Tag Archives: Ambrotypist

J. Trott

1858-1859       Rooms Opposite the Depot, Warren, Rhode Island.

1860                Rooms Near the Depot, Warren, Rhode Island.

J. Trott was recorded in three advertisements in the Warren Telegraph (Warren, Rhode Island).  The firs advertisement was recorded on July 23, 1859.  Back Again!  J. Trott is back at his old quarters with his Ambrotype and Photograph Apparatus, prepared to furnish as good pictures as can be obtained at any other Saloon, and at as low price.  Call and see for yourselves.  jy9.

The second advertisement was recorded on July 23, 1859.  Ambrotype And Photograph Saloon!  The Subscriber having fitted up rooms in the building formerly occupied by H. D. Maxfield, opposite the Depot, respectfully announces that he is prepared to put up the above style of Pictures in the most perfect manner, being permanently secured and warranted not to fade in any climate, from the smallest to the largest size, and neatly set in lockets, Pins, Rings, Cases and Frames, of which he has a supply constantly on hand.

Copying done in the best possible manner, and the copy warranted to be as good as the original picture.

Perfect satisfaction guaranteed in all cases.

The public are invited to call and examine his Pictures.  J. Trott, Artist.  Warren, Dec. 25, 1858.

The third advertisement was recorded on June 2 and July 7, 1860.  Ambrotypes & Photographs J. Trott would respectfully inform the citizens of Warren and vicinity, that he will open his Rooms, near the Depot, on Monday Next, Dec. 19, when he will be prepared to take the above beautiful styles of pictures in the most perfect manner.

J. Trott is not recorded in other photographic directories.

Tripp & Sprague

1858                159 Westminster Street, Providence, Rhode Island.

Tripp & Sprague (Francis H. Tripp & Barton Sprague) were appeared in one advertisement on  August 7, 1858 in General Advertiser (Providence, Rhode Island).  Photographs, At Greatly Reduced Prices, At Tripp & Sprague’s Gallery No. 159 Westminster street.  We are now prepared to furnish Photographs equal to any made in this city, and at much lower prices than ever before offered to the public.  Having secured the services of an experienced Artist, we are also prepared to color and finish them to order, either in Oil or Water Colors.

N. B.—Large Size Photographs made from Daguerreotypes or other Small Pictures, at very low prices and in a manner not to be excelled.  We still continue to make Ambrotypes at much lower prices than ever before offered in this city.  All persons in want of first class likenesses, will do well to give us a call.  F. H. Tripp, B. Sprague.  jy3.

Tripp & Sprague are not recorded in other photographic directories as being in a partnership.  Both Francis H. Tripp and Barton Sprague our listed in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry.

V. C. Tarbox

1859                Lime Rock Street, Perry’s Block, Rockland, Maine.

V. C. Tarbox was recorded in one advertisement that appeared on December 29, 1859 in the  Rockland Gazette (Rockland, Maine).  Correct Likenesses For 25 Cents To 10 Dollars.  The subscriber would respectfully inform the public that he has taken the Whitten Gallery, On Lime Rock Street, Perry’s Block, near the Post Office, where he will remain a short time. 

All kinds of pictures made from a Cheap Ambrotype to a Photograph, and small miniatures enlarged to Cabinet or Life Size.

Positive and Negative Collodion for sale.

Please Give Him A Call.  V. C. Tarbox, Artist.  Rockland, Dec. 26, 1859.

V. C. Tarbox is not recorded in other photographic directories.

Tanner & Cochran

1857                Main Street, Lynchburg, Virginia.

Tanner & Cochran (N. S. Tanner & A. Cochran) were recorded in one advertisement on August 26, 1857 in the Lynchburg Daily Virginian (Lynchburg, Virginia).  N. S. Tanner & Co. Photographers, Main St. 3rd Door From Bridge Lynchburg, Va.

New Copartnership.—The undersigned have formed a copartnership under the style and firm of N. S. Tanner & Co. for the purpose of conducting a general Photographic business, at the old stand of Minnis & Tanner, the copartnership dating from the 1st January, 1857.  The business will be greatly enlarged, and everything new in the business will be found at our Gallery, and pictures warranted to please.

We are agents for the sale of Neff’s Patent Melaniotype Rights.  Melaniotype, is a new and beautiful style of picture, and can be colored very highly with pleasing effect.  The Melaniotype manual contains full and complete instructions in Ambrotyping, Photographing on paper, and infact everything that belongs to the business.  Also Lockets, Breast Pins, Rings, &c.

Instruction in either of the above arts given on reasonable terms, and satisfaction given in all cases.  N. S. Tanner, A. Cochran.   may 6.

Tanner & Cochran are not recorded in other photographic directories.  Unfortunately, this was the only newspaper available for 1857.

