Category Archives: Stereoviews

Collins, George W.

1850-1853       Rooms in Stadler & Rupert’s Building, Urbana, Ohio.

1853-1855       Weaver & Brothers Building, East side of Public Square, Urbana, Ohio.

1859-1860       Weaver’s Building, East side of Public Square, Urbana, Ohio.[1]

1845 April 15.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  April 15, 1845, Vol. 7, No. 52, Whole No. 364, P. 3.

G. W. Collins, Portrait Painter, Rooms on the corner of Main and Market Streets, Urbana, Ohio,

1846 April 7.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  April 7, 1846, Vol. 8, No. 51, Whole No. 415, P. 3.

Portrait Painting.  Mr. Saxton:—Your townsman, Mr. G. W. Collins, has, for a short time, been engaged in Portrait Painting in our village, to, I believe, the general satisfaction of all who employed him.—His likenesses are excellent, giving clearly the delineation of the features, and a full expression of the countenance.  Some of his paintings drawn here are almost true as life.  The painting is neatly executed, and performed with an expert and masterly hand.  Mr. Collins, we believe, is destined to become a proficient in his profession, and is worthy the patronage of an intelligent and tasteful community.  He is not merely an artist, but nature has bestowed bountifully upon him the requisite facilities for a limner.  Genius should be encouraged in the ornamental and beautiful as well as in the useful arts. 

Yours, &c., Jas. W. Hamilton. East Liberty, O.

1850 December 6.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  December 6, 1850, Vol. 13, No. 34, Whole No. 658, P. 2.

G. W. Collins’ Daguerrean Rooms.  G. W. Collins respectfully announces to the citizens of Urban and the public generally, that he has recently fitted up an immense “Northern Light,” especially for Daguerrean purposes, and is prepared to execute pictures in a style of beauty seldom attained, and no where excelled.

Miniatures executed and put up in all the various styles of the art, from the smallest Lockets, Pins, and Finger Rings, to the largest sizes for frames; and taken at such prices as cannot fail to please.  Rooms open at all hours.  Pictures taken every day, with out regard to weather.

Daguerreotype Miniatures, when correctly taken, preserve the features which disease and death destroy in a few years, and which our memories retain but imperfectly, and for a short time are made to abide with us.  Who can tell how much influence a venerable, benevolent parent’s portrait exerts on the family possessing it?  They are, therefore, at all times desirable menentoos (sic.) of absent or deceased friends, but more especially in the event of death, they are above to surviving relatives.  No family should be without them.

Rooms in Stadler & Rupert’s building, up stairs.

1851 May 16.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  May 16, 1851, Vol. 14, No. 5, Whole No. 681, P. 3.

The Daguerrean Art—G. W. Collins.  Messrs. Editors:  It was my pleasure to sit a few evenings ago, for a picture in the Gallery of this gentleman, situated one door west of Stadler’s Clothing Store, up stairs.  At a great expense he has procured, and has now in successful operation, a new Camera, of surpassing beauty and elegance, which far exceeds the old ones so long in use by the professor of this art.  To the eve of the most casual observer, the pictures taken by the two instruments, the contrast is strikingly manifest.  This new machinery works to a charm: while the operations of the old ones, in the opinion of those whose knowledge of them may be relied upon, was in a great measure unsatisfactory and untrue.  The Daguerrean Art, although by many considered of no real value to the public or to individuals, is in my opinion a stride in science, equal to any other of the present age.  No one who possesses a particle of attachment to friends and relations, can fail to appreciate the untold pleasure—though it be a melancholy one—of retracing the features of the loved and lost; and I envy not the man, who for the sake of a small pittance, would deny himself this great after comfort.

It should be gratifying to the pride of our citizens, that one has arisen in our midst, born and raised on the sod of Champaign, whose ambition and genius have led him to anticipate and supply its wants in this valuable Art; and we mistake the spirit of her people, if they do not reward his efforts by a liberal and enlightened patronage.  Mr. Collins is ever on the alert to grasp & apply every improvement in the art, without stopping to compute the cost: his desire is to please: when that is accomplished, he seems to have attained his greatest ambition.  This is the true position of the Artist.  When his mind and heart are engaged, failure is an impossibility.

We believe the public of Urbana, and of Champaign county, will foster the growth and advancement of these praiseworthy efforts on his part, to build up a Gallery of Art in this place, which shall be a credit to himself and his fellow citizens.  B.

1851 May 16.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  May 16, 1851, Vol. 14, No. 5, Whole No. 681, P. 3.

More Light.  Daguerrean Gallery.  G. W. Collins respectfully announces to the citizens of Urbana and the public generally, that he has just received from the City of New York, one of the first class German Cameras, and is now better prepared to take Pictures than before; and to test the matter, he invites Ladies and Gentlemen to call and have their Miniatures taken, and examine his specimens—among which they will find Tom Thumb and Jenny Lind.

Rooms open from 7 o’clock A. M. to 6 P. M.  Miniatures executed and put up in all the varied styles of the art, from the smallest Lockets, Pins and Finger rings, to the largest sizes for frames; at prices ranging from $1.00 upwards, according to size and quality of Cases.  Pictures taken every day, without regard to weather.

Rooms in Stadler & Rupert’s building, up stairs.

Advertisement ran from May 16 to June 20, 1851.

1851 June 27.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  June 27, 1851, Vol. 14, No. 11, Whole No. 687, P. 3.

More Light.  Daguerrean Gallery.  G. W. Collins respectfully announces to the citizens of Urbana and the public generally, that he has just received from the City of New York, one of the first class German Cameras, and is now better prepared to take Pictures than before; and to test the matter, he invites Ladies and Gentlemen to call and have their Miniatures taken, and examine his specimens—among which they will find Tom Thumb and Jenny Lind.

Rooms open from 7 o’clock A. M. to 6 P. M.  Miniatures executed and put up in all the varied styles of the art, from the smallest Lockets, Pins and Finger rings, to the largest sizes for frames; at prices ranging from $1.00 upwards, according to size and quality of Cases.  Pictures taken every day, without regard to weather.

Likenesses of sick or deceased persons taken at short notice.  Painted or Daguerreotype likenesses accurately copied.  He will keep on hand a general assortment of Daguerreotype Stock and Apparatus to supply the trade, and will sell as low as can be had any where in the State; and will also give instructions in this beautiful and fascinating Art, on favorable terms.

Rooms in Stadler & Rupert’s building, up stairs.

Advertisement ran from June 27 to August 15, 1851.

1851 October 10.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  October 10, 1851, Vol. 26, No. 11, Whole No. 701, P. 2.

Campaign County Fair.  Our Annual Agricultural Fair came off on Wednesday and Thursday of this week…

G. W. Collins exhibited some very beautiful specimens of Art in his line.—But, we cannot go into details today.  The Ladies, (God bless them!) were out in full force.

1852 March 26.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  March 26, 1852, Vol. 14, No. 50, Whole No. 724, P. 2.

Daguerreanism. Mr. Editor:—Suffer me to call the attention of the public, and especially the admirers of the fine arts, to the merits of one of our citizens, Mr. G. W. Collins, who is now engaged in taking Daguerreotype Likenesses in our village, as one of the most successful operators that I have had the pleasure of visiting.  I think his pictures will compare favorably with the best pictures taken in any of our large cities.  If any objection at all can be found against them, it would be that he makes his subjects look too much like themselves.  I hope this young artist will meet with all the success his distinguished skill demands.  Mc.

1853 January 7.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  January 7, 1853, Vol. 15, No. 39, Whole No. 765, P. 4.

G. W. Collins.—Daguerreotype Artist, West Main Street, Urban, Ohio.  Persons wishing to get good Likenesses, will please call at G. W. Collin’s Daguerreotype Room, which will be open from 7 o’clock A. M. to 6 P. M.; at which hours the Public generally are invited to call and examine Specimens, whether they desire Pictures or not.  Pictures will be taken from the largest size for frames, down to Lockets, Breastpins and Finger Rings.—Instructions Given in the art, on favorable terms.

Daguerreotype Goods.  Keeps constantly on hand every variety of Daguerreotype Stocks, consisting of Apparatus, Plates, Cases and Chemicals.  For sale low for cash.  May 28. 1852.

1853 January 28.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  January 28, 1853, Vol. 15, No. 42, Whole No. 768, P. 2.

G. W. Collins has fitted up new Daguerrean Rooms in Weaver’s Block, where he is better prepared than ever to take accurate likenesses of the human face.  He has acquired great notoriety as an artist, and those wishing good pictures of themselves or families, would do well to give him a call.  See his notice.

1853 January 28.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  January 28, 1853, Vol. 15, No. 42, Whole No. 768, P. 3.

Removal.  G. W. Collins’ New And Magnificent Daguerrean Gallery, Has just been fitted up with a large sky light, in Weaver & Brothers building, above the Shoe Store.

“Music hath charms;”

But there is nothing which can soothe the rugged paths of affliction more exquisitely than the extraordinary fife Daguerreotypes, taken by G. W. Collins every day, from the largest size for frames, down to the smallest for Breast Pins, Lockets and Finger Rings.

The public are generally invited to call and see his specimens, whether they desire Pictures or not.

The Rooms will be open from 8 a. m. to 5 p. m., at which hours the public are invited to call.

Instructions given in the art on favorable terms.

Daguerreotype Goods.—Keeps constantly on hand, every variety of Daguerreotype Goods, which will be supplied to artists low for cash.

A word to Artists.  No goods will be forwarded, unless the money is inclosed (sic.) with the order.

