 2.

Chas. F. Hamilton.  Jacob Shew.  Daguerreotypes!  Daguerreotypes!  The Subscribers respectfully inform the public of San Francisco that they have purchased the Daguerrean Gallery on Clay street, lately occupied by Starr & Johnson, and refitted it in the most complete manner, and where every thing relating to the art will be executed in the most perfect manner.

The only place in California where Shew’s Daguerreotypes and Stereoscopes are taken.

This Establishment occupies four rooms, and is the most complete establishment of the kind on the Pacific.

Private parlor for ladies, furnished in the most magnificent style.  Ladies and Gentlemen are respectfully invited to call whether they wish to sit or not.  Hamilton & Starr, (late Starr & Johnson,) 163 Clay st., Rabe’s Building, two doors above Montgomery, San Francisco.

Advertisement ran from April 6 to 17, 1854.

1854 April 8.  San Francisco Evening Journal.  (San Francisco, California.)  April 8, 1854, Vol. II, No. 284, P. 2.

Daguerreotypes.—By referring to our advertising columns it will be seen that those magnificent daguerreotype rooms formerly occupied by Starr & Johnson, in Dr. Rabe’s Building, on Clay, near the corner of Montgomery street, have been taken by Messrs. Hamilton & Shew.  These gentlemen are so well known as efficient operators in the art daguerrean that to speak of the advantages they possess would be superfluous.

1854 April 8.  San Francisco Evening Journal.  (San Francisco, California.)  April 8, 1854, Vol. II, No. 284, P. 2.

Chas. F. Hamilton.  Jacob Shew.  Daguerreotypes!  Daguerreotypes!  The Subscribers respectfully inform the public of San Francisco that they have purchased the Daguerrean Gallery on Clay street, lately occupied by Starr & Johnson, and refitted it in the most complete manner, and where every thing relating to the art will be executed in the most perfect manner.

The only place in California where Shew’s Daguerreotypes and Stereoscopes are taken.

This Establishment occupies four rooms, and is the most complete establishment of the kind on the Pacific.

Private parlor for ladies, furnished in the most magnificent style.  Ladies and Gentlemen are respectfully invited to call whether they wish to sit or not.  Hamilton & Starr, (late Starr & Johnson,) 163 Clay st., Rabe’s Building, two doors above Montgomery, San Francisco.

Advertisement was recorded five times between April 8 to 22, 1854.

1854 May 5.  The Pacific.  (San Francisco, California.)  May 5, 1854, Vol. III, No. 26, P. 3.

The Citizens Of San Francisco And The Public Generally Are Invited To Call And Examine Specimens of Stereoscopes Thake at our rooms.  The superiority of our Daguerreotypes are so well known that it is unnecessary to mention it.  We are both practical operators of ten years experience in the art—and the scientific manner in which our rooms and skylights are arranged gives us advantages not possessed by any other establishment non the Pacific Coast.  Our Gallery [is] by far the most extensive and best furnished in California.  We have a Ladies Parlor furnished in the most splendid manner—besides a Public Reception Room.  Ladies and Gentlemen are respectfully invited to call.  Hamilton & Shew, Babe’s Building, 163 Clay Street.

Advertisement was recorded thirty one times between May 5, 1854 to February 2, 1855.

1855 February 9.  The Pacific.  (San Francisco, California.)  February 9, 1855, Vol. IV, No. X, P. 3.

The Citizens Of San Francisco And The Public Generally Are Invited To Call And Examine Specimens of Stereoscopes Thake at our rooms.  The superiority of our Daguerreotypes are so well known that it is unnecessary to mention it.  We are both practical operators of ten years experience in the art—and the scientific manner in which our rooms and skylights are arranged gives us advantages not possessed by any other establishment non the Pacific Coast.  Our Gallery [is] by far the most extensive and best furnished in California.  We have a Ladies Parlor furnished in the most splendid manner—besides a Public Reception Room.  Ladies and Gentlemen are respectfully invited to call.  Hamilton & Shew, Babe’s Building, 163 Clay Street.

Advertisement ran from February 9 to November 9, 1855.

1855 November 19.  Price Current and Shipping List.  (San Francisco, California.)  November 19, 1855, Vol. 4, No. 43, P. 3.