Sturgess & Taylor

1859                Rooms East Temple Street, Great Salt Lake City, Utah

Sturgess & Taylor (C. Sturgess & G. J. Taylor) were recorded in two advertisements ad one announcement in The Mountaineer (Great Salt Lake City, Utah).  The first advertisement ran from September 3 to 10, 1859.  New Daguerrean Gallery!  Messrs. Sturgess & Taylor Have Just Opened a Daguerrean Gallery, at the old stand, just south of Godby’s Drug Store, where they are prepared to take daguerreotypes, Ambrotypes, M-leanotypes, &c., in the latest and most approved style.

Mr. Sturgess has for a number of years past been engaged in some of the first galleries of London, New York, St. Louis and elsewhere, and is thoroughly acquainted with all the late improvements in the art.  Having on hand a well selected assortment of Cases, Plates, and Fittings, to business, they will be able to obtain a liberal share of public patronage.

Pictures taken in various styles, suitable for including in letters. C. Sturgess.  G. J. Taylor.

The second advertisement ran from September 24 to November 19, 1859.  Another Great Battle!!  Terrific Slaughter!  Thousands of bereaved and disconsolate widows and orphans mourning in the bitterness of despair, and refusing to be comforted simply because they have neglected, in the season thereof, to provide themselves with Life-Like Likenesses, Such as are taken by Sturgess And Taylor, East Temple Street, where tumultuous multitudes of enchanted patrons throng daily to receive those magnificent Xylographic Pictures, which they still continue to present to their numerous friends, at the ridiculously Low Prices which their immense amount of Stock has enabled them to introduce—where Pictures are copied, cleaned and repaired—where likenesses are taken in various styles for inclosing in letters, and where Jewelry and Cases of almost every description are kept constantly on hand!  Go and examine their work, and you will feel to exclaim with the Queen of Sheba, “The half has not been told me.”

Sturgess & Taylor, East Temple Street, Just South of the Salt Lake House.

The announcement appeared on October 8, 1859, Vol. 2, No. 1, P. 2.

Desert State Fair.  The fourth annual exhibition in connection with the Desert Agricultural and Manufacturing Society was held in the Social Hal, in this city, on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday last…Mr. Cannon, the Daguerrean artist, has at last powerful rivals in Messrs. Sturgess & Taylor.  This last firm took the first prize.  The specimens produced by both houses were excellent, and showed good pictures….

Sturgess & Taylor are not recorded in other photographic directories as being active in Salt Lake City, Utah.  It is likely that the two entries for Charles Sturgess in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry are the same person based on the information in the second paragraph of the first advertisement.

H. M. Stuart

1856                Main Street, Harden’s Block, Belfast, Maine.

1859                Address Unknown, Augusta, Maine.

H. M. Stuart was recorded in two announcements in the Republican Journal (Belfast, Maine) and mentioned in one advertisement.  The first announcement appeared on March 7, 1856.  Daguerreotype Notice, Every Likeness Warranted!  Mr. Stuart, Daguerreian Artist would respectfully inform the citizens of Belfast and vicinity that he has taken the rooms formerly occupied by My. Quimby, in Haraden’s Block, Main Street, Where he will be prepared to furnish customers with Likenesses as perfect as can be obtained elsewhere and put up in neat and fashionable Cases, Frames, Lockets and Pins At the Most Reasonable Terms.

Likenesses taken in all weather, and at all hours of the day.

He would also say that with the aid of a Quick Camera of the best manufacturies (Sic.) in the United States he is enabled to take Likenesses of Children in the shortest possible time.

He will keep constantly on hand a good assortment of Cases, Frames, Lockets and Pins, of various styles and sizes.  H. M. Stuart.  [50]

The second announcement appeared on November 14, 1856.  Ambrotypes!  Mr. Stuart, At Haraden’s Block, Head of Main Street, Would respectfully inform the citizens of Belfast and vicinity that he is now prepared to take Ambrotype Likenesses of Superior Quality, For 50 Cents, Warranted Not To Fade!  In as good style as can be produced in New England.  Having tested to its utmost, the advantages of the Ambrotype over the Daguerreotype, both in Richness of Tone and Durability, he feels confident that he can give entire satisfaction to all who wish for Perfect Life-Like Minatures. (Sic.)  Those in want of good and lasting impressions of themselves and friends, are invited to call and sit, but a few seconds at most, to be convinced that such is the case.

These Pictures are Taken on Glass, and to be convinced that they are the most life-like and durable pictures ever taken, persons have but to see them-therefore, all are invited to call at Stuart’s Daguerrean Rooms, Haraden’s Block, Opposite the New Custom-House, and examine specimens.