1853 February 4.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  February 4, 1853, Vol. 15, No. 43, Whole No. 769, P. 2.

Daguerreotype Gallery.  We noticed very briefly in our last week’s issue, (more for want of time and space, than a better reason,) the Daguerrean Gallery of Mr. G. W. Collins.

The room which he now occupies, is a large and commodious one, and furnished in an elegant and tasteful manner.  His facilities, too, for picture-taking are greatly increased, having the combined advantage of both side and sky-lights.

We do not know that we laud too highly the artistic skill of Mr. Collins, by classing him with the first Artists of this “day and age” of the World.  All who have seen his pictures unite in awarding to him this praise; and those of our citizens who desire to—”Secure the shadow ere the substance fades,” Are no longer required to go to cities and larger towns for such.

1853 August 12.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  August 12, 1853, Vol. 16, No. 18, Whole No. 798, P. 2.

Collin’s Daguerrean Rooms are still in full blast.  George’s pictures are hard ti beat; and those who have never visited his Gallery, had better do so and examine his sp3ecimens.  They are exceedingly attractive.  See his card.

1853 August 12.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  August 12, 1853, Vol. 16, No. 18, Whole No. 798, P. 3.

G. W. Collins, Daguerrean Artist, North East Corner of Public Square, Urbana, Ohio.  Apparatus, Plates, Cases, Chemicals, Frames, All sizes, and everything connected with the Daguerrean Art, constantly on hand and for sale, at New York prices.

Instruction Given In The Art.

1853 August 28.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  August 12, 1853, Vol. 16, No. 20, Whole No. 800, P. 2.

Stereoscopic Daguerreotypes.  We are glad to see that our friend Collins, who, by the way, is always up with the improvements of the day, has introduced the Stereoscopic Daguerreotype.  The likeness with this is a likeness—a fac similie of the original.  To those who are not acquainted with the effect of the Stereoscopic, we would say that the picture, instead of being flat, stands out from the plate like a marble statute—in fact, it presents you with a model of yourself.  All who have occasion to have their likenesses taken should examine this method, and our word for it, they’ll have no other.

By the way, we hope our friend Collins will be particularly polite to all the ladies who may visit his rooms, and put himself to a good deal of trouble and expense to accommodate them.  Ladies always require and expect a little extra attention, you know.  “Mattie Lee,” in behalf of herself and other ladies, sent us a note the other day, complaining that Mr. C. did not “soft soap” them enough when they visited his rooms.  He will do well, therefore to give them a little extra attention hereafter, and thus remove all cause of complaint on that score.

1853 October 21.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  October 21, 1853, Vol. 16, No. 28, Whole No. 808, P. 3.

Tuition On The Violin.  Mr. E. Blank, Pupil of Ole Bull, from New York, an accomplished Violinist, is prepared to give lessons to those who desire to play that lovely instrument.  He is able to satisfy all of his qualifications, and learn pupils by a new method, to become good players in half the time required by the old method of teaching. 

Terms $5.00 for 15 lessons, or 50 cents for a single lesson, payable in advance.  He can be found at Collins’ Daguerrean Rooms.

1853 November 18.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  November 18, 1853, Vol. 16, No. 32, Whole No. 812, P. 2.

G. W. Collins’ Daguerrean Gallery, North-Easy corner Public Square, Urbana, Ohio.  Instructions given in the art, and complete apparatus furnished.

1853 December 30.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  December 30, 1853, Vol. 16, No. 38, Whole No. 818, P. 2.

Piano Tuner.  And Teacher on the Violin and Violincello, And Guitar, E. Blank, To Be Found At G. W. Collin’s Daguerrean Rooms, Urbana.

1854 July.  The Photographic And Fine Art Journal.  (New York, New York.)  July 1854, Vol. 7, No. 7, P. 224.

Mr. R. M. Cole, of Peoria. Ill., is one of the most successful operators in the Western country, and is deserving of great praise for his perseverance in attaining to his skill he now exhibits, and is well worthy the support he receives.  Mr. G. W. Collins, of Urbana, Ohio, is also a most excellent artist, and has our warmest wishes for his success.

1854 October 27.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  October 27, 1854, Vol. 17, No. 29, Whole No. 861, P. 3.

G. W. Collins’ Great Western Daguerreotype Rooms & Stock Depot, Urbana, Ohio.  Rooms in Weavers’ Building, North-East corner Public Square, Instructions in the art carefully given.

Advertisement ran from October 27, 1854 to November 30, 1855.

1855 September 14.  Urbana Citizen and Gazette.  (Urbana, Ohio.)  September 14, 1855, Vol. 18, No. 23, Whole No. 907, P. 3.

The Champaign County Fair was the most attractive feature in the passing events of the last week…

And Mrs. Ackerman’s picture gallery made a fine display, as did also Collins’ Daguerreotypes…

List of Premiums Awarded at the sixth Annual Fair of the Champaign Agricultural Society…

Class U.  Miscellaneous Articles…

G. W. Collins, Daguerreotypes, 1st Prem., 2.00

1856 September 24.  Cleveland Morning Leader.  (Cleveland, Ohio.)  September 24, 1856, Vol. 10, No. 204, P. 2.

Pen Jottings Taken On The Fair Ground Yesterday…Fine Arts Hall.  This has been fitted up under the supervision of Mr. Allen Smith, Jr. in the fine taste which characterizes this well known artist, although every thing was not quite arranged.  We think we hazard nothing in saying that a more charming display of artistical good things, has not graced any previous fair.  The oil paintings both on canvas and photographic, were highly creditable to the artists Mr. Smith had his usual variety of finely colored heads, lifelike and beautiful.  Nothing which we could say would add many thing to his well established fame.  The death of the stag from Landseer will bear looking at more than once.  Mr. Ryder exhibits some very fine photographs also colored by Mr. Alonzo Pease which were much admired.  The two finest pictures in the room and those which attracted the most attention were two heads of Fremont, one a photograph by North, colored in oil by Smith, and one by Ryder, colored also in oil by Pease.  (We noticed as singular that although there were some 6 or 7 pictures of Fremont there was none of Buchanan!)  Boisseau also exhibited a number of oil colored Photographs which are much admired.  Daguerreotypes, Photographs, Ambrotypes, etc. were there from North, Ryder, Boisseau, of Cleveland, Bisbee of Columbus, and G. W. Collins of Urbana, Ohio, Spherotypes from Stimpson, also of Cleveland.


[1] Craig’s Daguerreian Registry.

Cobb, J. B.

1859                Address Unknown, Cleveland, Ohio.

1859 April 12.  Cleveland Morning Leader.  (Cleveland, Ohio.)  April 12, 1859, Vol. 13, No. 90, P. 3.

Stereoscopic Views.—Those of our readers who are fortunate enough to have in their house one of the beautiful instruments know as stereoscopes can appreciate any praise and notice of such articles.  The photographs which accompany these instruments seem pictures no longer.  The figures seen in very truth to stand out in as bold relief as flesh and blood could do, and to be tableaux of real life.  Appleton & Co., of New York, have published a great quantity and variety of these stereoscopic pictures, a large assortment of which are for sale by J. R. Cobb & Co.  These represent a great variety of subjects. One set of half a dozen or more capitally illustrated Miss Flora McFlimsy who had “Nothing to wear”—others present statuary, landscapes, negro life, family groups, &c., &c. No pleasanter amusement can be devised for a family taken a stereoscope with a dozen or two pictures. Call at Cobbs and select.

Carroll & Parmelee

1858-1859       14 Main Street, New London, Connecticut.

1859 January 6, 1859.  New London Weekly Chronicle.  (New London, Connecticut.)  January 6, 1859, Vol. XI, No. 526, P. 4.

Stereoscopes.  We have this day received an assortment of Stereoscopes forming one of the greatest Ornaments for the Parlor ever introduced.

Also, a large selection of Stereoscopic Views.  Among which may be found “The Honeymoon,”  “Chatean de St. Cloud,”  “Palace Views,”  “Jardin Exposition,”  “Hotel de Paris,”  St. Oner,” &c. Carroll & Parmelee, 14 Main Street.  aug24.

Carbutt, G. John

1858-1859       Rooms over Pershing’s Drug Store, Michigan Street, Plymouth, Indiana.

1858 April 29.  Marshall County Democrat.  (Plymouth, Indiana.)  April 29, 1858, Vol. 3, No. 23, Whole No. 127, P. 2.

Carbutt’s New Ambrotype & Photograph Side And Sky-Light Gallery, Over Pershing’s Drug Store, Michigan Street, Plymouth, Ind.

The subscriber would respectfully announce to the citizens of Plymouth, Marshall and adjoining counties, that he has fitted up the above Gallery, with the view of permanently locating here; and he takes this opportunity of making known to them that he is prepared to execute likenesses in all the various styles of the art, and in the highest perfection.  Having had a practical experience in the art since its first introduction west of the Mountains, he flatters himself that the merits of his Pictures, and the unequalled facilities at his command for taking them in the shortest possible time of sitting, will induce the public in general to give him a call.  The public are respectfully invited to call and examine specimens and likewise view the magic powers of the Stereoscope. 

N. B.—The Art taught and apparatus furnished, on reasonable terms.  I also make and keep for sale, a superior article of Collodian, which I warrant to keep good for six months; price, $2 per bottle.  Operators, who desire to make fine work, would do well to give it a trial.  C. J. Carbutt, Artist.                       

Advertisement ran from April 29 to July 22, 1858.