Facts For The People!  It Is Well Known That Well executed Daguerreotype Likeness taken on silver are far superior In Every Respect to the finest Oil Miniature Painting or Daguerreotypes on glass or paper, and is much cheaper.  Call and examine our Daguerreotypes taken on pure Silver, and we guarantee that you will sat that they have All the beauty of a fine miniature painting on ivory, and far more accurate as regards the likeness.  We have got a system of coloring and painting Daguerreotypes known only to ourselves, which never fades, and gives the Daguerreotype such a life-like appearance. 

Just received by Express a beautiful assortment of every description of Fancy Cases.  Hamilton & Shew, 163 Clay street, Rabe’s Building.

Advertisement ran from November 19, 1855 to April 4, 1856.

Mr. Shew, Late Of The Firm Of Hamilton & Shew, Would strongly recommend the attention of his friends and patrons to the new style of Improved Ambrotypes, (not introduced by Mr. Ford,) which he believes the most beautiful production of the Photographic Art.  He has so much confidence in their success, that he is now applying his whole attention to the new art at Mr. Ford’s Rooms, where he would be pleased to see his friends.

Advertisement was recorded four times between January 4 to 25, 1856.

1856 January 26.  The Wide West.  (San Francisco, California.) January 26, 1856, Vo. II, No. 46, Whole No. 98, P. 3.

1857 June 28.  The Golden Era.  (San Francisco, California.)  June 28, 1857, Vol. V, No. 29, P. 4.

Removal—Notice To The Public.  Charles F. Hamilton, Daguerrean Artist, respectfully announces that he has taken charge of Mr. Bradley’s Daguerrean Gallery, South East corner of Clay and Kearny streets, where he will be happy to see his old friends and customers.

He would caution the public that the specimens on exhibition at his old stand, (Dr. Rabe’s Building, on Clay street,) were taken by him, and Not by the individual who now seeks to make a reputation under false pretences [sic.].  Charles F. Hamilton relies solely on his own meriss [sic.] for a share of the public patronage, and not upon the handi-work of others.

Advertisement was recorded three times between June 28 to July 19, 1857.

1857 July 26.  The Golden Era.  (San Francisco, California.)  July 26, 1857, Vol. V, No. 33, P. 8.

Who and Where To Fine Them.

Hamilton, Chas. F., Daguerreotypist—Corner Clay and Kearny streets.

Potter & Co., Daguerreotypist—185 Clay street.

Shew, Wm., Daguerreotypist—113 Montgomery street.

Vance, R. H., Daguerreotypist—Cor. Montg’y and Sacramento sts.

1858 October 3.  The Golden Era.  (San Francisco, California.)  October 3, 1858, Vol. VI, No. 43, P. 8.

The Only Gold Medal!  Charles F. Hamilton, Daguerrean Artist, 182 Washington Street, (Between Kearny and Montgomery,) Was awarded The Only Gold Medal for The Best Ambrotypes, &c., at the late State Fair at Marysville, California.

1858 December 5.  California Home Journal.  (San Francisco, California.)  December 5, 1858, Vol. 1, No. 10, P. 4.

The Only Gold Medal!  Charles F. Hamilton, Daguerrean Artist, 182 Washington Street, between Kearny & Montgomery sts., Was Awarded The Only Gold Medal for the Best Ambrotypes, etc., at the late State Fair at Marysville.

In Addition To The Above, A Committee Of Judges have awarded the First Premium at the late Mechanics Fair to Charles F. Hamilton, for the finest Ambrotypes exhibited.

Collodion, of my own make, superior to any in market.  Price, $3.50 per lb.  Orders from the country Promptly attended to.  Oct16.

1859 February 5.  The Pacific.  (San Francisco, California.)  February 5, 1859, Vol. IX, No. 244, P. 3.

It Smacks of a Failing Business.—A certain old fogy is sore because I was his successful competitor at the late State Fair and the Fair of the Mechanics’ Institute in this city.  I have made it a rule never to notice anything emanating from such a source, but as a character of a committee of honorable gentlemen is assailed, I feel called upon to notice the matter.  In a few days I shall hear from them.  The individual is grieved because we are leading him in every branch of the art—Photographs as well as Ambrotypes.  The subscriber flatters himself that neither here nor elsewhere can anything dishonorable be brought to His door.  Chas. F. Hamilton, Firm of Hamilton & Co., Daguerrean Artists, 182 Washington street.

Advertisement was recorded five times between February 5 to March 21, 1859.