He also continues to put up Daguerreotypes, in the usual manner, and in every style yet discovered in the art, such as Crayon and Stereoscope Likenesses, formerly admitted to be the most Life-like of any miniatures produced in the Daguerrean art, and but little inferior to his new and lasting Photographic Pictures.

Likenesses taken in all weather, and at all hours of the day, by sitting from one to ten seconds only, and put up in the most fashionable Cases, Frames, Lockets and Pins, At the Most Reasonable Prices.

He will keep constantly on hand a good assortment of cases, Frames, Lockets, and Pins, of the various styles and sizes.

Remember—Office in Haraden’s Block, Main street, opposite the New Custom-House.  W. M. Stuart. [18]

The advertisement which he was mentioned in appeared January 11, 1859 in The Age (Augusta, Maine) ad ran for three weeks.  Photographs!  J. S. Hendee Would respectfully announce to the citizens of Augusta, and the public generally, that he has made arrangements with W. M. Stuart, One of the best Photographist in the country.  To stop in connection with him at his Picture Rooms, for one or two weeks; where they will be prepared to make Photographs of the various styles and sizes, from the smallest to the largest.

Mr. Stuart, having had long and successful experience, and having made a number of useful discoveries in the art, which he is now using, will make Photographs that cannot be excelled in the country.

He has one of the improved, large, double-whole cameras, which enables him to make Pictures nearly Life Size!  As fine and  nice as smaller ones.  These large pictures are everywhere preferred; they are made perfect, and when colored, are as beautiful as Oil Paintings.  They can be seen in any light, and are the most durable pictures ever taken, and one sitting only is requisite for any number.

There Never was so large an instrument in the place before.  Now, therefore, is your time, To secure Memento that will withstand the ravages of time.  Any size Photographs made from small pictures and finished with colors and enamel, or plain.

Cutting’s Patent Ambrotypes Made at these rooms, that cannot be excelled in the Union. 

Pictures taken in cloudy as well as in fair weather.  Come in and examine specimens.

Remember, for a few days only!  Terms Reasonable.  Augusta, Jan. 10, 1859.

H. M. Stuart is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as being active in Belfast. Maine in 1860.  Which brings up the question did Stuart have a second studio in Augusta, Maine.

Stearns & McLaughlin

1858-1859       130, 134 and 136 Middle Street, Portland, Maine.

Stearns & McLaughlin were recorded in two advertisements.   The first  advertisement ran from September 28 to December 28, 1848 in the Christian Mirror (Portland, Maine.)  (With a typo in the spelling of McLaughlin’s last name ).  Photographs and Ambrotypes, Stearns & McGlaughlin, (Sic) (Successors to J. W. C. Morrison.)  At Their Chambers, 130, 134 and 136 Middle St., Are producing these pictures in all the various styles of the art and equal to any in the country; from the Life Size Head down to the tinniest Locket picture.  Satisfaction warranted in all cases.

Particular attention paid to taking pictures of Sick Or Deceased Persons, in the city, or at a distance. 

Also we have extra facilities for taking-views of Residences, Churches, Public buildings,  Natural scenery &c. &c. in the city or elsewhere. 

Copying done in the neatest manner.

The public are invited to visit our Rooms and examine our large collection of specimens.

Don’t forget the Nos.  130, 134 and 136 Middle St. Portland, ME.

The second advertisement ran from October 1, 1858 to January 7, 1859 in the Zion’s Advocate  (Portland, Maine).  Photographs and Ambrotypes, Stearns & McLaughlin, Successors to J. W. C. Morrison.  At Their Chambers, 130, 134 and 136 Middle Street, Are producing these pictures in all the various Styles of the art and equal to any in the Country, from the life size head down to the tinniest Locket picture.  Satisfaction warranted in all cases.

Particular attention paid to taking pictures of sick or deceased, in the city, or at a distance—also we have extra facilities for taking-views of Residences, Churches, Public Buildings or Natural Scenery in the city or elsewhere.  Copying done in the neatest manner.

The public are invited to visit our Rooms and examine our large collection of specimens.

Don’t forget the No.  130, 134 and 136 Middle Street.

Stearns & McLaughlin are not recorded in other photographic directories.

Lewis V. Staffer

1856                Over Baird’s Jewelry Store, Allen’s Block, Ravenna, Ohio.

Lewis V. Staffer was recorded in eight announcements and nine advertisements in The Weekly Portage Sentinel (Ravenna, Ohio).  The first announcement appeared on August 21, 1856. 

Pictures.—Those who desire to obtain valuable and correct likenesses of themselves or their friends, should call at the Ambrotype rooms of Staffer & Stedman in Allen’s Block.  See Advertisement.