1858 April 29.  Marshall County Republican.  (Plymouth, Indiana.)  April 29, 1858, Vol. 3, No. 23, Whole No. 127, P. 2.

Carbutt’s New Ambrotype & Photograph Side and Sky-Light Gallery, Over Pershing & Co.’s. Drug Store, Michigan St., Plymouth, Ind.

The subscriber would respectfully announce to the citizens of Plymouth, Marshall and adjoining counties, that he has fitted up the above Gallery, with the view of permanently locating here, and he takes this opportunity of making known to them, that he is prepared to execute Likenesses in all the various styles of the art, and in the highest perfection.  Having had a practical experience in the Art since its first introduction west of the mountains, he flatters himself that the merits of his pictures, and the unequalled facilities at his command for taking them in the shortest possible time of sitting, will induce the public in general to give him a call.

All work warranted.  Prices range from 50 cents upwards.  The public are invited to call and examine specimens and likewise view the magic powers of the Stereoscope.  C. J. Carbutt, Artist.

N. B.—The Art taught and apparatus furnished, on reasonable terms.  I also make and keep for sale, a superior article of Collodian, which I warrant to keep good for six months; price, $2 per bottle.  Operators, who desire to make fine work, would do well to give it a trial.  Plymouth, Ind.

Advertisement ran from April 29 to July 15, 1858.

1858 May 13.  Marshall County Democrat.  (Plymouth, Indiana.)  May 13, 1858, Vol. 3, No. 25, Whole No. 129, P. 3.

We took occasion, the other day, to drop into the new Photograph and Ambrotype Gallery of Mr. Carbutt; and, for an hour, was highly entertained, looking through the magic stereoscope.  No one can form an idea of the beauty and perfection of these views, until he has examined them.  “Niagara Falls,”  “The Greek Slave,”  “A Wedding Scene,” “Across the Waters,” and a “Palace by Gas Light,” were favorites with us among the collection.  Looking at the view of Niagara, we could see the very moss-covered rock where we once sat and gazed on that King of Wonders, with thoughts and emotions, for whose utterance there is no language.

Mr. Carbutt seems to possess the true spirit of the Artist.  In love with his beautiful Art, he seems desirous of excelling in every branch, and brining to the highest perfection all the latest discoveries and improvements.

He has permanently located among us, and has every facility for doing an extensive and satisfactory business, and we have no doubt but that his expectations in this respect, will be fully realized.

1858 June 10.  Marshall County Democrat.  (Plymouth, Indiana.)  June 10, 1858, Vol. 2, No. 31, P. 3.

Ambrotype Car For Sale; nearly new,—Price $125,—can be seen in Rochester, Ind.

Address or apply to A. J. Hasler, Warsaw, Ind., or to G. J. Carbutt, Plymouth, Ind. 

Advertisement ran from June 10 to 24, 1858.

1858 July 29.  Marshall County Democrat.  (Plymouth, Indiana.)  July 29, 1858, Vol. 3, No. 36, Whole No. 140, P. 2.

Photographs, Ambrotypes, Melainotypes, and Stereographs Taken daily at the Cosmopolitan Gallery, over Pershing’s Drug Store, equal to any taken in the Union.  Call and examine the sublime view of Niagara Falls, The Greek Slave, a Palace by Gas Light, &c., in that wonderful instrument, the Stereoscope.  Stereoscope views of private or public buildings taken, and the stereoscope furnished to order.  Terms as low as can be afforded, and all pictures warranted.  J. Carbutt, Artist.                  

Advertisement ran from July 29, 1858 to May 19, 1859.

1858 September 9.  Marshall County Republican.  (Plymouth, Indiana.)  September 9, 1858, Vol. 2, No. 44, P. 3.

Photographs, Ambrotypes, Melainotypes, and Stereographs Taken Daily At The Cosmopolitan Gallery, over Pershing’s Drug Store, Michigan Street, equal to any taken in the Union.  Call and examine the sublime view of Niagara Falls, The Greek Slave, a Palace by Gas Light, &c., &c., in that wonderful instrument, the Stereoscope. 

Stereoscope views of private or public buildings taken, and the stereoscope furnished to order. 

Terms as low as can be afforded, and all pictures warranted.  J. Carbutt, Artist.  July 29, 1858.

Advertisement ran from September 9, 1858 to April 14, 1859.

1859 March 3.  Marshall County Democrat.  (Plymouth, Indiana.)  March 3, 1859, Vol. 4, No. 14, Whole No. 170, P. 3.

Last Tuesday we stepped into Carbutt’s Ambrotype Gallery, and were struck with surprise and admiration at the many improvements he is making in the art.  He has a photographic likeness of our paternal relative, which only lacks size to make it as ‘natural as life.’  Mr. Carbutt is a good artist, a perfect gentleman, and intends making this the locality for future operations.  We hop all who have any patronage to bestow on artists will extend it to him, for we can assure them that he is in every way worthy.

1859 May 5.  Marshall County Republican.  (Plymouth, Indiana.)  May 5, 1859, Vol. 3, No. 26, P. 3.

Grecian Painting.  This beautiful but simple style of Painting is now being executed in a superior manner by our enterprising artist Carbutt, at his Photograph Gallery.  Our Citizens no longer have an excuse for not decorating their rooms with Paintings or Engravings, as both can be procured at such a trifling cost as to place them within the reach of all.  A call at Mr. C.’s Rooms will convince every one of this fact.  He has a list of over two hundred Engravings, any of which he will furnish at New York prices.  Gilt Frames of any size made to order.

Advertisement ran from May 5 to 19, 1859.

1859 May 5.  Marshall County Republican.  (Plymouth, Indiana.)  May 5, 1859, Vol. 3, No. 26, P. 3.

Carbutt has a number of new and splendid Engravings, Photographs and Paintings hanging up around his gallery, among the rest a life size likeness of Daniel Webster.  Step in and examine his pictures, and if you conclude to purchase one for the gratification of your wife and children, you will never be sorry for it.

1859 August 11.  Marshall County Republican.  (Plymouth, Indiana.)  August 11, 1859, Vol. 3, No. 40, P. 3.

That Excelsior Photographist—And Ambrotypist, John Carbutt, has recently re-arranged his fine picture gallery and made great additions thereto.

In addition to his legitimate business, sun-painting, Mr. C. does and is prepared to do all sorts of Italian, Grecian and other kinds of oil paintings.—In his rooms are already many specimens of his skill in this line—such as the “Happy Family,” “Niagara Falls,” &c., &c., all beautifully executed.  Besides this he has a fine collection of lithographs. Engravings and portraits, comprising landscapes, splendid views of notable places, likenesses of eminent characters, and such other pictures as are usually found in first class country galleries.

We think Mr. Carbut excels as a photographer, and in all his works displays the skill of a genuine artist.  A visit to his gallery will repay many times its cost.

1859 November 17.  Marshall County Democrat.  (Plymouth, Indiana.)  November 17, 1859, New Series Vol. 1, No. 14, Whole No. 206, P. 3.

Installation of Officers of the Morning Star Lodge No. 6.1.O.G.T. for the present term, took place last Saturday evening…W. S.     J. Carbutt….


UNION PACIFIC RAILROAD
EXCURSION TO THE 100th
MERIDIAN OCT. 1866
Photographed by John Carbutt, Chicago
Under the auspices of the Union Pacific
Railroad Company

198. Landing of the Union Pacific Excursion at Omaha (1)
199. Landing of the Union Pacific Excursion at Omaha (2)
200. Steamer Denver and Colorado UPRR
201. Group of Excursts. at Camp No. 1. Columbus, Neb.
202. Camp of Pawnee Indians on the Platte Valley
203. Group of Mounted Pawnee Warriors
204. Group of Mounted Pawnee Warriors & Palace Car of UPRR
205. The Excursion train going West
206. Excur. Party 275 ms. W. of Omaha, Oct. 24, ’66
207. Excur. party 275 ms. W. of Omaha, Oct. 24, ’66 (2)
208. Westward. the Monarch Capital makes its way
209. Laying the rails of the UPRR ‑two miles a day
210. The Elkhorn Club on the banks of the Platte
211. The Platte River opposite Platte City The Platte River and Kinsley’s Brigade
213. Commissioners and Directors of the UPRR
214. View of Camp #2 from Prospect Hill215. Headquarters Platte City, Oct. 25, 1866
216. Representatives of the Press with the Excursion
217. The Boys that made us Comfortable, all Hail
218. The Train at the 100th Mer. returning from the West
219. The Directors of the UPRR at the 100th Mer.
220. Group of distin. guests of UPRR at 100th Mer. (1)
221. Group of distinguished guests of Up. at 100th Mer. (2)
222. Burnetizing Works of the UPRR at Omaha
223. Burnetizing Works or the UPRR at Omaha (2)
224. T. C. Durant Esq. and Heads of Depts. UPRR
225. Engine House & Workshops of UPRR at Omaha
226. S & E Front U. P. Railroad Works at Omaha
227. N & E front UPRR Works, Omaha
228. UPRR Works and Depot, Omaha
229. N & W front UPRR Works, Omaha
230. View of Omaha N. T. from Capitol Hill (1)
231. View of Omaha, N. T. from Capitol Hill (2)
232. Herndon House, Omaha, N. T.
233. Construction Train of the UPRR

Total of 36 views


Note:

John Carbutt’s “Union Pacific Railroad Excursion to the 100th Meridian” series was published in 1866. The series on yellow mounts includes excellent railroad views plus views of steamboats, Indians, Nebraska territory and famous personalities.  The Union Pacific reached 247 miles west of Omaha by October, 1867.  To promote the progress and assure stockholders of their investment, the U.P.R.R. directors invited leading businessmen and political leaders on an excursion to the wilderness.  John Carbutt, the noted Chicago photographer, was hired to make a visual record of the event.  More than 200 men and their wives made the trip in the luxury Palace cars of the U.P.R.R.