1859 July 30.  The Pacific.  (San Francisco, California.)  July 30, 1859, Vol. X, No. 53, P. 3.

A Temple of Art is Hamilton & Lovering’s new Photographic Establishment.  There are Eight rooms all on the second floor (an advantage possessed by no other extensive establishment in the United States), and built expressly for the practice of the Photographic Art in all its branches.  An experience of both Hamilton and Lovering of over sixteen years constant practice enables them to turn out finer work than any other establishment, as they are not compelled, like other establishments, to hire operators, who scarcely know anything about the business.  The First Premium was awarded to us at both the last State and City Fairs.  Hamilton & Lovering, Second story of Lecount’s Gallery, 111 Montgomery street.  jy12.

Advertisement was recorded twice on July 30 & August 5, 1859.

1860 October 23.  The Pacific.  (San Francisco, California.)  October 23, 1860, Vol. XI, No. 123, P. 2.

Four First Premiums at the late State Fair, and the Only First Premium at the Fair of the Mechanics’ Institute, were all awarded to us, over all competitors, for the Best Photographs, plain, re-touched, and life-size.  Also, the First Premium for the best Ambrotypes, at both Fairs. 

Prices low as ordinary pictures at other establishments.  Rooms all on the second floor.

Over seventeen years’ experience of both of us, enables us to excel all our competitors.  Hamilton & Lovering, Lecount’s Building.  111 Montgomery street.

Advertisement ran from October 23 to November 16, 1860.  

1864 July 10.  El Nuevo Mundo.  (San Francisco, California.)  July 10, 1864, Vol. 1, No.11, P. 3.

Gran Reduccion De Precios.  Wise & Prindle, Propietarios De La Galeria Fotofrafica.  Conocida antes come Galeria De Hamilton.

Ha Reducido El Precio De Targetas

Como Sigue:

Vinetas, por docena………………..$4.00

Cuerpo Entero………………………$3.00

Segunda docena de Vinetas………..$3.00

Segunda docena Cuerpo Entero……$2.50

Recordaran todos losque esta Galeria, que es la mas elegante del Estado, y que esta ahora produciendo pinturas que no son aventajadas en la costa.

La Galeria ha sido repare la, puesta er completo orden y ilena de nievas pinturas, y tiene todo lo necesario para comodidad y diversión del publico.

Uno de los propietarios, James Wise, es un Artista de profesión, y toda su atención esta consagrada a la toma de pinturas.  Tienen también dos de los mas bellos operadores en el Estado, como se vera por sus muestras.

Pinturas Ejecutadas En Lienzo, Potogrgrapias Iluminadas, Y toda otra especie de pinturas serán ejecutadas en esta Galeria, Y no se ahorrara ningún trabajo para una satisfacción general.

Tengase esta toda en un pise, y arriba de unos cuantos escalones, nada mas.

No. 417 calle de Montgomery, entre Sacramento y California.

Advertisement was recorded from July 10 to December 22, 1864.     


Hamilton, Charles F.

1848                Rooms in the Cabell House, Lynchburg, Virginia.

Charles T. Hamilton[1], Daguerrian Artist.  Has just returned from New York with a new and improved apparatus.  During Mr. H’s stay in N. York, he operated in the establishment of Mr. Brady, (the first in the city,) in order to make himself thoroughly acquainted with the best mode of operating; and with his Large Sky-Light, now erected for him in the Cabell House, he will, in a few days, be prepared to take miniatures in most perfect manner.

Mr. H. has paid particular attention to the large Bust Pictures, mostly taken in the North, and which he will warrant equal to any taken in the United States.  A call from citizens and strangers is respectfully solicited.

Advertisement ran from August 14 to September 7, 1848.

1848 September 7.  Lynchburg Virginian.  (Lynchburg, Virginia.)  September 7, 1848, Vol. XXVII, No. 10, P. 4.

Charles T. Hamilton, Daguerrian Artist.  Would respectfully invite Ladies and Gentlemen (whether they are desirous of having miniatures taken or not,) to call at his rooms in the Cabell House and examine a number of specimens taken since his return from New York, with his improved apparatus, and a Large Sky Light, which he has had erected at a considerable expense in the Cabell House.

The subscriber flatters himself that his miniatures on inspection will be found superior to any ever before taken in this State.

N. B.—A supply of beautiful Gold Lockets, suitable for Daguerreotypes, for sale.

Advertisement was recorded four times between September 7 to October 5, 1848.