The first advertisement ran from August 21 to December 11, 1856.  Ambrotypes!  Ambrotypes taken by Staffer & Stedman, at their Rooms over Baird’s Jewelry Store, Allen’s Block, Ravenna, O., for seventy-Five Cents, where every variety of likenesses can be obtained.  Ambrotypes inserted in breast pins and lockets.  Whole size likenesses for $5 and $6—former price $10 and $12.  Particular attention paid to taking the likenesses of children.  Having a large sky and side light, impressions taken in from three to five seconds.  Our likenesses are all positive and not reversed. All work warranted.  Likenesses taken either in clear or cloudy weather.  August 21, 1855.

The second advertisement ran from September 4 to December 11, 1856.  Something New.—Staffer & Stedman are now taking Ambrotypes on Paper.  The finest articles in the picture line to send by mail, as it cost no extra postage. 

The second announcement appeared on September 25, 1856.  Portage Co. Agricultural Society.  At the Portage County Agricultural Fair, held September 17th and 18th, 1856, premiums were awarded as follows…On Miscellaneous Manufactured Art… 

L. V. Staffer & Co., Best specimen daguerreotype pictures,  dip.   

The third advertisement ran from October 16, 1856 to May 21, 1857.  Premium Ambrotypes and Daguerreotypes.  L. V. Staffer  Co., respectfully invite the public to call at their rooms over Baird’s Jewelry, Allen’s Block, Ravenna, and examine their specimens upon which they received the first premium at the last county fair.  We offer the following reasons why we can produce better pictures than can be obtained elsewhere in this county.  We have the largest and most powerful camera in this section of the state.  Our light is so arranged as not only to give a life like expression to the features, but also drapery of the utmost beauty and richness.  (The want of which is a great fault in the work of some operators.)  We use the genuine chemicals, regardless of expense, and having had ten years experience in the art we know that we can produce better results than the mere tyro of a few months practice.  Those wishing good pictures of themselves or friends will find it to their advantage to call at our rooms and be convinced that this is the place to get a perfect likeness.  Prices as low as in any rooms of good repute in Northern Ohio. Children’s likenesses taken in one or two seconds.  We seldom fail to get a good likeness of the most restless.

Daguerreotypes.—As there are some who still prefer this style, we would say that we are at all times prepared to take them.

Caution.—The public are cautioned against Ambrotypes backed up with black paint or varnished, as the backing will crack eventually and the picture become worthless.  All good operators have discarded this process, we have not used it for many months and all persons having pictures put up by us in that way, are invited to call and when they become cracked and have them made good.  Such pictures can be known by their having a glass over the matting, the position of the setter being reversed, and having a dull appearances at arms length,.

Remember the place, over Baird’s Jewelry Store.  Oct., 16, 1856.  L. V. Staffer  Co.

The third announcement appeared on December 25, 1856.  Holiday Gifts.—We have no doubt but that many of our readers are now thinking of what articles they shall get, with which to present their friends during the present holiday season.  Every body knows that wearing apparel is not a proper article for a gift, and jewelry is considered by many to be equally improper.  Now is this state of the case, we know of nothing more appropriate than an accurate likeness of one’s “own dear self.”  This is a gift which can be received by any one without the least violation of the rules of etiquette, and persons who present such an article are not likely to be soon forgotten, from the fact that whenever it is looked upon, the ‘phiz” of the donor will be observed.  In our peregrinations last week, we called at the Ambrotype Rooms of L. V. Staffer & Co., in Allen’s Block, and if the specimens which were shown us can be taken as an evidence of skill, we have no hesitation in saying that Mr. Staffer stands unrivalled in his profession.  For accuracy, and all other points which go to make up a good picture, he cannot, in our judgement, be excelled by any operator in Northern Ohio.  Call at his Rooms, examine his specimens and our word for it, you will coincide in what we say.

The fourth announcement appeared on March 5, 1857.  Garroting.—The frequency with which this new process of securing victims occurs is truly alarming, and we notice that it has arrested the attention of the Legislature of Massachusetts, who deem it of sufficient importance to appoint a committee to devise [means] of prevention.  The prominent distinctive feature of garroting, is taking the intended victim by the throat, which operation is not at all calculated to amuse the subject, especially if he loses his watch and money.  Now the method of garroting, adopted by Staffer is rather pleasant.  It is true he takes some of your money from you, but he takes you by the hand with a gentlemanly [sir], and gives you an equivalent in the shape of an accurate and life-like Ambrotype.  Call and see him.   

The fifth announcement appeared on May 21, 1857.  Photographs, Ambrotypes And Daguerreotypes.—Our neighbor, L. V. Staffer, is now better prepared than ever to wait on those who may wish anything in the above line.  Mr. S. being one of the best artists in Ohio, and naturally a man of fine taste in arranging drapery, etc., should be patronized by those wishing correct representations of themselves or friends.  Call and examine his specimens.