Bridge, Erastus T.

1853-1855       3 City Block, Lawrence, Massachusetts.[1]

1857                166 Essex Street, Lawrence, Massachusetts.1

1859                Address Unknown, Lawrence, Massachusetts.1

1855 February 17.  Andover Advertiser.  (Andover, Massachusetts.) P. 3. 

Bridge’s Daguerreotype Gallery, No. 3 City Block, Essex Street, Lawrence.

Let the public still keep in mind, that this is the Establishment where they are sure to get the Best Daguerreotypes, the Best Materials, and all the Latest Improvements of the day; and that the proprietor has and will spare no pains to merit that generous favor which the public is daily bestowing on him.

Daguerreotypes On Silver, Glass, Paper, and Copper, and all the new styles embracing that beautiful picture which he has lately introduced, called the Steroscope, or Daguerreotypes with a lens that produces the effect of statuary, or rather, life itself; and which is admitted to excel everything of the Daguerreotype kind ever offered.

The nature of his light and instruments (and there are no better in the State) enables him to execute all kinds of work with rapidity and neatness.

Particular attention to Grouping and Children.  All are invited to call, whether in want or not.  Don’t forget the place, No. 3 City Block, Essex Street, Lawrence.  Erastus Bridge.  Feb. 10.


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

Bowers, W. H.

N. D.               Address Unknown, Biddeford, Maine.

1850                Dr. Bacon’s Building, Factory Island, Saco, Maine.

1852-1854       6 Central Block, Biddeford, Maine.

1850 January 22.  Maine Democrat.  (Saco, Maine.)  January 22, 1850, Vol. XXIII, No. 26, P. 3.

Miniatures!  Miniatures!  Macomber & Bowers Would announce to the Ladies and Gentlemen of Saco and Biddeford, that having sold out their Rooms in Biddeford, they may be found at the old stand, Dr. Bacon’s Building, Factory Island, Saco.

Where they will be happy to wait upon all that are in want of Likenesses of themselves or friends.  They have jest remodeled their Rooms, and enlarged and improved the arrangement of their light.

By the new arrangement of Light, they are enabled to obviate an objection which some have had to their Pictures heretofore, viz;—too dark a shade under the chin.  Their Light being a combination of Side and Top Light, they are enabled to produce pictures with as little shade as with any Side Light, while they have all the beauty and development produced by Top Light.

Ladies and Gentlemen are invited to call and see their new Rooms, where they must be convinced that we now have much the best chance for producing good Daguerreotypes of any in the place.  And they would respectfully suggest whether, with their superior advantages, and long experience in the business, (having been in the business three times as long as any other operator in the place,) they would not be as likely, at least, to get as good, if not a better, picture, than at any other place; and especially, as they promise that their prices shall be as low as where the poorest productions are obtained.  Saco, January 15, 1850.

Advertisement ran on January 22 & 29, 1850.

1852 February 3.  Maine Democrat.  (Saco, Maine.)  February 3, 1852, Vol. XXIII, No. 26, P. 3.

New And Splendid Daguerrian Rooms, Central Block, Biddeford.  McKenney & Bowers Respectfully announce to the public that they have just fitted up (without regard to cost) a Daguerrian Establishment inferior to none in New England.

With the Largest and best arranged Light of any Daguerrian Room in the State, and having procured an Instrument of the Largest Size, They are prepared to execute pictures Twice As Large as any hitherto made in Biddeford or Saco.

By means of this large and powerful Instrument, and with the aid of their immense light, they can execute Family Groups of any number, in a superb manner, on small or the largest sized plates.  In these days of mortality, heads of families should secure the likeness of every member of their family circle before it shall be broken by the rude hand of death.

McKenney & Bowers can now make pictures far superior to those of any other establishment in York County, and they throw their rooms open for public inspection and criticism, willing that a discerning public should judge whether they speak in a manner too boasting or to confident.  Their long experience in the Daguerrian Art, and their new and not to be surpassed arrangements render it reasonable that they should excel, and they assure those who patronize them that they shall not leave their rooms dissatisfied with pictures or prices demanded.

Grateful for the past liberal patronage bestowed upon them, and more grateful for the many expressions of approval they have received, they respectfully invite a continuance of that patronage, as their whole object will be to please their customers.  E. H. McKenney, W. H. Bowers.  No. 6 Central Block.  Biddeford, Jan. 28, 1852.

Advertisement ran from February 3 to April 27, 1852.

1852 May 11.  Maine Democrat.  (Saco, Maine.)  May 11, 1852, Vol. XXIII, No. 40, P. 3.

Daguerrian Rooms, Central Block, Biddeford.  McKenney & Bowers have the best arranged Daguerrian Establishment in the State, and with their Apparatus can take pictures of the largest size.  They are now executing exceedingly Fine Likenesses in Groups or Singly, And if better ones can be produced than they take, theirs will be given gratis.  The public are invited to call and examine for themselves.  Biddeford, April 1852.

Advertisement ran from May 11, 1852 to March 29, 1853.

1853 March 29.  Maine Democrat.  (Saco, Maine.)  March 29, 1853, Vol. XXIV, No. 34, P. 3.

Something New!  McKenney & Bowers, Have obtained a quick instrument with which they can take Miniatures in much less time than ever before.  They would say to those having Children of which they would like to obtain Daguerreotypes, that they are now prepared to take them With little or no Difficulty.

They can also take perfect likenesses of the Sick at their residence with this instrument, it being so constructed as not to require so much light as those of any other kind.  Copying of all kinds done to perfection.

McKenney & Bowers take this opportunity to return their thanks to their friends and patrons for their liberal patronage, and respectfully solicit a continuance of the same.  Having a better light, larger and better instruments than can be found at any other establishment in this vicinity, they are able to make better Daguerreotypes.  All are invited to call whether they wish for Miniatures or not, and examine our specimens and facilities for making them and judge for themselves.  McKenney & Bowers, No. 6, Central Block, Biddeford, Me.

N. B.—E. H. McKenney, who was established in Biddeford, long before any of hos neighbor artists took a Miniature in this vicinity, would have all understand that he is not connected with any other Saloon or other Daguerreian establishment in Saco or Biddeford, except the old Gallery in Central Block, where he may be found with additions and improvements.

Advertisement ran from March 29 to November 1, 1853.

1852 October 12.  Maine Democrat.  (Saco, Maine.)  October 12, 1852, Vol. XXIV, No. 10, P. 2.

Cattle Show And Fair.  The annual Cattle Show and Fsir of the York County Agricultural Society took place in this town last Wednesday and Thursday…

On Manufactures.  Your committee having attended to the duties assigned, ask leave to report:…

E. J. Cole, Saco, Daguerreotypes, diploma and .50.

McKenney & Bowers, Biddeford, do.  Diploma.

1853 November 1.  Maine Democrat.  (Saco, Maine.)  November 1, 1853, Vol. XXV, No. 13, P. 3.

McKenny & Bowers Daguerreotypes, No. 6 Central Block, Biddeford.  Rooms open daily for the reception of visitors.  Pictures taken of all sizes, and in any style desired, and warranted equal to the Best.

We have the largest and best collection of specimens to be found in this vicinity.  An examination of which will well pay for a visit to our Rooms.  Also, the best collection of Gold Lockets and Fancy Cases.

Please call and examine specimens.  Don’t mistake the place McKenney & Bowers.

N. B.  It is with reluctance that we refer to the advertisement of a brother artist, but justice to ourselves prompt us to say, that the late County Fair the Highest Premium was awarded to our Daguerreotypes, and not to Mr. Cole’s as his advertisement leads people to suppose. 

Advertisement ran from November 1, 1853 to April 4, 1854.

1854 February 17.  The Union and Eastern Journal.  (Biddeford, Maine.)  February 17, 1854, Vol. X, No. 7, P. 3.

McKenney & Bowers, Daguerreotypes!  No. 6 Central Block, Biddeford. Rooms open daily for the reception of visitors.  Pictures taken in all sizes and any style desired.  We have the largest and best collection of specimens to be seen in this vicinity.  Also, the best assortment of Gold Lockets and Fancy Cases, at the lowest prices. E. H. McKenney, W. T. Bowers.

Please call and examine specimens.  Don’t mistake the place.

Advertisement ran from February 17 to April 14, 1854.

1854 April 11.  Maine Democrat.  (Saco, Maine.)  April 11, 1854, Vol. XXV, No. 36, P. 3.

Stereoscopic Pictures!  McKenney & Bowers, No. 6, Central Block, Biddeford, Took and exhibited the first Stereoscopic Pictures that were taken in “York County,” And the are now informed that they are ready to furnish the above style of pictures, executed in the most perfect manner.

By the Stereoscopic two pictures of the same person are seen as one, appearing as large as life, and if properly taken are truly beautiful, almost cheating the beholder into the belief that he gazes upon a “Thing Of Life,” instead of a Picture.

Daguerreotypes, –Of All—Styles & Sizes, Taken in the most perfect manner.

Fine Gold Lockets!  Buy your Lockets of McKenney & Bowers if you want a better article than you can get for the same money at any other place.

Fancy Cases and Frames of every Description.  Call And See!  Call And See!

Advertisement ran from April 11 to May 9, 1854.