1848 November 27.  Lynchburg Virginian.  (Lynchburg, Virginia.)  November 27, 1848, Vol. XXVII, No. 33, P. 3.

To The Inhabitants of Lynchburg and vicinity.  Hamilton & Adams, Daguerrian Artists, Respectfully return thanks to the ladies and gentlemen of Lynchburg and the surrounding Country, for the liberal patronage bestowed non them during their residence in this place.  They are now better prepared than ever to take Daguerreotype Miniatures, having procured from the North, at considerable expense, a large wheel for polishing purposes, together with all the other recent improvements, which have never before been introduced in this State; and from Mr. Hamilton’s experience of nearly five years in Virginia, and repeated visits to New York—and Mr. Adams’ experience as an operator four years in the , first establishments in New York and Philadelphia, they are prepared, with the aid of a large Sky-Light to produce miniatures, which for depths of tone, softness of light and shade, beauty of coloring, and easy and graceful positions, will defy competition.  Ladies and gentlemen are respectfully invited to call at their rooms in the Cabell House, and examine the specimens.

Likenesses inserted in Lockets, Bracelets, Breastpins, &c.  Likenesses taken of sick or deceased persons, dwelling houses, country-seats, in the best style.  Portraits and Daguerreotypes accurately copied.  Chas. F. Hamilton, John Adams.

N. B.—H & A.  would respectfully inform the public that they have been taking Daguerreotypes by the Electro-Galvanic Process for two years past, and with their Gold-enamelling [sic.] process, their miniatures are rendered imperishable in any clime. 

Advertisement ran from November 27 to December 25, 1848.


[1] Probably Charles F. Hamilton.

Ham, Francis W.

1848                Congress Hall,—Congress Street, Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

1848                S. Ham’s Building, opposite Mansion House, Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

1849                23 Congress Street, Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

Ham’s Daguerrian Gallery of Beautiful Colored Photographs, At Congress Hall,—Congress street.  Francis W. Ham respectfully informs the ladies and gentlemen of Portsmouth and vicinity that he has taken rooms formerly occupied by J. P. Plumer, is prepared to take likenesses in a few seconds with the greatest ease and comfort to the sitter, retaining a perfect natural expression.

Pictures will in all cases be gilded and warranted to be durable.  They will not fade either by time or exposure.  Being put up securely, they may be sent to distant parts of the country or across the ocean, and will not be effected by the sea air.  The perfection which has been attained in this art enables the proprietor to produce perfect likenesses of childrenas well as adults in an exceedingly short space of time.

Miniatures taken separately or in groups of any number, and neatly set in frames, morocco cases, lockets, breast pins or rings, as may be desired.  Likenesses of deceased persons also taken.  Portraits and miniatures faithfully copied.  A good assortment of gold and plated Lockets constantly on hand.

Instructions, embracing all the recent improvements in the art, given, and apparatus furnished to pupils on the most favorable terms.

Advertisement ran from March 8 to May 20, 1848.

1848 May 24.  Portsmouth Journal of Literature and Politics.  (Portsmouth, New Hampshire.)  May 24, 1848, Vol. LIX, No. Extra, P. 3.

Ham’s Daguerrian Gallery Of Beautiful Colored Photographs, At Congress Hall,—Congress street

Advertisement ran from May 24 to December 28, 1848.

1849 January 13.  Portsmouth Journal of Literature and Politics.  (Portsmouth, New Hampshire.)  January 13, 1849, Vol. LX, No. 2, P. 3.

“Come, sit thee down!”  In F. W. Ham’s New Daguerreotype Room, No. 23 Congress Street, (directly opposite the Mansion House,) and be furnished with a perfect picture of yourself.  He can assure all who may favor him with their patronage that this Peculiar Process and Lights, (both North and South,) are fully equal to any other, and pronounced by good operators to be first rate.

One Dollar Only will be charged for the best pictures in silk cases.  Other prices according to the quality of the cases, locket or frame.

Pictures of Children or Invalids taken by a very quick process peculiar to this establishment.

All are respectfully invited to call and examine specimens after looking elsewhere.

N. B.  All the specimens exhibited at the above room were executed by the subscriber.  Francis W. Ham.  No. 23 Congress Street.

Advertisement ran from January 13 to 27, 1849.

1849 January 13.  Portsmouth Journal of Literature and Politics.  (Portsmouth, New Hampshire.)  January 13, 1849, Vol. LX, No. 2, P. 3.