The fourth advertisement ran from May 21 to September 17, 1857.  Get Your Photographs, Ambrotypes, etc., at Staffer & Co.  Rooms over Baird’s Jewelry Store, Ravenna, O.

The fifth advertisement ran from May 21 to November 5, 1857.  L. V. Staffer & CO., Photograph, Ambrotype And Daguerreotype Artists, (Rooms over Baird’s Jewelry Store, Allen’s Block.)  Are prepared to take every known kind of Likeness in the most superior style.

Photographs!—From the smallest, suitable to send by mail, to the splendid life and cabinet size, colored in oil or water colors.  Large and life-like.  Photographs made from the Ambrotypes and Daguerreotypes of deceased persons.  We have the best process for enlarging that has ever been invented.  (patent or otherwise.)

Ambrotypes!—Beautifully clear and brilliant!, resembling in softness and depth of tone an ivory pairing, and put up in the only durable style, viz: without black varnish.  Our work of this class needs no comments.  The fact that we received the first premium on them at the last county fair, in competition with the other artists of this place, speaks for itself.  In addition to the above, we take Daguerreotypes, Ambrographs, Sphereotypes, etc. 

Call and examine our specimens, learn our prices and you will see that this is the place to get your pictures.  Remember the Rooms—over Baird’s Jewelry Store, Main street. 

The sixth announcement appeared on July 2, 1857.  Staffer’s Photograph And Ambrotype Gallery.—In consequence of his large and increasing business demanding it, our neighbor, L. V. Staffer, has fitted up another room for the accommodation of his visitors and patrons.  His rooms are now well arranged, and a visitor can spend an hour with pleasure and profit in examining the productions of his skill.  We know of no man who possesses in a greater degree the happy art of giving life and expression to a picture than Staffer.  He seems to have an intuitive knowledge of what will develop the features, dress, etc., in the best manner, and as a result the subjects of his pictures are recognized instantly.  He is prepared to take Photographs—(a beautiful invention, by the way,)—either cabinet or life size.  Ambrotypes and Daguerreotypes on the most approved principles, and warrants satisfaction or no charge.  Step in and have a chat with him.

The seventh announcement appeared on September 3, 1857.  Gift Enterprise.—We would call particular attention to the gift enterprise of Messrs. Staffer & Co.   There can be no fraud, no dishonesty and no losses, to any person.  The gifts are simply premiums to those who get likenesses.  You get a good picture at the regular price, and well worth all you pay for it in every instance.  Then, in addition to this, you have a chance to draw a prize varying from twenty-five cents to twenty dollars in value.  Staffer & Co. are excellent artists, and their work will be certain to give general satisfaction.

The sixth advertisement ran from August 27 to December 11, 1857.  Gifts!  One Thousand Dollars Worth Of Watches, Jewelry, Etc., To be given away this fall and winter to the customers of L. V. Staffer & Co.

As we are at present laboring under a sever attack of generosity, we have determined to make the following liberal offer to everybody, viz:  To each person getting a likeness at our rooms, in Allen’s Block, Ravenna, after this date, for which we receive $1.50 or more, we shall present one of the following Gifts, to be drawn and the goods received at the time of getting the likeness.

Schedule Of The Gifts. 

2 Gifts, Silver Lever Watches, each $20.                   $40

2 Gifts, Silver Lever Watches, each $12.                   $24

2 Gifts, Gold Lockets, each $10.                                $20

2 Gifts, Gold Lockets, each $8.                                  $16

To be selected, by the holder of the ticket, from an assortment of lockets, Breast pins, Ear rings, &c., To be selected from an assortment of notions.

11 Gifts, each $5.                                                        $55

15 Gifts, each $4.                                                        $60

20 Gifts, each $3.                                                        $60

50 Gifts, each $2.                                                        $100

100 Gifts, each $1.                                                      $100

300 Gifts, each 50 cts.                                                $150

1500 Gifts, each 25 cts.                                              $375.                                                  

2064 Gifts                                                                   $1000

Manner of Distribution.  The tickets filled out to correspond with the above list, will be placed in separate sealed envelopes, and the whole placed in a box for the purpose, and from which the customer will be entitled to draw one, at random, for each picture purchased as above, and the goods specified will be furnished at the usual retail prices.  And that everyone shall have an equal [chance] the number of tickets will always be kept the same; as soon as one is drawn, another of the same amount will be put in its place.

The $1.50 pictures will be put up as heretofore, in fine double gilted cases, with silk velvet lining and stamped matts, and warranted fully equal in every respect to any that can be obtained, for the same price, in any room in Northern Ohio.

In addition to the above scheme, we shall continue to put up likenesses for those who wish them, for 75 cents and $1 each.