1854 April 14.  The Union and Eastern Journal.  (Biddeford, Maine.)  April 14, 1854, Vol. X, No. 15, P. 3.

Stereoscopic Pictures!!  McKenney & Bowers, No. 6 Central Block, Biddeford, Took And Exhibited The First Stereoscopic Picture!  That were taken in “Your County,” and the public are now informed that they are ready to furnish the above style of pictures, executed in the most perfect manner.

By the Stereoscope two pictures of the same person are seen as one, appearing as large as life; and if properly taken are truly beautiful, almost cheating the beholder into the belief that he gazes upon a “thing of Life,” instead of a picture.

Daguerreotypes Of All Styles And Sizes, Taken In The Most Perfect Manner, Fine Gold Lockets.

Buy your Lockets of McKenney & Bowers, if you want a better article than you can get for the same money at any other place.

Fancy Cases And Frames, Of Every Description.  Call And See!  Call and See!!

Advertisement ran from April 14, to May 5, 1854.

Beckers, Alexander

1845-1850       201 Broadway, New York, New York.

1852                201 Broadway, New York, New York.

1855-1856       264 Broadway, New York, New York.

18571861        411 Broadway, New York, New York.

1845 April 7.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  April 7, 1845, Vol. XI, No. 96, Whole No. 4058, P. 3.

Voigtaender’s Daguerreotype Apparatus.  Arrangements recently made with their brother-in-law, Mr. Voigtlaender, Vienna, enable the subscribers to sell those Apparatus at reduced prices, viz:–

Largest size Apparatus, with three inch lenses for full size plates, at $145.

Medium size Apparatus, with two inch lenses for half size plates, at $78.

Small size Apparatus, with one-and-a-half inch lens for quarter size plates, at $50.

Gentlemen sending remittances in accordance with the above prices, may depend upon receiving the genuine Voigtlaender Apparatus, and not a worthless imitation article, they having procured the sole agency for the United States.

Plates and Chemicals, of their own importation, as well as all other articles connected with their art, for sale at lowest market price.  Philadelphia Exchange.  W. A. F. Langenheim.

Referring to the above advertisement, the subscribers inform the Daguerrean Artists in general that the above Apparatus and other materials can be procured to the stated prices, at their Daguerrean Atelier, No. 201 Broadway, New York.  Langenheim & Beckers.      

Advertisement ran from April 7 to May 3, 1845.

1845 May 13.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  May 13, 1845, Vol. XI, No. 131, Whole No. 4093, P. 3.

Voigtaender’s Daguerreotype Apparatus.  Arrangements recently made with their brother-in-law, Mr. Voigtlaender, Vienna, enable the subscribers to sell those Apparatus at reduced prices, viz:–

Largest size Apparatus, with three inch lenses for full size plates, at $145.

Medium size Apparatus, with two inch lenses for half size plates, at $78.

Small size Apparatus, with one-and-a-half inch lens for quarter size plates, at $50.

Gentlemen sending remittances in accordance with the above prices, may depend upon receiving the genuine Voigtlaender Apparatus, and not a worthless imitation article, they having procured the sole agency for the United States.

Plates and Chemicals, of their own importation, as well as all other articles connected with their art, for sale at lowest market price.  Philadelphia Exchange.  W. A. F. Langenheim.

Referring to the above advertisement, the subscribers inform the Daguerrean Artists in general that the above Apparatus and other materials can be procured to the stated prices, at their Daguerrean Atelier, No. 201 Broadway, New York.  Langenheim & Beckers.      

Advertisement ran from May 13, to June 27, 1845.

1845 July 3.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  July 3, 1845, Vol. XI, No. 181, Whole No. 4043, P. 3.

Voigtlaender’s Daguerreotype Apparatus.  Arrangements recently made with their brother-in-law, Mr. Voigtlaender, Vienna, enable the subscribers to sell those Apparatus at reduced prices, viz:–

Largest size Apparatus, with three inch lenses for full size plates, at $145.

Medium size Apparatus, with two inch lenses for half size plates, at $78.

Small size Apparatus, with one-and-a-half inch lens for quarter size plates, at $50.

Gentlemen sending remittances in accordance with the above prices, may depend upon receiving the genuine Voigtlaender Apparatus, and not a worthless imitation article, they having procured the sole agency for the United States.

Plates and Chemicals, of their own importation, as well as all other articles connected with their art, for sale at lowest market price.  Philadelphia Exchange.  W. A. F. Langenheim.

Referring to the above advertisement, the subscribers inform the Daguerrean Artists in general that the above Apparatus and other materials can be procured to the stated prices, at their Daguerrean Atelier, No. 201 Broadway, New York.  Langenheim & Beckers.      

Advertisement ran from July 3 to August 27, 1845.

1845 October 5.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  October 5, 1845, Vol. XI, No. 254, Whole No. 4136, P. 3.

Daguerreotype General Furnishing Establishment And Agency For The Sale Of Voigtlaender’s Apparatus.  Besides a new supply of the above Apparatus, the subscribers have received best Plates, Chemicals and Polishing substances, and the newest improvements in the Art.  Instructions given in the Art, and orders from every part of the country promptly attended to, by addressing (post-paid) to W. & F. Langenheim, Philadelphia Exchange.  Langenheim & Beckers, New York, 201 Broadway.                                                                                          

Advertisement ran from October 5 to January 5, 1856.

1845 October 30.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  October 30, 1845, Vol. XI, No. 279, Whole No. 4151, P. 3.

Improvement In Daguerreotype.  By a Mathematically Correct Mirror the subscribers are now Producing Portraits without reversing the image, showing the parting of hair, watch chains, finger rings, &c., precisely as they are worn; but what is more important their portraits cannot fail to be in every respect correct likenesses, whereas, in the usual mode of Daguerreotyping it is impossible to obtain a perfectly correct portrait of any one, they being reversed.

N. B.—Our pictures, taken with this instrument, were awarded a Silver Medal by the American Institute, at its late fair.  Langenheim & Beckers, 201 Broadway. 

The only agents in the United States for Voigtlaindes Instruments, are W. & F. Langenheim, Philadelphia, and Langenheim & Beckers, New York.             

Advertisement ran from October 30 to November 9, 1845.

1846 January 10.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  January 10, 1846, Vol. XII, No. 9, Whole No. 4222, P. 3.

Daguerreotype Several Furnishing Establishments and Sole Agency for the sale of Voigtlaender’s Apparatus. 

The genuine Voigtlaender Apparatus, also the best plates, Chemicals, Polishing Materials and Morocco Cases, &c., &c. may be procured at the subscribers’, wholesale and retail, by addressing (post paid) to W. & F. Langenheim, Exchange, Philadelphia, or Langenheim & Beckers, 201 Broadway, N. Y.

The following gentlemen have agreed to act as Agents for the sale of the genuine Voigtlaender Apparatus:–

Messrs. Litch & Whipple, Boston, Mass.

Mr. James L. Lyon, Richmond, Va.

Mr. S. Broadbent, Columbia, S. C.

Mr. James P. Perry, Charleston, S. C.

Mr. S. Noessel, New Orleans.

Messrs. Johnson & Jacobs, New Orleans.

W. & F. Langenheim, Exchange, Philadelphia.                                

Advertisement ran from January 10 to February 19, 1846.

1846 April 5.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  April 5, 1846, Vol. XII, No. 94, Whole No. 4307, P. 3.

Langenheim & Beckers, Daguerreotypers, 201 Broadway, Below Fulton Street, have enlarged their Atelier, and are now provided with the best kind of light—the style and quality of Pictures they produce with it are like those made at the Exchange in Philadelphia, by W. T. Langenheim, their partners.

Their new mode of deadening the background of Pictures, by sundry permanent colors, is now patented, and gives such beauty of effect to Daguerreotypes, as to be for the public very inviting, at least to examine specimens of this art.

Langenheim & Beckers, Agents for Voigtlaender & Sohn’s German Cameras and L. Beckers, Daguerreotype Chemicals, &c.

Advertisement ran from April 5 to June 13, 1856.

1846 June 25.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  June 25, 1846, Vol. XII, No. 175, Whole No. 4398, P. 3.

Daguerreotype General Furnishing Establishment And Sole Agency for the Sale of Voigtlaender’s Apparatus, Philadelphia, Exchange Rooms 26 & 27.

The Subscribers have just received a new supply of the above Apparatus, of all sizes, and warrant them to be genuine Voigtlaender Apparatus.  They also have on hand best French Plates, Chemicals, Polishing Substances, and every other article used in this art.

Orders from any part of the Union, South America and the West Indies, shall be promptly attended to when accompanied with remittances, address (post paid) to W. & F. Langenheim, Philadelphia, or to Langenheim & Beckers, New York, 201 Broadway.                         

Advertisement ran from June 25 to July 2, 1846.

1847 January 6.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  January 6, 1847, Vol. XII, No. 5, Whole No. 4602, P. 3.

Agency For The Sale Of Voigtlaender’s Daguerreotype Apparatus.  A New supply of the different sizes of the above apparatus, just received.  W. & F. Langenheim, Philadelphia; or Langenheim & Beckers, 201 Broadway, New York.                                                                 

Advertisement ran from January 6 to February 11, 1847.

1847 April 7.  Delaware Gazette.  (Delhi, New York.)  April 7, 1847, Vol. XXIII, No. 26, P. 3.

Daguerrian Atelier.  Langenheim & Beckers, No. 201 Broadway, two doors from Franklin House, New York, sole agency for the sale of Vorgslander’s Daguerreotype Instruments and L. Beckers’ Chemicals.

Advertisement ran on April 7 & 14, 1847.

1847 November 24.  The New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  November 24, 1847, Vol. XIII, No. 322, Whole No. 4919, P. 3.