Ham’s Daguerrian Gallery, Removed from Congress Hall to S. Ham’s Building, opposite the Mansion House.

Please call and examine Specimens.

Advertisement ran from January 13 to July 7, 1849.

Hall, N. B.

New Sky Light Daguerreian Gallery.  The subscriber would respectfully inform the citizens of Middletown and vicinity, that he has fitted up a large Sky Light Daguerreian Gallery, over the store of Mr. J. Tobey, and is now prepared to execute Daguerreian pictures in the most approved style.  Having been engaged in the business a number of years, with some of the first Operators in New York and New Haven, I flatter myself that I shall be able to suit all who wish, with as good a picture of themselves, as can be obtained at any establishment, and at any reasonable rates.

Particular attention will be given to taking Family Groups, on large Plates.

Pictures neatly set in Lockets, Pins, &c.  Paintings and Daguerreotypes copied.  Persons wishing to procure Pictures of Invalids, or deceased friends, will be waited upon at their dwellings, at reasonable rates.—Full Instruction given in the Art.  N. B. Hall.

Advertisement ran on October19 to 26, 1853.

1854 December 13.  The Constitution.  (Middletown, Connecticut.)  December 13, 1854, Vol. XVIII, No. 885, P. 4.

Daguerreotypes.  Middletown Daguerrian Gallery, over J. Tobey’s Store.  Hall & Ventres, Proprietors The subscribers begs leave to inform his friends and the public that he has associated with him in the Daguerrian business, Mr. D. B. Ventres, Jr., from New Haven, well known as an experienced operator.  The business will be continued at the above named place, where Hall and Ventres will be found ready at all times to attend to the wishes of those who may favor them with a call.  Having had six years experience in this beautiful art, and being conversant with all the modern improvements, he flatters himself that with the assistance of Mr. Ventres he will be able to please the most fastidious.

He returns his sincere acknowledgements for the flattering and liberal patronage bestowed on him since opening his Sky Light Gallery, and hopes his endeavers to please will continue to meet the approbation of his patrons.

Pictures taken of sick or deceased persons in or out of town, at short notice.  Pictures inserted in Lockets, Rings, &c.  Daguerreotypes and Painting copied.

Citizens and strangers are invited to call and examine specimens.  May 23d, 1854.

Advertisement was recorded from December 13, 1854 to January 24, 1855.

1855 January 25.  The Constitution.  (Middletown, Connecticut.)  January 25, 1855, Vol. XVIII, No. 891, P. 3.

Middletown Daguerreian Rooms, Over J. Tobey’s Store Nearly opposite the Court House.  D. B. Ventres, would take this opportunity to inform his old vfriends and patrons, and the public generally, that he has taken the above named Rooms, formerly occupied by N. D. Hall, newly fitted them up, and has everything arranged for taking First Class Pictures.  He is now prepared to take all kinds of pictures, such as Crayon, Vignette, Cameo Heads, also Stereoscopes, which are a most wonderful production of the art, and have never before been taken in this place.

He pays particular attention to taking pictures of Children, also of sick or deceased persons at their residences.  Copying from old Pictures or paintings done in a superior manner.  Miniatures inserted in Pins and Lockets, from common size down to the smallest.

He has on hand a large assortment of Frames and Cases, both plain and Fancy, which will be sold at the lowest Cash prices.

Ladies and Gentlemen are invited to call and examine specimens, among which may be found Stereoscopes, and one or two new styles of Tinting. and Coloring.

Perfect satisfaction given, or no charge.

Hall, E. C.

1847                19 Market Square, Portland, Maine.

1849                Water Street, Over D. Alden & Co’s Hat and Cap Store, Augusta, Maine.

1852                Address and Location Unknown.

1847 June 15.  Portland Weekly Advertiser.  (Portland, Maine.) June 15, 1847, Vol. XLIX, No. 23, P. 3.

Daguerreotype Miniatures.  Rooms are now open at No. 19, Market Square, opposite City Hall, where miniatures will be taken in the neatest manner, at any hour in the day from 8 A. M. to 5 P. M., without regard to weather.

Citizens or Strangers visiting our rooms, can have Miniatures taken in this unique style, and well set in Gold Lockets, Pins, Rings, Bracelets, Cases, Frames, &c. in a few moments.