Now we would say to each and every one who wants a good likeness, come along.  Where can you do as well?  You get your likeness as cheap as at any other place; you are sure to get back a portion of the price and may receive several times the amount paid—but a word to the wise is sufficient.

Remember our Rooms are over Baird’s Jewelry Store, Allen’s Block, south side of Main st., Ravenna.  L. V. Staffer & Co.

The seventh advertisement appeared on October 8, 1857.  Never To Be Undersold.—50 to 100 per cent off.—L. V. Staffer  Co. will put up good Ambrotypes at the following rates, until further notice, viz: $1.00 style for 50 cents; $1.25 for 75 cents; $1.50 for $1.00; $2.00 for $1.25; and for $1.50 we will give a $2.50 style and a chance for a gift of 25 cents to $20.00, as per scheme in another column.  Likenesses put up in any style to suit and warranted.  Now is the time to get your family picture cheap. 

The eighth announcement appeared on October 15, 1857. List of Premiums Awarded at the Twelfth Annual Fair of the Portage County Agricultural Society, held at the Fair Grounds in Ravenna, on the 28th, 29th, and 30th of September 1857…Class 17–On Miscellaneous Manufactured Articles…

Frank Ford, best show of daguerreotypes, ambrotypes and plain photographs, for each a Diploma.

L. V. Staffer & Co., best show of colored photographs, Diploma.

The Eighth advertisement ran from January 7 to June 17, 1858.  Ambrotypes and Photographs.  Those wanting a first class Likeness and one that is correct, cannot do better than call on Staffer & Co., at their gallery in Allen’s Block, where you will find a large collection of fine specimens, all of their own manufacture. 

The ninth advertisement appeared on March 31, 1859.  People’s Gallery.  At the old stand of L. V. Staffer & Co., nearly opposite the east end of Phoenix Block, Ravenna, Ohio.

Superb Ambrotypes, Photographs And Melainotypes, 50 Per Cent Less Than Elsewhere.

Persons in want of pictures of any style will find it much to their interest to call at this Gallery before purchasing elsewhere.  No time will be spent in unprofitable “gassing” but all are invited to come and judge for themselves as to the quality of the work with the assurance that no pains will be spared, to make the best picture possible for every customer, and no one will be expected to take work away unless perfectly suited.  O. F. Stedman.  Ravenna, March 31, 1850.

Lewis V. Staffer is not recorded in other photographic directories.  Two additional items have just been discovered.  The first an announcement appeared on April 5, 1854 in the Portage County Democrat (Ravenna, Ohio).  Which establishes his first name.   Married At Cuyahoga Falls, on the 30th ult., by Rev. Thomas Stubbs, Me. Lewis V. Staffer and Miss Sophronia L. Matthews; all of Ravenna. 

The second is an advertisement in The Weekly Portage Sentinel (Ravenna, Ohio) that ran from April 17 to May 1, 1856.  L. V. Staffer, who has had charge of Wm. B. Matthews’ Daguerrean Rooms for the past year, announces to his friends ad the public generally, that he will hereafter be found at the Ambrotype rooms of O. F. Stedman & Co., in Allen’s block, where he will be happy to wait upon those in want of good pictures with promptness and dispatch.

J.  Thomas Smith

1856-1857       151 Main Street, Eagle Square, Richmond, Virginia.

1859                Corinthian Hall, Richmond, Virginia.

1859                215 Main Street, Richmond, Virginia.[1]

1860                77 Main Street, Richmond, Virginia.1

J.  Thomas Smith was recorded in fifteen advertisements and three announcements in The Daily Dispatch (Richmond, Virginia).  The first advertisement ran from December 27, 1856 to January 1, 1857. This is to inform my friends and the public generally, That I am now taking Pictures at the well established rooms of Mr. Powers, where I should be pleased to receive a liberal patronage.

Ambrotypes one Dollar—entire satisfaction, or no charge.  Respectfully, J. Thos. Smith.

The second advertisement ran from April 13 to 16, 1859.  Ambrotypes And Photographs.  Having purchased the Fine Art Gallery in Corinthian Hall. recently occupied by P. E. Gibbs, I respectfully solicit a call from all who wish to obtain a good Likeness of themselves or friends, before purchasing elsewhere.  Having employed one of the best artist in America, I deem it unnecessary to say more than guarantee satisfaction, or no charge.  Respectfully, J. Thos. Smith                                                                           

The third advertisement ran on April 15 & 16, 1859.  Photographs, Ivorytypes, Ambrotypes and Melaneotypes.  The above styles Pictures can be obtained at Corinthian Hall, (Gibbs’ old stand) of the best quality.  Particular attention is called to copying old Daguerreotypes by the Photographic process.  J. Thos Smith.