Voightlaender’s Quick Daguerreotype Instruments, with four times intenser light; lenses of three inches and a quarter diameter, to work on medium plates, for $140.  At Langenheim & Becker, 201 Broadway.  Camera Box extra $5.                                                                  

Advertisement ran from November 24 to December 3, 1847.

1849 April 24.  New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  April 24, 1849, Whole No. 5436, P. 5.

Daguerreotypes Of Children Of Any Age are taken at Langenheim & Beckers’, 201 Broadway, instantaneously and without difficulty.

1849 May 1.  New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  May 1, 1849, Whole No. 5443, P. 5.

Daguerreotypes Of Children Of Any Age, taken at Langenheim & Becker’s. 201 Broadway, instantaneously, and without trouble, from 11 o’clock, A. M. until 3 o’clock, P. M.

1849 June 15.  New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  June 15, 1849, Whole No. 5483, P. 3.

Voigtlaender’s Daguerreotype Instruments, with improved arrangements, for sale at the agency of Langenheim & Beckers, 201 Broadway, above Earle’s carpet store.

1849 September 25.  New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  September 25, 1849, Whole No. 5589, P. 3.

Dissolution.—The Firm Of Langenheim & Beckers is this day dissolved by mutual consent.  The business of the concern will be settled by A. Beckers.  W. & F. Langenheim.  A. Beckers.

We have conferred the Agency for the sale of Voigtlaender’s Optical Instruments on Mr. E. White, 217 Broadway.  W. & F. Langenheim.  Alex. Beckers will continue the Daguerreotype business, with all the facilities and instruments as before, at 201 Broadway; above T. Earle’s Carpet Store.

1849 December 18.  New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  December 18, 1849, Whole No. 5673, P. 2.

Beckers & Piard, Daguerrean Artists, may be found at 201 Broadway.  Alexander Beckers, Late firm, Langenheim & Beckers.  Victor Piard, Late with Anthony, Clark & Co.

Advertisement ran on December 18 & 25, 1849.

1850 April 23.  New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  April 23, 1850, Whole No. 5798, P. 2.

Important to Daguerrean Artists.  To Mr. Victor Bishop, No. 23 Maiden lane, N. Y.

Dear Sir—We cheerfully testify that we have used for some time Louis L. Bishop’s plates, and that they are decidedly superior to all others, either imported or manufactured here.  Beckers & Piard, 201 Broadway.

Those plates are marked in full with the name of Louis L. Bishop, and are for sale only at Victor Bishop’s, No. 23 Maiden Lane.

Advertisement ran from April 23 to 30, 1850.

1852 December 14.  New York Herald.  (New York, New York.)  December 14, 1852, Whole No. 7348, P. 4.

The Great Invention of Daguerreotypes.—Now is the time for persons to make their Christmas and New Years gifts, and there is nothing prettier, or more appropriate than a daguerreotype.  Of course, you want one the beauty and perfection of the great new discovery, by which persons are taken with the speculum, without being reversed , in actual position.  Call, them, at the only place to get an elegant daguerreotype picture.  Beckers & Piard, 201 Broadway.

1852 December 30.  New York Daily Tribune.  (New York, New York.)  December 30, 1852, Vol. XII, No. 3652, P. 7.

New Years Gift.—A new and elegant style of Daguerreotypes is taken at Beckers & Piard’s, No. 201 Broadway, by speculum instruments, avoiding reversion of the picture—a fault so detrimental to all other Daguerreotypes—and children are taken by their treble achromatic instrument instantaneously.

1855 December 22.  New York Daily Tribune.  (New York, New York.)  December 22, 1855, Vol. XV, No. 4579, P. 8.

Handsome Ladies!—Pictures Taken Gratis!—The time fixed for the opening of Barnum’s Gallery Of Beauty has been extended for a short period $20,000 will be expended in Premiums to the 100 handsomest Ladies and for painting their portraits.  Highest prize $1,000.  For particulars see circulars at the Museum.  Daguerreotypes for this Gallery will be taken free of all expense to the sitter, if application be made to them immediately, by all the principal artists in the United States, including the following superior Daguerreotypist in the City of New York.

J. Gurney, No. 489 Broadway; M. M. Lawrence, No. 831 Broadway; S. Root, No. 363 Broadway;  Meade Brothers, No. 233 Broadway; R. Anson, No. 589 Broadway; Beckers & Piard, No. 264 Broadway; M. H. Kimball, No. 407 Broadway; J. W. Thompson, No. 315 Broadway, and 182 Fulton-st, Brooklyn; M. Kerston, No. 421 Broadway, cor. of canal; P. Welling, Cor. of Bleecker and Carmine-sts; P. G. Clark, No. 156 Bowery; Jullus Brill, No. 204 Chatham-st; R. A. Lewis, No. 142 Chatham Square.

1856 January 1.  Photographic and fine Arts Journal.  (New York, New York.)  January 1, 1856, Vol. IX, No. 1, P. 19.

In an article entitled the Photographic Galleries of America.  Number One, New York. The author visited 69 Galleries in New York City.

Beckers & Piard — This is an excellent gallery. I was really pleased with their specimens of stereoscope ambrotypes. These gentlemen excel in this branch of the art. The gallery contains a large collection of stereoscopic views which are worth looking at. Both these gentlemen have been connected with the art ever since its first introduction into this country, and their talents in an artistic point of view, as well as their skill in manipulation, is proverbially of the highest order.

1857 November 7.  New York Daily Tribune.  (New York, New York.)  November 7, 1857, Vol. XVII, No. 5164, P. 6 & 7.

Premiums Awarded at the Twenty ninth Fair of the American Institute…Daguerreotypes, Photographs, Hallotypes, &c.

M. B. Brady, No. 359 Broadway, N. J., for best plain and retouched photographs.

………………………………………………………………………………….Small Gold Medal    

J. Gurney, No. 349 Broadway, N. Y., for plain and retouched Photographs (a Gold Medal having been before awarded)……………………………………………………………………..Diploma

M. M. Lawrence, No. 381 Broadway, N. Y., for the best Daguerreotypes and Miniatures in Oil

…………………………………………………………………………………Large Silver Medal

Meade Brothers, No. 233 Broadway, N. Y., for instantaneous Daguerreotypes.

……………………………………………………………………………………….Bronze Medal

J. Gurney, No. 349 Broadway, N. Y., for the best life-size Photographs in Oil (a Gold Medal having been before awarded)………………………………………………………………Diploma

C. D. Fredricks, Nos. 585 and 587 Broadway, N. Y., for life-size Photographs in Oil (a Gold Medal having been before awarded)………………………………………………………Diploma

C. D. Fredericks, Nos. 585 and 587 Broadway, N. Y., for the best Crayon Photographs and Hallotypes………………………………………………………………………Large Silver Medal

J. Gurney, No. 349 Broadway, N. Y., for Crayon Photographs and Hallotypes.

……………………………………………………………………………………….Bronze Medal

J. Gurney, No. 349 Broadway, N. Y., for the best Photographs in Aquerille.

…………………………………………………………………………………Small Silver Medal

C. D. Fredericks, Nos. 585 and 587 Broadway, N. Y., for Photographs in Aquerille.

……………………………………………………………………………………….Bronze Medal

S. C. Holmes, No. 289 Broadway, N. Y., for the best Photographic Views.

…………………………………………………………………………………Small Silver Medal

B. Hafnagel, No. 413 Broadway, N. Y., for photographic Views and copies of Prints.

……………………………………………………………………………………….Bronze Medal

Phillip E. Bogart & Co., No. 58 Pine street, N. Y., for Photographs by the Solar Camera.

…………………………………………………………………………………………….Diploma

G. N. Bernard, Syracuse, N. Y., for Photographs on Wood.

…………………………………………………………….…………………………Bronze Medal

C. C. Harrison, Fifty-third Street, near East River, N. Y., for Photographic Cameras (a Silver Medal having been before awarded………………………………………………………Diploma

Robert A. Werner, No. 25 East Broadway, N. Y., for an ingeniously planned Diaphragm.

……………………………………………………………………………………………..Diploma

A. Beckers, No. 411 Broadway, N. Y., for a Stereoscopic Panorama.

……………………………………………………………………………………………..Diploma

R. Newell & Co., Philadelphia, Pa., for three delicately tinted Portraits.

……………………………………………………………………………………………..Diploma

J. Gurney, No. 349 Broadway, N. Y., for the best Photographs in Pastel.

……………………………………………………………………………………….Bronze Medal

C. D. Fredricks, Nos. 585 and 587 Broadway, N. Y., for Photographs in Pastel.

……………………………………………………………………………………………..Diploma

1889 March 9.  Anthony’s Photographic Bulletin.  (New York, New York.)  March 9, 1889, Vol. XX, No. 5, P. 144-146.

Fifteen Years’ Experience  of a Daguerreotyper.  By Alexander Beckers. Read before the Society of Amateur Photographers of New York, January 31, 1889.

In response to the request of your Corresponding Secretary, Mr. Duffield, I hereby give an outline of my experience ‘in the history of the daguerreotype, for a period of fifteen years.

The details of this antiquated, senior branch of your art can interest you only in such parts as are similar. A comparison of the two, however, will show the progress of the half century we commemorate to-day, as also the centennial of the birth of Daguerre.