All pains will be taken to finish Pictures in the highest perfection of the Art, and no persons will be expected to take them unless they are perfectly satisfactory to themselves and friends.

Instruction will be given in the Art: and the process explained from the first taking of the plate to the last finish of the picture.  E. C. Hall & Co.  Portland, April 27, 1847.

1849 May 31.  Maine Farmer.  (Augusta, Maine.)  May 31, 1849, Vol. XVII, No. 22, P. 3.

Daguerreotype Rooms, Over D. Alden & Co’s Hat and Cap Store, Water Street, Augusta, Maine.  The subscribers would respectfully inform the people of Augusta and vicinity, that they have had long experience in their business, and have within the last six months made a simple discovery and decided improvements, which is highly pleasing to the operator and subject.  By this new beautifier and accelerating chemical agent, with our top-light and large apparatus, miniatures will be executed in the surprising short space of from 3 to 15 seconds, bearing any tone, from deep, rich shade, to the freshness of life.  Those having poor and spotted Daguerreotypes, taken by the old process, can exchange them for finished ones, (warranted not to change,) for the very low price of $1.  Ladies and Gentlemen are invited to call and judge for themselves.  Rooms open from 7 A. M. to 6 P. M.

Instruction given in the Art, with all the late improvements.  Apparatus of all kinds for sale, and stock of the best quality.  E. C. Hall & Co.

Advertisement was recorded between May 31 to December 26, 1849.

1852 October 13.  The Granite Farmer.  (Manchester, New Hampshire.)  October 13, 1852, Vol. III, No. 41, P. 6 & 7.

Awards of Committees…

Fancy And Useful Articles…

S. B. Richardson, Nashua, Daguerreotypes, Medal.

F. A. Brown, Manchester, Daguerreotypes, Diploma.

E. C. Hall, [Unknown], Daguerreotypes, Diploma.

Hall, Alfred

1851                2 Museum Building, Manchester, New Hampshire.[1]

1853-1856       Essex Street, 8 City Block, Lawrence, Massachusetts.1

1857-1861       142 Essex Street, Lawrence, Massachusetts.1

1862                142 Essex Street, Lawrence, Massachusetts.

1865                Address Unknown, Lawrence, Massachusetts.1

1851 September 23.  Manchester Daily Mirror.  (Manchester, New Hampshire.)  September 23, 1851, Vol. 2, No. 283, P. 2.

Money Found.  On Sunday the 21st day of September.  The owner can have the same by calling on Alfred Hall, at Brown’s Daguerreotype Rooms—proving property, and paying for this notice.

Advertisement ran from September 23 to 26, 1851.

1859 December 17.  Lawrence American.  (Lawrence, Massachusetts.)  December 17, 1859, Vol. 5, No. 11, P. 4.

Hall’s Gallery of Art, 142 Essex street…Lawrence (Formerly 8, City Block.)

Photographs, Daguerreotypes, Ambrotypes, and all other styles of Pictures made in the most perfect manner Old pictures copied (even those that are quite imperfect) to a larger size, and colored in a style to render them the most life-like and pleasing.

Photographs of Clergymen, and Teachers, College and School Classes and in fact any person in want of a considerable number, will be furnished at extremely Low Prices.  The proprietor is prepared to go to any part of the country and take pictures of Classes, Military or Fire Companies, Views of Buildings &c.

Remember the place, Hall’s, 142, Essex street, Lawrence.

1861 July 6.  Lawrence American.  (Lawrence, Massachusetts.)  July 6, 1861, Vol. VI, No. 40, Whole No. 300, P. 3.

Get Your Photograph Taken.  Twenty-four for One Dollar!  Twenty-five cents for each subsequent Dozen!

Just the thing to send in letters, for visiting cards, or exchange with shop or schoolmates, &c. &c.

Hall, 142 Essex Street, Lawrence, Has an arrangement by which Photographs can be made with such rapidity, that he can furnish them at the above price.

Ambrotypes and Melainotypes taken very cheap.

Photographs of all kinds taken, and finished in India Ink, or colored in Water, Oil or Pastel, on the Most Reasonable terms.

A large assortment of French and American Frames, Oval and Square, Gilt and Black, constantly on hand, for sale cheaper than can be bought at any other place.

Halls, 142 Essex Street.  [292][2]

Advertisement was recorded thirty five times between July 6, 1861 to December 27, 1862.


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

[2] Whole number for start of advertrisement.