P. S.—One of the best Artists employed.

Prices Low.                                                                                                                

The first announcement appeared on April 16, 1859.  To The Public.—Having purchased the Gallery of Mr. P. E. Gibbs, in Corinthian Hall, I respectfully announced to my friends, and the public generally, that I am prepared to make every style of Picture pertaining to the art.

I have in my employ a No. 1 Operator.  Particular attention paid to copying old pictures by the Photographic or Ambrotype process.  They can be enlarged to life size, if desired.  J. Thos Smith.

The fourth advertisement ran on April 19 & 20, 1859.  Photographs, Ambrotypes, Ivorytypes and Melainotypes can now be had, of surpassing beauty, at Corinthian Hall, Gibbs Oud Stand.  J. T. S.                                                    

The fifth advertisement ran from April 20 to 26, 1859.  Pictures, Pictures—All kinds of pictures know in the art taken at Corinthian Hall—Gibbs’ Old Gallery.  Photographs colored in Oil, Water, Pastel, Crayon, Indian Ink.  Particular attention called to enlarging old Daguerreotypes by the Photographic process.  Pictures of deceased persons and invalids at their residence.  I warrant my pictures not to be surpassed by any in America.  Call and examine for yourselves.  J. Thos Smith.

P. S.—Master workman employed.                                                                          

The sixth advertisement ran from April 27 & 28, 1859.  Pictures, Pictures—All kinds of pictures know in the art taken at Corinthian Hall—Gibbs’ Old Gallery.  Photographs colored in Oil, Water, Pastel, Crayon, Indian Ink.  Particular attention called to enlarging old Daguerreotypes by the Photographic process.  Pictures of deceased persons and invalids at their residence.  I warrant my pictures not to be surpassed by any in America.  Call and examine for yourselves.  J. Thos Smith.

P. S.—Master workman employed.                                                              

The seventh advertisement ran from May 2 to 6, 1859.  To Strangers And Citizens Of Richmond—Attention Asked To Gibbs’s Old Gallery, Corinthian Hall.—Sphereotypes, a glass picture; something entirely new, and finished in a style not known to any one outside of this gallery.  Come and see them.  Photographs colored in oil, pastel and water.  Ambrotypes and Melaneotypes, at low prices.  Any one in want of a good picture of themselves or friends, will find it to their interest to call and examine specimens before purchasing elsewhere.  Entire satisfaction or no charge.  Respectfully, J. Thos Smith.         

The eighth advertisement appeared on May 16, 1859.  Smith’s Gallery, Corinthian Hall!  Smith’s Gallery, Corinthian Hall! 

See his new style picture, Sphereotype.

See His Photographs, Corinthian Hall.

See his double glass Ambrotypes, and all pictures known in the art.  Gibbs’ old stand.

See Ladd & Webster’s Sewing Machines in operation.

Pictures and Machines warranted to please, or no sale.                                                        

The second announcement appeared on May 17, 1859.  We have longed wished for some one to make genuine Double Glass Ambrotypes for 50 cents, and we understand that Mr. Smith, successor to Mr. P. E. Gibbs, Corinthian Hall , intends making them; and, if he does, we should patronize him.  He is well known to the most of us, and understands his business thoroughly.  We have seen several specimens of his work, and we have no hesitation in saying that he is making some of the finest Ambrotypes in this city.

Go and see them and judge for yourselves.  Many Friends.                         

The ninth advertisement ran on July 25 & 26, 1859.  I am now making a very superior style of Ambrotypes, and invite the ladies to give me a call, feeling assured that no other picture has ever been invented that will surpass it in beauty of tone and finish.  Those that have seen them pronounce them to be superior to anything they have ever seen.

Children’s Pictures made in one second, and warranted to please.  A call is solicited from my friends and the public generally.  Respectfully, J. Thos. Smith.                         

The tenth advertisement ran on August 5 & 6, 1859. 

Pictures, Pictures—Superior Ambrotypes. 

See them and be convinced. 

They are not to be excelled.

They speak for themselves.

Come and see them at

Smith’s Gallery.

They are made on the first floor,

And no two pair stems to climb.

They are pronounced the best by all who see them.                                                  

The eleventh advertisement ran on August 10 & 11, 1859.  Photographs And Ambrotypes.—I am prepared to make Photographs as low as they can be made in the Northern cities—of the best quality, in gilt frames, $1.50.  Artists employed for each branch of the business.  My Ambrotypes are pronounced superior by all who have seen them; the eyes are perfect, and face not chalky-white; made with or without shades, just to suite the purchasers.

Smith’s Gallery, Between 9th and 10th sts.                                                                 

The third announcement appeared on August 11, 1859.  I saw yesterday some of the finest Ambrotypes my eyes ever [upheld.]  They were made at Mr. Smith’s Gallery of a family from the South.  He deserves credit for his Pictures.  If you wish to see a fine Ambrotype, of the Picture, look on his center table.  He told me they were of his own make, and made in the last two weeks.  His prices are reasonable.  A. H.                  