The first daguerreotype I saw, was made by Robert Cornelius, in Philadelphia. His laboratory was conspicuous. On the outside could be seen a large mirror, swung on a bracket, for illuminating his sitters with reflected sunlight The use of bromine was not yet known in 1840, but Boudine introduced it soon after. In the same year Robert Chilton called on my brother to make hyposulphite of soda, offering four and a half dollars per pound, stating that the French article cost over five dollars to import, although still impure. Thus the first hypo was made here at the corner of 23d street and Fourth avenue, the present site of the Young Men’s Christian Association. Orders for other chemicals followed, and in 1843 Louis Beckers was the first to manufacture photographic chemicals exclusively, at Old York Road, Philadelphia.

In the same year I entered the daguerreotype business of Mr. Fred Langenheim, in the Merchants’ Exchange of Philadelphia. Here there was little to be seen of the things you see nowadays in a photographic art gallery. A kind of a hiding-place for a dark room, and a spyglass-like camera were all the indications of the mystery 1 was to learn. The camera rested on a candlestick-like tripod, with three set-screws for adjustment, and was placed on an ordinary table. To interchange the ground glass and round daguerreotype plate, it was necessary to unscrew a flanged ring, and replace the same by a reverse motion. For the adjustment of the focu?, there was the rack and pinion, as Voightlander’s instruments still have. This instrument was one of the first made according to the mathematical calculations of Professor Petzval, of Vienna, having two achromatic lenses. It had been sent by young Voightlander to his college-mate, WiHiam Langenheim, as a present, with supplies and instructions, but also the warning not to try daguerreotyping, unless he had courage enough to try five hundred times more after failing with the first hundred pictures. William Langenheim, a lawyer, did not have the courage, but his brother Fred had, and succeeded so well that he was offered six hundred dollars for that odd camera.

The manipulations of preparing a daguerreotype plate will not interest you much. I should state, however, that the production of a chemically clean surface on silver, is a difficulty that increases four-fold with the size of the plate. Another difficulty is the use of the chemicals in a volatile state. The iodine can be controlled by sight with faint day-light, but the bromine only by even temperature and constant practice.

At Langenheim’s necessity soon introduced a square camera, with square plates and holders. A high tripod was also used instead of the table. In the summer of 1843 dozen of small Voightlander objectives, such as are still on tlie market, were imported. Soon after, four larger ones, for 6 x 8-inch pictures, arrived. In the fall of that year, Phillip Hass, formerly of Paris, showed Fizeau’s method of fixing the image on the plate by cold gilding. Soon after the picture was made more brilliant by heating the plate while the gold solution was on it. In that winter the first polishing wheel was made. It was constructed like an ordinary grindstone, worked by a treadle, the wheel being cushioned and covered with buckskin. With the aid of this machine, and after weeks of hard labor and many experiments, we succeeded in making the first good large daguerreotype of 6 x 8 inches, called whole size; half and twothirds size were advertised and made with success. At that time we also succeeded in making a picture of a sick lady at her own residence, which had been considered impossible.

In the spring of 1844 Mr. Edward White bought one of the large Voightlander instruments, and for him I made the first large daguerreotypes in this city at 175 Broadway. There were then but a few daguerreans here. They were I. Gurney, Anthony, Edwards & Chilton, Augustus Morand, Van Loan, Burgess, Brush, Weston, Artho, Insley, Plumb, and others I cannot recall.

I remained with Edward White until December, 1844, when it became impossible to make a picture in his operating room on account of the extreme cold, for Mr. White would not allow a fire in the place over night. Then I commenced business for myself, at the comer of Nassau and John streets, and after May, 1845, 201 Broadway, under the firm of Langenheim & Beckers, agents for Voightlander & Louis Beckers.

At that time the large Voightlander objectives had a chemical and a visual focus, so that in order to make a large, near picture, the lenses were moved out one-eighth of an inch, while for usual work the ground glass was set permanently one-sixteenth of an inch nearer than the plate. That summer I look a view of High Bridge before the scaffolding was removed. This picture was taken for the engineers, and was perhaps the first one ever taken here in aid of architecture. By taking out-door views I discovered that the plates increased in sensitiveness with the time between the preparation and exposure, and in 1848 obtained a sharp picture of a procession in motion.

In 1847 I began to use a speculum metal mirror, in order to have my pictures not inverted. For very unsymmetrical faces this arrangement was quite indispensable in order to get a likeness. The mirror was attached to the instrument at an angle of 4 5 degrees. The use of the mirror required double the time of exposure. It was made by Fitz, Senior, the optician, and was used for years after.

In 1848 Fred Langenheim bought the Fox-Talbot patent for the United States, at six thousand dollars. He introduced it here and failed in the undertaking. Our daguerreotypes were taken so perfect that they were preferred to any Talbotype. Abroad the superiority of our pictures was attributed to our clear atmosphere until American Daguerreotypists, as Dentists, took the lead all over the world.

In 1849 “*y firm was changed to Beckers & Piard. Having now more time, we succeeded in substituting machinery for cleaning our plates, and thus obtained cleaner and better plates in one-third the time required by hand.

In 1852 M. M. Root, of Philadelphia, made two pictures on one plate. We succeeded m making four on one plate, and in such a way that the exposed quarter was in the center of the field of the lens. It was then a great relief, as locket pictures were in fashion. In 1856 Mr. Ormsbee patented this same multiplying plate holder and collected considerable money on it, until my priority made his claim void.

The production of stereoscopic portraits was the next task. Marchner, of Philadelphia, made patent cases to show these pictures in a very neat way. In 1854 F. Langenheim had commenced to manufacture stereoscopic views on glass. He sent me three dozen of his make, to find sale for them here. At the first exhibit of these pictures one dozen of them were broken. This loss set me to thinking how to find an arrangement to show and secure the pictures against breakage, and in 1857 I obtained a patent for my revolving stereoscope. The increasing demand for this machine induced me to sell my daguerreotype business in 1858.

Thus I was relieved from satisfying the vanity of each individual beauty of this world, and ended my career as a daguerrean.

1889 April 13.  Anthony’s Photographic Bulletin.  (New York, New York.)  April 13, 1889, Vol. XX, No. 7, P. 209-211

The Daguerreotype Experience.  By Alexander Beckers.  Read before the Photographic Section of the American Institute.

In response to a request of your Chairman of the Executive Committee, Mr. J. B. Gardner, I hereby give you a brief outline of my daguerreotype experience.

The details of this senior branch of photography can interest you, I presume, only in such parts as have a bearing on the more recent modes of picture making. A comparison of these will show the progress of the half century we commemorate and also remind us of the centennial of the birth of Daguerre. The first daguerreotype I ever saw was made by Robert Cornelious, in Philadelphia. His laboratory was conspicuous, for on the outside could be seen a large mirror swung on a bracket to illuminate his sitters with reflected sun-light

The use of bromine was not yet known in 1840 ; but Boudine introduced it soon after. The same year Robert Chilton called on my brother to make hyposulphite of soda, offering $4. 50 per pound ; stating that the French article, though very impure, cost $5 per pound to import. Thus the first hypo was made here, at the corner of 23d street and Fourth avenue, the present site of the Young Men’s Christian Association. Orders for other daguerreotype chemicals quickly followed, and in 1843 Louis Beckers was the first to manufacture these chemicals exclusively, at Old York Road, Philadelphia.

The same year (1843) I entered the daguerreotype business of Mr. Frederick Langenheim, in the Merchants’ Exchange of Philadelphia. Here there was little to be seen of the things you see now in a photo gallery. A kind of hiding place for a dark room and a spyglass-like camera were the only indications of the mystery I was to learn. The camera rested on a candlestick-like tripod, with three set screws for adjustment, and was placed on an ordinary table. To interchange the ground-glass and round daguerreotype plates, it was necessary to unscrew a flanged ring and replace the same by a reverse motion. For the adjustment of focus there was the rack and pinion, as Voigtlander ‘s instruments still have. This instrument was one of the first made according to the mathematical calculations of Professor Petzval, of Vienna, having two achromatic lenses. One of these instruments was sent by young Voigtlander to his college mate, William Langenheim, as a present, with supplies and instructions, but also with the warning not to attempt daguerreotyping unless he had courage enough to try five hundred times more after failing in the first hundred pictures. This young lawyer, William Langenheim, proved not to have the courage, but his brother Frederick had, and succeeded so well that he was offered six hundred dollars for that odd camera. The preparing of daguerreotype plates will not interest you much, though I should state that the production of a chemically clean surface on silver is a difficulty that increases four-fold with the size of the plate. Another difficulty is the use of the chemicals in a volatile state. The iodine can be controlled by sight with faint day-light ; but the bromine only by even temperature and constant practice. The round plates were used only for a short time, and so far as I know Langenheim was the first to introduce a square camera, plates and holders; also a tripod in place of a table. In the summer of 1843 the first dozen of small Voigtlander objectives were imported. One of these, 1 believe, is still in the possession of Mr. J. B. Gardner. Soon after four large ones, for 6×8 pictures, were imported. In the fall of that year Philipe Haas, formerly of Paris, showed Fizeau’s method of fixing the image on the plate by cold gilding. Shortly after this it was found that the picture could be gilded in much less time and made more brilliant by heating the plate while the gold solution was on it, and so Fizeau’s method went entirely out of use. During the winter of 1843 the first polishing wheel was made. It was constructed like an ordinary grindstone, the wheel being cushioned and then covered with buckskin. With the aid of this machine, and after weeks of hard labor, we succeeded in making the first 6×8 daguerreotype. At this time the only sizes used with any degree of success were 3×4 and 5^ x 4 J. There were also many plates used two sizes smaller that were designated as sixths and ninths. At that time we also succeeded in making a picture of a sick lady at her own residence, which was then deemed impossible.

In the spring of 1844 Mr. Edward White bought one of the large Voigtlander instruments, and for him I made the first large daguerreotype in New York City, at 175 Broadway. There were then only a few daguerreans in the city. They were J. Gurney, Anthony, Edwards & Chilton, Van Loan, Burgess, and a few others I cannot recall. I remained with Mr. White until December, 1844, when it was impossible to make a picture on account of the severe cold, for my employer would not allow a fire in his place over night Then I commenced business for myself at the corner of Nassau and John streets, and after May, 1845, at 201 Broadway, under the firm of Langenheim & Beckers, agents for Voigtlander & Louis Beckers.

At that time the large Voigtlander objectives had a chemical and a visual focus, so that in order to make a picture sharp the lenses were moved out one eighth of an inch. This we soon after rectified by having the ground-glass of the camera set permanently one-sixteenth of an inch nearer the lens than the sensitive plate.

That summer 1 took a view of High Bridge, before the scaffolding was removed. This picture was made for the engineers, and was perhaps the first taken in this country in aid of architecture.

By taking out-door views, I soon discovered that the plate increased in sensitiveness by not exposing it immediately after sensitizing. I found, however, that any very long delay (say for three hours or more) made the plate entirely useless. In 1847, the optician, Fitz, Sr., made for me a speculum metal mirror, with which I was enabled to avoid the inversion of my pictures. For many faces and objects this was a great advantage, though it doubled the time of exposure. This mirror was attached to the instrument at an angle of forty-five degrees, and “So well did it serve my purpose that I continued to use it for a number of years.

In 1848 Langenheim bought Fox Talbot’s patent for the United States at six thousand dollars, but financially it proved a failure, as this process never became popular in this country. Why it should not prove a success is quite evident when we remember how infinitely superior the daguerreotype was to any sun picture made on paper. In England Talbot’s process could be received with greater favor, as it did not come in competition with the daguerreotype as made in America. It is true that the daguerreotype was made in many of the large cities of Europe, but in none of these could it compare with the work of this country. The daguerreotypists here took the lead in the beginning ; and up to the time when the collodion process became popular, never allowed themselves to be excelled by any other nation.

In 1849 my firm was changed to Beckers & Piard. Having now more time, ‘we succeeded in constructing a machine for cleaning plates in one-third the time required by hand.

In 1852 we contrived a method for making four pictures on one plate, and in such a way that the exposed quarter was in the center of the field of the lens. To us this was a very useful improvement, for locket pictures were then in great demand. In 1856 Mr. Ormsby obtained a patent for this same multiplying plate-holder, and collected considerable money on it, until my priority claim proved his to be void. The production of stereoscopic pictures was the next task. Mascher, of Philadelphia, made patent cases to show these portraits in a very neat manner. In 1854 F. Langenheim commenced the manufacture of stereoscopic views on glass. He sent me three dozen, to find sale for them in New York. At the first exhibition of these pictures one-third of them were broken. This loss set me to thinking how to contrive an arrangement to show and secure the pictures against breakage, and in 1857 I obtained a patent for my revolving stereoscope. The increasing demand for this machine induced me to sell my daguerreotype business in 1858.

Thus being relieved from catering to the vanity of humanity, my career as a daguerrean was ended.  Hoboken March 4, 1889,

Barnum, DeLos

1856                Address Unknown, Boston, Massachusetts.[1]

1857                2 Winter Street, Boston, Massachusetts.1

1858                335 Washington Street, Boston, Massachusetts.

1858                230 Commercial Street, Boston, Massachusetts.1

1859                365 Washington Street, Boston, Massachusetts.1

1860                Address Unknown, Roxbury, Massachusetts.1

1856 April 5.  Manuscript.  Letter from D. Barnum to Scovill Manufacturing Company.  Collection of Scovill Manufacturing Company Records, Scovill II, Incoming Letters, vol. 2, p. 104.  Baker Library, Harvard University Graduate School in Business Administration.

Mr. Humphrey, Dear Sir In you (sic) journal for March 15, I Noticed a Call for a first class Daguerreotypist to go to California.  being desirous of visiting that Country I resolved to Answer your notice.  I have been in the business now 5 years & for the past year I have been at work for Messrs. Southworth & Hawes and I am at work there at present. & Shall continue to unless I go to California.  I am a Married Man & Shall take my wife with me.  If you have not found the man you want, And should you think fit to Answer this Stating particulars

Address.  D. Barnum 5½ Tremont, Row, Southworth & Hawes’ Daguerreotype Rooms, Boston

1857-1875.  Stereo Views.  By John S. Waldsmith, 1991.

List Delos Barnum as being active from 1857 to 1875.  Made early photographs of Boston

(ca. 1857) on ivory mounts with blind-stamped identification.  Most notable is his “American Historical Series” (1859) of more than fifty views of Revolutionary War landmarks in and around Boston.  These are on ivory mounts with ornate and fancy descriptive backs.  He also did a fine series of Saratoga and Niagara Falls Plus a series of Washington, D. C.

1858 January 22.  Waltham Sentinel.  (Waltham, Massachusetts.)  Vol. 3, No. 4, P. 3.

Wyman & Co., Photographic Artists, 335 Washington Street, cor. West Street, Boston.

Photographs, Ambrotypes, and every picture in the Art, executed in the neatest and most approved style.

Photographs colored in oil, or tinted in water colors in any style.  Particular attention given to copying.  H. Wyman.  Ja 22.   D. Barnum.

Advertisement ran from January 22 to February 19, 1858.

1860 September.  Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association.

Awarded a Bronze Medal at the ninth exhibition of the Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association Fair for Stereoscopic Pictures.

1860 September 24.  Boston Daily Evening Transcript.  (Boston, Massachusetts.)  September 24, 1860, Vol. XXXI, No 9331,  P. 2.

Stereoscopic Views.  Mr. Delos Barnum of Roxbury has a fine show of Stereoscopic Views in Mechanics Exhibition.  These views are not only of a very high order of merit, but the subjects selected for illustration have special interest to our citizens.  Mr. Barnum last year published an historical series of 21 pictures of noted places in Eastern Massachusetts, which we commended to public attention at the time.  His list, besides those above named, now include eight views of the College buildings and private residences in Cambridge, sixteen views of Mount Auburn, three at Nahant, twelve of places at Franconia, twelve of Niagara, twelve of Buildings and squares in Boston, and others representing noted objects  in Canada, Michigan, Vermont, Greenwood Cemetery, Jamaica Plain, etc.  The whole forming a collection of about a hundred and twenty American views of great beauty and national interest.  Thomas Groom & Co. and the other dealers have these views for sale.


[1] Directory of Massachusetts Photographs, 1839-1900.

Barker

1858                Minnesota Avenue, Over Vedder & Co.’s Store, Wyandott City, Kansas.

1858 June 17.  Western Argus.  (Kansas City, Kansas.)  June 17, 1858, Vol. 1, No. 13, P. 1.

Excelsior Ambrotype Rooms, Minnesota Avenue, Over Vedder & Co’s Store, Wyandott City, K. T.

Ambrotypes, Melainotypes, Stereoscopes etc., etc., put up in the most artistic style.  Call And See Us.  Barker & Co.  May 20, 1858. 

H. N. Wevere

1855                Sycamore Street, Petersburg, Virginia.

H. N. Wevere was recorded in three advertisements in the Daily Express (Petersburg, Virginia.) The first advertisement was recorded on September 25, 1855.

“Blest be the art that can immortalize,

The art that baffles time’s tyrannic claim.”

H. N. Wevere having taken the well known and popular Whitehurst Gallery, recently occupied by Wm. G. Edgar, is prepared to accommodate all those in want of life-like and durable Daguerreotypes on reasonable terms and at the shortest notice.  Having had an experience of seven or eight years in some of the principal Galleries in the Union, he flatters himself that he is perfectly competent to produce Pictures equal to any made.

Customers will receive at all times every attention, and no exertion will be spared to render their Pictures satisfactory.  Stereoscopic and Crayon Pictures made in the highest style of the art.  A large assortment of Jewelry and Fancy Cases, made expressly for Daguerreotypes, kept constantly on hand.

Pictures of deceased persons taken at their residences in the most approved style.

No difference on account of the weather, except for small children.  Our motto is, “Exce’sior.”

The second advertisement was recorded on November 29.  1855. M. E. Conference.—Members of the Conference wishing to have their Daguerreotypes taken during their stay in the city, can do so at a liberal reduction from the usual prices, by calling at the old Whitehurst Gallery, over Noah Walker & Co.’s Clothing store, Sycamore street.

No Picture is allowed to be taken from the Gallery unless entirely satisfactory.  The Artist has a reputation second to none in the country.

Pictures fitted in Rings, Pins, and Lockets on the most reasonable terms.  A call is respectfully solicited.  H. N. Wevere, Proprietor.

The third advertisement was recorded on December 25, 1855.  Hurrah for The Holidays!—Nothing is as suitable for a Christmas and New Year Present as a Daguerreotype of those we love.  It is the most beautiful and appropriate souvenir that can be imagined.

H. N. Wevere, at the old Whitehurst Gallery, will be pleased to accommodate all those in want of Daguerreotypes for a reasonable consideration:  His Daguerreotypes are universally admired.  The beauty of tone, the excellence of finish, and arrangement of drapery, combined with the faultless position, render them perfect in every respect.

The Artist needs no further recommendation than that already given by the press.  A large variety of Cases, plain and fancy, kept constantly on hand.  A call is respectfully solicited.  H. N. Wevere., Proprietor.

H. N. Wevere is not recorded in other photographic directories.