The twelfth advertisement ran on August 12 & 13, 1859.  Between 9th and 10th Streets, Corinthian Hall—Smith’s Ambrotype And Photographic Gallery.—Superior Ambrotypes—see them and judge for yourself.—They are pronounced the best by all who see them.   Prices low.  Made with or without shades, as the person may fancy.

The thirteenth advertisement ran on August 27 & 29, 1859.  The Fine Art Gallery of Mr. J. Thos. Smith, having been thoroughly repaired, is again open for the reception of visitors.  He is making some of the finest Ambrotypes ever exhibited to the Richmond people.  We should see them and judge for ourselves.  They cannot be surpassed.  His prices are low.  He keeps every kind of case; also, frames of all kinds.             

The fourteenth advertisement ran October 13 & 14, 1859.

1859 October 13.  The Daily Dispatch.  (Richmond, Virginia.)  October 13, 1859, Vol. XVI, No. 89, P. 2.

Crowded, Crowded.—

Every Day, Every Day.

Smith’s Gallery. Smith’s Gallery.

Always Crowded. Always Crowded.

Smith’s Gallery. Smith’s Gallery.

Best Ambrotypes And Photographs. Best Ambrotypes And Photographs.

Low Prices. Low Prices.

All Made Satisfactory, All Made Satisfactory,

Or No Charge. Or No Charge.

Best Artists Employed. Best Artists Employed.

Smith’s Gallery. Smith’s Gallery.

Corinthian Hall. Corinthian Hall.

Smith employs more artists than any other house, and makes the best Ambrotypes cheaper than any one else.

His Gallery is all the time full of visitors. 

Smith’s Gallery, Corinthian Hall.  Two Rooms In Operation.  oc. 12.

The fifteenth advertisement ran from December 6 to 8, 1859.  Ladies And Gentlemen Of Southern Principals.—Having returned home from Charleston.  I offer my personal services to those who wish to obtain Photographs or Ambrotypes of themselves or friends at the most reasonable terms, guaranteeing satisfaction, or no charge.  Best operators employed.  J. Thomas Smith, Corinthian Hall.                                                     

J. Thomas Smith is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry as being active in Richmond, Virginia in 1859-1860.


[1] Craig’s Daguerreian Registry.

Eugene M. Sintzenich

1857                Address Unknown, Rochester, New York.

1859                Crystal Palace Block, Main Street, Rochester, New York.

1859                Rooms over the Post Office, Brockport, New York.

Eugene M. Sintzenich was recorded in one entry in The New York Historical Society Dictionary of Artists in America 1564 –1860, and two advertisements in The Brockport Republic (Brockport, New York.)  The entry in for 1857 comes from the Rochester City Directory.  (Rochester, New York.).[1]  Eugene M. Sintzenich, Daguerreotypist, business address not recorded.

The first advertisement ran from May 13 to 27, 1859.  New Ambrotype Gallery!  E. M. Sintzenich.  From the old established Gallery of L. V. Griffin, Rochester, (where he has had nearly six years experience in the art of producing Camera Pictures,) has established himself in this village Directly over the Post Office, for the purpose of accommodating the citizens of the place and the surrounding country with First Class Pictures! Of Every Description.

He does not hesitate in saying that he can produce as good work as can be made at any Gallery in the State, and as cheap as the cheapest.

All are invited to call and examine specimens.  All work warranted.

Remember the place, Brockport, May 4, 1859.

The second advertisement ran from June 30 to September 15, 1859.1859 June 30.  Ambrotype Gallery, Directory Over The Post Office.  E. M. Sintzenich, after six years experience in the art of producing Camera Pictures, does not hesitate to say that he can furnish as good work, at as low a rate and can be procured at any other Gallery, and would respectfully solicit the patronage of the inhabitants of the village and vicinity.  All work warranted.  Call and examine specimens.  Brockport, June 30, 1859.

Eugene H. (Sic.) Sintzenich is recorded in Craig’s Daguerreian Registry under Eugene Sintzenich “Listed as a daguerreian in Rochester, N. Y.  He opened his gallery in 1841, and closed it in 1842.  He was noted for his oil paintings.  Probably the same Eugene H. Sintzenich listed as a daguerreian in Rochester in 1857-1858.  He was than listed at 79½ Main Street.   

Both The New York Historical Society Dictionary Of Artists in America 1564-1860 and the above advertisements identify him as E. M. Sintzenich, they are probably the same person.  Eugene possibly the father was a landscape and portrait painter he was English by birth, and died of Cholera on Wednesday September 22, 1852, he was 60 years old.


[1] The New York Historical Society’s Dictionary Of Artists In America 1864-1860.